The best tortilla press will have you making tasty tortillas in no time. Making your own means that you can create healthier tortillas for quesadillas, taquitos, enchiladas and more.
Feel like experimenting with parmesan and garlic tortillas? You can when you make your own.
You will be able to control the ingredients and the flavor. Overprocessed tortillas from the supermarket have lots of fillers and preservatives so they’re less healthy and tasty.
Contents
Manual vs. Machine Pressing
Tortilla presses lets you make your own tortillas by placing a ball of corn dough between two metal or wooden plates. It was invented by 1911 in Mexico though Mexicans have made tortillas for thousands of years by hand. Depending on the tortilla press you choose, you may need to use wax paper or cling wrap to prevent the newly formed tortilla from sticking to the press.
On the other hand, you could try to do what very experienced tortilla makers do…press out your tortilla by hand. Unless you have spent hundreds of hours perfecting this skill, a corn tortilla press allows you to make uniform, thin tortillas without the experience. Plus, it is a lot faster than flattening them by hand.
Tortilla Presses Comparison Table
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Our Reviews of the Best Tortilla Presses
Tortilla presses can all look the same from a passing glance. Nearly all have two flat circular plates that turn balls of dough into flat tortillas. Despite these similarities, tortilla presses do vary. To make the process easier, we created this list so you know what to look out for when you decide to buy.
Manual tortilla press
1. Best Pick-Victoria TOR-003 8
The simple design and high-quality materials make the Victoria our choice for the best cast iron tortilla press.
This three generation family owned company has a long history of cast iron manufacturing going back to 1936. The workmanship and quality of the metal are well-known.
Cast-iron is known for being one of the best metals to cook with. It heats evenly and is extremely durable when cared for properly.
That is why many cast iron cookware pieces are passed down through families. If used and taken care of properly, they can be your most reliable cookware.
This press is great for not only making tortillas from scratch but also other great foods such as: empanadas, tostones, arepas, flat breads, dumplings and patacones.
Key Details
This tortilla maker measures 9.5 x 8 x 2.5 inches and weights 8.2 pounds. It has a simple design comprised of two squeezing plates, a hinge, and a lever. The heavyweight construction translates into less effort along with more consistency when you’re pressing.
To use it, you put the tortilla dough in between the plates. Then, fold the handle over the top plate and apply pressure.
The strength of the cast iron makes it more durable. Its weight helps you with even and easy pressing.
There are few moving or non-cast iron parts in this tortilla press thereby making it extremely strong. However, it needs to be cared for properly. Cleaning is easy. You just hand wash, dry and rub with cooking oil.
This press comes pre-seasoned with high-grade 100% Non-GMO flaxseed oil so that you can start using it right away. Lastly, it comes with a limited lifetime warranty for manufacturing defects.
Pros
- Pre-seasoned with flaxseed oil for immediate use.
- Heavy-duty cast iron construction.
- Lifetime limited warranty for any manufacturing defects.
Cons
- Very heavy.
- Difficult to adjust the thickness of tortillas.
- No padding on the bottom to prevent possible scratched counters.
2. Uno Casa 8
The Uno Casa Press offers good value in terms of production quality and ease of use. It comes pre-seasoned so you can use it immediately.
This means that a layer of oil is baked onto the tortilla press in the factory under the supervision of highly-skilled experts. Therefore, you can use your press as soon as you take it out of the box.
Its FDA approved heavy-duty cast iron construction and non-stick press surface make creating tortillas and other foods simple and easy.
Key Details
It measures 9.8 x 7.9 x 2 inches and weighs 7.45 pounds. This press also comes with useful items. An extra hinge pin is included for the handle which can be removed for easy cleaning. To clean this press, you simply hand wash and dry it. Then you rub it with cooking oil.
This spare pin can come in handy in case anything happens to your first pin. Uno Casa also includes 100 pieces of parchment paper which is used when making tortillas so you get the best results.
