Crispy Baked Flour Tortilla Chips
There’s something wonderfully satisfying about the crunch of a chip, especially when it’s made at home with love and creativity. Crispy Baked Flour Tortilla Chips are not only easy to prepare but also customizable to suit your taste buds. Whether you crave savory or sweet, these chips are the perfect snack for parties, movie nights, or simply satisfying a craving. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that transforms simple flour tortillas into irresistible, crunchy chips!
Why Cooks Rave About It
Homemade tortilla chips are a game changer. They are fresher, healthier, and far more flavorful than store-bought options. You control the ingredients, the seasonings, and the crunch level. Cooks rave about this recipe because it is versatile; you can create a variety of flavors from savory to sweet, making it an ideal snack for any occasion. Plus, they’re baked, not fried, which means less guilt and more enjoyment!
The Ingredient Lineup
To make these crispy baked flour tortilla chips, gather the following ingredients:
- 6- to 8-inch flour tortillas: The base of your chips, offering a soft interior and crispy exterior when baked.
- Olive or vegetable oil: Use for savory chips. This adds richness and helps the chips become crispy.
- Melted butter: Ideal for sweet chips, lending a buttery flavor and additional crunch.
- Spices and seasonings: Customize your chips with your favorite flavors.
- Sea Salt: Essential for seasoning, enhancing all the flavors.
- Italian Herbs and grated Parmigiano Reggiano: A savory blend of thyme, oregano, rosemary, and basil for an Italian twist.
- Za’atar Seasoning: A Middle Eastern spice blend that includes sumac, sesame seeds, cumin, thyme, oregano, and marjoram, adding a unique flavor profile.
- Hungarian Paprika, Sea Salt, and Garlic Powder: For a smoky, savory kick.
- Cinnamon Sugar: A mixture of 1/4 cup granulated sugar with 1-1/2 to 3 teaspoons ground cinnamon for a sweet option.
What’s in the Gear List
Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following gear on hand:
- Baking Sheet: A large, flat surface for baking the chips evenly.
- Parchment Paper: Optional, but it helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Brush: For evenly applying oil or melted butter.
- Sharp Knife or Pizza Cutter: To cut the tortillas into triangles.
- Mixing Bowl: For combining seasonings or sugar mixtures.
- Cooling Rack: Optional, for cooling your chips to maintain their crispiness.
Stepwise Method: Crispy Baked Flour Tortilla Chips
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your chips will bake evenly and become perfectly crispy.
Step 2: Prepare the Tortillas
Take your flour tortillas and stack them. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice them into triangles or desired shapes. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Season the Tortillas
In a mixing bowl, combine your choice of seasonings. For savory chips, mix olive or vegetable oil with your preferred spices like Italian herbs, za’atar, or garlic powder. For sweet chips, melt the butter and stir in the cinnamon sugar mix.
Step 4: Coat the Chips
Place the tortilla triangles in a large bowl and drizzle the oil or melted butter mixture over them. Toss until all pieces are well coated. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy texture!
Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Spread the coated tortilla triangles in a single layer on a baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding to ensure they crisp up nicely.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the chips are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, as baking times can vary depending on your oven.
Step 7: Cool and Season
Once baked, remove the chips from the oven and immediately sprinkle with sea salt and any additional seasonings. Let them cool on a cooling rack for a few minutes to maintain their crispiness.
Nutrition-Minded Tweaks
If you’re looking to make your crispy baked flour tortilla chips a bit healthier, consider these options:
- Use whole wheat flour tortillas for added fiber and nutrients.
- Opt for less oil or butter to reduce calories; you can use a spray bottle for a light misting instead.
- Experiment with spices instead of salt to add flavor without the sodium.
- Try a blend of spices like smoked paprika or chili powder for added depth without extra calories.
Little Things that Matter
- Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking for the best results.
- Store leftover chips in an airtight container to keep them crispy for longer.
- Feel free to experiment with different spice blends to find your perfect flavor combination.
- For sweet chips, consider drizzling a bit of honey or agave syrup after baking for an extra touch of sweetness.
Save for Later: Storage Tips
To keep your crispy baked flour tortilla chips fresh and crunchy, follow these storage tips:
Allow the chips to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. Avoid refrigerating them, as this can lead to sogginess. They can be stored at room temperature for up to a week, although they’re best enjoyed fresh!
Ask the Chef
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Absolutely! Corn tortillas will give you a different flavor and texture, but they are equally delicious. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as corn tortillas may crisp up faster.
What if I don’t have any spices on hand?
No problem! You can simply use sea salt, or even just bake the chips plain. They’ll still have a pleasant flavor, and you can add dips or toppings for extra taste.
Can I use these chips for dipping?
Definitely! These crispy baked flour tortilla chips are perfect for dipping. Pair them with salsa, guacamole, or your favorite cheese dip for a delightful snack.
How can I make these chips spicier?
If you enjoy a kick, sprinkle some cayenne pepper or chili powder into your seasoning mix. You can also serve the chips with a spicy dip to heat things up!
Time to Try It
Now that you have the recipe for these Crispy Baked Flour Tortilla Chips, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking. Whether you opt for a savory blend of herbs or a sweet cinnamon sugar coating, these chips are sure to become a favorite in your household. The process is simple and rewarding, making them a perfect addition to any gathering or just a cozy night in. Don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family; they’ll be asking for your secret recipe in no time!
Enjoy the satisfaction of making your own crispy baked flour tortilla chips, and let your creativity shine with every batch!
Crispy Baked Flour Tortilla Chips
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
- Stack the flour tortillas and slice them into triangles or desired shapes for uniform cooking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive or vegetable oil with spices for savory chips, or melt the butter and stir in cinnamon sugar for sweet chips.
- Drizzle the oil or melted butter mixture over the tortilla triangles and toss until well coated.
- Spread the coated tortilla triangles in a single layer on a baking sheet to avoid overcrowding.
- Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Remove from oven, sprinkle with sea salt and any additional seasonings, and let cool on a cooling rack.
Notes
- Ensure the oven is fully preheated for the best results.
- Store leftover chips in an airtight container to keep them crispy.
- Experiment with different spice blends for unique flavors.
- For sweet chips, drizzle honey or agave syrup after baking.
