These Sourdough Butter Tortillas are soft, warm, and packed with buttery goodness! They are easy to make and perfect for wrapping up your favorite fillings.
Honestly, I could eat these on their own. Just slather with a bit more butter and you’ve got a lovely snack! They’re a great way to use leftover sourdough starter too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Starter: Use an active sourdough starter for the best flavor. If you don’t have one, a mix of equal parts flour and water and let it sit for at least 12 hours can work as a quick replacement. Just remember that the taste won’t be quite the same!
All-Purpose Flour: While all-purpose flour is ideal, feel free to use whole wheat flour or even gluten-free flour blends. Just keep in mind that the texture may change; whole wheat will be denser while gluten-free may require adjustment in liquid.
Butter: Unsalted butter adds the right creaminess and flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using olive oil or coconut oil. Each will bring a unique taste to your tortillas.
Warm Water: You can add more or less water depending on how your dough feels. If your climate is particularly dry or humid, adjust the water amount to make sure the dough is soft and pliable.
How Do You Knead Dough for the Right Texture?
Kneading the dough properly is crucial to achieving a soft and elastic texture. The goal is to develop the gluten, which helps create a flexible tortilla. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a floured surface and place your dough in the center.
- Use your palms to push the dough down and away from you, then fold it back over itself.
- Turn the dough a quarter turn and repeat this process for about 5-7 minutes.
- If it feels sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as you knead.
Take your time! Proper kneading leads to deliciously soft tortillas that you’ll enjoy.

How to Make Sourdough Butter Tortillas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Tortillas:
- 1 cup sourdough starter (active)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for rolling
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for cooking and serving)
- 1/2 cup warm water (adjust as necessary)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and mixing, plus an additional 30-60 minutes for resting. Overall, you can have your delicious sourdough butter tortillas ready in about 1 hour and 15 minutes, including cooking time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the active sourdough starter, all-purpose flour, and salt. Use a spoon or spatula to stir everything together until well combined.
2. Adding Wet Ingredients:
Gradually add the melted butter and warm water to the flour mixture. Mix as you go, until a soft dough starts to form. If the mixture looks too dry, add a little more water, a spoonful at a time, until it feels right.
3. Kneading the Dough:
Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If it’s sticking to your hands, sprinkle a little more flour. If it feels too dry, use a teaspoon of water to adjust.
4. Letting It Rest:
Place the kneaded dough back in the bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and leave it at room temperature for 30-60 minutes. This resting period allows it to ferment slightly, making it easier to roll out.
5. Shaping the Tortillas:
After resting, divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball. On a floured surface, gently flatten each ball and roll it out into a thin circle, about 6-8 inches in diameter.
6. Cooking the Tortillas:
Heat a dry skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Cook each tortilla one at a time for about 1-2 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready when brown spots appear and the tortilla puffs up a little.
7. Finishing Touches:
As soon as you take a tortilla off the skillet, brush it lightly with melted butter to keep it soft and tasty. Stack the cooked tortillas on a plate and cover with a clean kitchen towel to keep warm.
8. Serving:
Serve your warm tortillas with an extra pat of butter if desired. Enjoy the unique flavor of your soft and slightly tangy sourdough butter tortillas!
Can I Use a Different Type of Flour?
Yes! While all-purpose flour works best, you can substitute it with whole wheat flour for a heartier option, or a gluten-free blend if you’re avoiding gluten. Just keep in mind that adjustments in water may be necessary for different flour types.
What Should I Do If My Dough is Too Sticky or Too Dry?
If your dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour while kneading until it feels manageable. If it’s too dry, gradually add water, a teaspoon at a time, until you reach the desired soft consistency.
How Should I Store Leftover Tortillas?
Store any leftover tortillas in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. They can last in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on a skillet for a few seconds on each side.
Can I Use Cold Sourdough Starter?
It’s best to use an active sourdough starter at room temperature for optimal results. If your starter has been refrigerated, let it sit out for a few hours to warm up and become active before using it in the recipe.