Additionally, they also include a recipe ebook. It contains lots of recipes for items including tortillas, mini pie shells, tostones, empanadas and more.
It’s very helpful in getting you started making delicious tortillas and other foods right away. Lastly, it comes with a 30 day return policy.
Pros
- Pre-seasoned for immediate use.
- Free recipe ebook & 100 pieces of parchment paper included.
- High-grade cast-iron construction.
Cons
- Heavy design.
- 30 day return policy.
- Detailed cast-iron care needs.
3. Vivicreate Cast Iron Tortilla Press
Lodhi is an affordable option for anyone just getting into making tortillas at home. It has the same basic features as other tortilla presses and is a reliable choice.
Working with a tortilla press requires a stable base and solid construction since you have to push down on the press for it to work. The quality of the craftsmanship makes a substantial difference.
Lodhi’s Press is designed for stability and durability. It has a wide, flat base to make it more stable and to provide a flat uniform press. The added weight from a cast iron body also keeps it from sliding or wobbling as you press down.
Key Details
This press measures 10.8 x 9.5 x 2.3 inches and weighs 7.35 pounds. It’s traditionally designed for even and effortless pressing. The handle is designed to make pressing easier as well. It’s very long so it gives you more leverage.
This press is ideal for use on both flour and corn tortillas. In addition to tortillas, you can easily make arepas, dumplings, tostones, empanadas and more.
Cleaning is simple. You just hand wash and dry. Then, you coat the press with any type of cooking oil.
Lastly, there are no warranty details for this press. You should contact the manufacturer directly for more information.
Pros
- Traditionally designed for simple and effortless pressing.
- Affordable with essential features.
- Uniform pressing makes even tortillas.
Cons
- Must be oiled after cleaning.
- Tortillas are thicker than some may like.
- No warranty.
4. Eleganceinlife 7.3” Cast Iron Tortilla Press
The Eleganceinlife 7.3” cast iron tortilla press makes smaller tortillas than the traditional 8″ size most people are used to. This press is made from heavy-duty commercial restaurant grade cast iron that’s ideal for even pressing.
The width of the pressing surface alongside the amount of dough used determine how wide your tortillas will be. This press makes smaller tortillas since it has a smaller pressing surface.
While most home cooks prefer them in the traditional eight-inch range, smaller tortillas can be ideal in many situations. They’re perfect for making lighter meals, kids meals or even snacks.
Key Details
This smaller tortilla press measures 13 x 9.5 x 2.7 and weighs 4.81 pounds. It’s great for making tortillas, patacones, tostones, empanadas, arepas and more.
The amount of weight along with the craftsmanship of the tortilla press will determine how thick your tortillas will be. It is also pretty easy to vary the thickness of the tortillas.
By adding more pressure when you press, you can make them thinner. This press works well with recipes that call for thinner, flatter tortillas.
Cleaning this press is not difficult. You handwash it in warm, soapy water. Once it’s dried, you coat the press with cooking oil. Lastly, warranty information, if any, is difficult to find. You should contact the manufacturer directly.
Pros
- Commercial-grade cast iron construction.
- Smaller surface ideal for making lighter meals and snacks.
- Good value at a reasonable price.
Cons
- Makes 7.3-inch tortillas rather than the traditional 8″.
- No warranty.
- Handle can feel loose.
5. Best Budget Pick - Fox Run Tortilla Press
The majority of tortilla presses seem to be made out of cast iron but it is not the only reliable option. The Fox Run is made entirely of cast aluminum which has an attractive metallic finish.
The benefit of aluminum is that it is both durable and light weight. For a home cook, it is a great option because you can easily store and retrieve your tortilla press.
It’s light, compact and highly portable. So it’s a good choice for not only making tortillas at home but for taking to family fiestas or pot lucks that you’re cooking at.
