Wake up to the golden aroma of these Andean Sunrise Cheese-Filled Tortillas, a fluffy and satisfying South American bread perfect for breakfast or a savory snack. These easy-to-make tortillas combine simple flour and water dough with a gooey cheese center, pan-cooked until puffed and lightly crisped. Each bite delivers a comforting blend of mild cheese and warm, pillowy bread—ideal for sharing around the table or as a grab-and-go treat.
Top Tip
For the best melt and flavor, use a combination of mozzarella and a sharp South American cheese like queso fresco or cotija.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup warm water (plus more as needed)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
For the Filling
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese
For Cooking
- 2 tbsp butter or oil, for the skillet
Steps
- In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Add warm water and oil, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
- Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 3-5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rest 10 minutes.
- Divide dough into 8 equal balls. Flatten each into a 4-inch round with your hands or a rolling pin.
- Mix mozzarella and queso fresco in a small bowl. Place about 2 tablespoons of cheese mixture in the center of each round.
- Fold dough edges over filling and pinch to seal. Gently flatten each filled ball into a 5-inch disc, being careful not to tear the dough.
- Heat butter or oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook tortillas in batches, 2-3 minutes per side, until golden and puffed.
- Transfer to a plate and cover with a towel to keep warm. Serve hot, optionally with salsa or avocado.
Nutrition
- Calories: 270
- Protein: 9g
- Net Carbs: 35g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
Tips
- Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or chopped herbs to the cheese for extra flavor.
- These tortillas freeze well—just reheat in a dry skillet to restore their crispness.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely! Any good melting cheese like Monterey Jack, cheddar, or even a vegan cheese substitute will work.
Cooking for one?
I wrote a short, practical guide on building simple, low-waste meals for one person — without batch cooking or stress.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes—use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but you may need to adjust the water amount slightly.
How do I keep the cheese from leaking out?
Make sure to pinch the dough edges tightly and avoid overfilling. If any cheese escapes during cooking, just wipe out the skillet before the next batch.