Key Details
This press measures 7 x 2 x 7.2 inches and weighs 1.35 pounds. So it’s a smaller press with just a 6″ diameter.
However, another benefit of this cast aluminum press is that it is corrosion-resistant so it does not rust. This makes it easier to care for over time. If used properly, it should last just as long as a cast iron press.
The Fox Run is also oven safe up to temperatures of 350 degrees. You can handwash it in warm, soapy water for easy cleaning afterwards. Lastly, there is no warranty on this press. If you have any questions, you should contact the manufacturer directly.
Pros
- Lighter weight than cast iron and rust-resistant.
- Attractive metal finish.
- Easy to carry and store.
Cons
- Handles less pressure than cast iron presses.
- 6″ diameter makes smaller tortillas than some might prefer.
- No warranty.
6. Tortillada Cast Iron Tortilla Press
The Mexican Kitchen gives you a very simply designed press with no frills or extra features. It focuses on having the most streamlined design so that it is easy to use and provides good performance.
It removes the extended base in favor of sitting the pressing plate directly on the counter. This adds more stability as the plate cannot bend at all when being pressed. It also reduces the overall amount of cast iron used in the construction process which reduces its overall weight.
Cast iron must be seasoned with oil before being used. However, this press comes pre-seasoned for added convenience. Therefore, you can start using it right away.
Key Details
This press measures 12 x 12 x 7 inches and weighs 6 pounds. It’s perfect for making tortillas, tostones, arepas, empanadas and more.
The great feature about this press is that it’s dishwasher safe. So it’s very convenient and time saving. You don’t have to worry about the hassle of washing it by hand.
This press does not come with a warranty. You should contact the manufacturer with any questions or concerns.
Pros
- Pre-seasoned to save you time.
- Durable cast iron construction.
- Dishwasher safe.
Cons
- Plates held together by a screw.
- Handle may feel short.
- No warranty.
7. Bruntmor 7” Cast Iron Tortilla Press
The Bruntmor tortilla press is 7 inches in diameter and comes pre-seasoned. You can use it immediately so there’s no delay in cooking your favorite Mexican meals.
Cast iron is one of the sturdiest metals that cookware is constructed from. While it offers high durability and heat resistance, cast iron is noticeably heavy. So Bruntmor reduced the amount of cast iron used in its design.
The weight of this press is lower than larger presses. However, it is still sturdy and stable for effortless and even tortilla pressing.
Key Details
It measures 9.2 x 9.1 x 1.9 inches and weighs 5.44 pounds. It’s ideal for not only tortilla pressing but also for making dumplings, empanadas, tostones, mini pie shells and more.
Combined with its overall smaller dimensions, it is much easier to maneuver and store this press in a home kitchen. That makes it a good choice for anyone that has trouble lifting appliances or has limited storage space. In addition, you can easily clean this press with a damp or dry cloth.
The Bruntmor does not come with any warranty. If you have further questions, you can reach out to the manufacturer.
Pros
- Lighter weight cast-iron design for better maneuverability.
- Comes pre-seasoned.
- Affordable price.
Cons
- Makes smaller sized tortillas than some may prefer.
- The handle may not be comfortable for long-term use.
- No warranty.
Tortilla Press Buyer’s Guide
There are a lot of companies that sell tortilla presses but the quality and design of those presses vary widely.
Mexican tortilla press and dry corn
The best tortilla presses have a combination of features that make them easy to use and maintain while giving you the quality of tortilla that you desire. There are many features that can affect the quality of your tortilla press and how long it will last. Stores often carry a few different models but their selection may not cover all of the available options.
When you’re shopping for a tortilla press, there are several features listed below to consider.
How to Select the Right Tortilla Press
Tortilla presses can elevate your cooking by giving you control over how your tortillas are prepared, feel, and taste. However, they can vary widely in terms of construction quality, features, and overall value.
The key to finding the right tortilla press is knowing what features to look for. Below are some things to consider.
Key Features
The overall design of a tortilla press is simple yet effective. That is why the design has stayed consistent over the years. Despite having a simple design, there are certain features that make each tortilla press stand apart from others. Every taco press offers value in its own right because of its unique set of features.
Construction Material
Tortilla presses are mostly made out of hard, heat-resistant material. Therefore, the press has the ability to handle hot tortilla mix safely, and prevents it from cracking or breaking under pressure.
The material that the press is made out of can determine how well tortillas are formed. Tortilla presses generally come in wood, cast iron and cast aluminum.
Wood
A wooden tortilla press tends to be larger but lighter than their metal counterparts. Although sturdy, a wood tortilla press is more sensitive to temperature and pressure when forming tortillas. Wooden tortilla makers are also likely to experience problems like warping or rusted joints over time.
Cast Aluminum
Cast aluminum presses offer the strength and durability of cast iron but with a weight closer to a wood press. They are very light and resistant to rust or breaking. However, the lower weight of aluminum presses means that you will have to put a little more effort into pressing tortillas.
Cast Iron
Cast iron tortilla presses are heavy but smaller than wooden ones. Cast iron presses handle heat and pressure exceptionally well making them a very reliable option. The added weight also means that it takes less strength to press tortillas.
However, cast iron has specific care instructions. It is also prone to rust which can ruin a press if not handled properly.
Although it may seem difficult to care for a cast iron press, it is surprisingly easy. Take a look at the video below on how to care for cast iron cookware.
Weight
The weight of a tortilla press is determined by its size, construction material, and design. Cast iron tends to be the heaviest while wood and aluminum presses are much lighter depending on their design.
Heavy presses make pressing tortillas easier since the heavier lid puts more pressure into the dough. They can also be harder to move and store easily.
Size/Shape
Most tortilla presses are made with a large, circular pressing area and a lever system to press it shut. Most follow a generally round shape, but some have a larger square body that creates round tortillas.
The size of the pressing area determines how large your tortillas will be. Additionally, the size of the press determines how much storage space you need.
Restrictions on Use
Every tortilla press comes with a set of use restrictions based on its design. For example, the shape and size of a press determines where you can use and store it. In other cases, the material that each press is made of determines how much pressure it can handle, or how you care for it.
Cast Iron Considerations
Cast iron tortilla presses are often heavy and require diligent cleaning to make sure that they don’t rust. Cast iron will rust if it stays wet for too long.
Unfinished cast iron must also be seasoned before use so that it works properly. Your cast iron tortilla press can make cooking more enjoyable, but will likely need the most care.
Details on Cast Aluminum
Cast aluminum presses should not be put in the dishwasher. They should be washed in warm, soapy water with some vinegar to remove oils from the manufacturing process. To condition the cast aluminum, vegetable oil should be wiped onto its cooking surface any time you notice food starting to stick.
Key points regarding Wood
Wood tortilla presses also have cleaning and use restrictions. If exposed to moisture for too long, they begin to warp. This can lead to bending and cracking when under pressure.
The metal hinges and screws can also rust if not used and cleaned properly. Wood presses also have the lowest tolerance for pressure and should be used with a limited amount of pressure.
Coating/Finish
Since tortilla presses have metal components, these components come with a coating or finishing coat on them. This helps to protect the press from damage and offers some protection against heat and moisture. Choosing different coatings and finishes is mostly an aesthetic choice and will only affect the maintenance of the press, not the performance.
Silver Finish
Some presses have a silver paint finish. This paint is food-safe and is often applied by hand.
It gives the press a polished and attractive look. The paint never touches your tortillas if you follow the right set of instructions.
Powder Coating
Another option is a powder coating. It is applied by running opposing electric charges through the press and the powder so that the powder bonds to the press. This process results in a smoother, more refined finish which is more durable.
Light or No Finish
There are some presses that come without a finish or have a very light protective sealing finish applied. This makes the press look simpler and more old-fashioned.
However, it comes with more intensive care instructions since the press must stay relatively dry at all times. This is especially true of cast iron presses since cast iron will rust if left wet.
Pressing Method (Manual or Electric)
While the majority of tortilla presses are manual presses (you do the pressing), there are models that are electrical. An electric tortilla press makes it easier for you to make large numbers of tortillas.
You won’t have to put in a lot of physical effort to form them. The tortilla press will do all of the pressing work for you while you just have to load and unload it.
Electric tortilla presses can be helpful but they do have drawbacks. The most prominent one is the need for electricity.
You can only use it in a limited space that has an appropriate electrical outlet. On the other hand, manual tortilla presses can be used anywhere and at any time. However, they can be more strenuous to use for large batches of tortillas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which tortilla press should you buy?
A: It all comes down to individual preferences. However, our best pick is the Victoria TOR-003. It’s a high quality press that’s durably constructed from cast iron.
It comes pre-seasoned with flaxseed oil that’s 100% Non-GMO so you can start using it right away. It can make a wide variety of foods in addition to tortillas such as: patacones, dumplings, flat breads, empanadas, arepas and more. Lastly, it has a limited lifetime warranty for any defects related to manufacturing.
Q: Can you make flour tortillas with a home tortilla press?
A: Yes, you can. You can also make a paleo tortilla with coconut and almond flour. Since a tortilla press simply presses a ball of dough into a circle, most types of dough will work with a tortilla press.
Q: How do you maintain a tortilla press?
A: The maintenance needs of your tortilla press depend on the materials that it is made out of. Cast-iron must be seasoned (unless you buy a pre-seasoned tortilla press) before using it. It cannot stay wet for long or it will rust.
Wood presses must be kept dry since they are prone to warping. Aluminum and wood presses are both susceptible to breaking when put under too much pressure.
To care for your tortilla press properly, the best thing that you can do is follow the instructions in the owner’s manual. Clean your press regularly, do not submerge it in water, and store it in a cool and dry place. These tips should help your tortilla press last longer no matter what it is made out of.
Q: What else can you make with a tortilla press?
A: Tortilla presses are designed to press dough into a flat shape. So you can make any kind of wrapper for your food such as: wonton wrappers, dumpling wrappers, enchiladas, empanadas along with flat breads, arepas and tostones. You can even change the thickness of your wraps by varying the amount of pressure you apply with the press.
Q: What does pre-seasoning cast iron mean?
A: It is a simple process where vegetable oil is applied over the cast iron to create a seal that prevents rusting. It prepares the iron to be heated before it comes in contact with your food.
Cast iron is a porous metal. Its surface has tiny holes in it that can let moisture in. To use it without ruining the surface of your cast iron or before heating it, you have to seal these holes with the curing/seasoning method. This will keep food and moisture out of your cast iron and prevent it from rusting.
To cure/season cast iron, most cast iron cookware is thoroughly cleaned with soap and water. Then, vegetable oil, shortening, or soybean oil is evenly applied over the cast iron surface.
The appliance is then baked in the oven for up to an hour at a relatively low temperature. This process heats the oil to make a smooth seal over the cast iron surface.
Q: Do tortilla presses come with a warranty?
A: It depends. They can come with a warranty depending on the company that makes them. The warranty often covers manufacturing defects.
Conclusion
Tortilla presses can be very useful for home cooking, especially if you like to make a variety of wrapped foods. There are many options to choose from that can give you a high-quality experience.
Each press on our list offers its own unique value. They can make cooking tortillas and other foods a fun and enjoyable experience.
Whether you are looking for an upscale model like our best pick, the Victoria TOR-003, or a budget model like the Uno Casa, you can find one that meets your needs on our list.
We hope that after reading our detailed reviews and comprehensive buying guide, you’ll have all the information you need to select the best tortilla press that is perfect for your kitchen.
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