Easy Lime and Cumin Baked Tortilla Chips: Crispy, Healthy Homemade Snack

Crispy Homemade Baked Tortilla Chips with Lime and Cumin

Making your own tortilla chips at home is not only incredibly easy but results in a crispier, fresher, and more flavorful snack than anything you’ll find in a bag. These oven-baked corn chips have a delightful zingy lime and cumin flavor that makes them the perfect companion for your favorite dips.

Why You’ll Love These Homemade Tortilla Chips

• Healthier option – Baked instead of fried with minimal oil
• Customizable flavors – Adjust seasonings to your preference
• Budget-friendly – More affordable than premium store-bought chips
• Fresher taste – No preservatives or artificial ingredients
• Perfect texture – Crispy edges with just the right amount of crunch

Key Ingredients for Perfect Tortilla Chips

• 1 (12 ounce) package corn tortillas
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Baking sheets
• Pastry brush (for oil)
• Sharp knife or pizza cutter
• Small bowl (for mixing seasonings)

How to Make Baked Tortilla Chips from Scratch

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line 2-3 baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them.
2. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil and lime juice. In another bowl, mix the cumin, garlic powder, and salt.
3. Stack 4-6 corn tortillas at a time and cut the stack into 6 or 8 triangular wedges (like a pizza).
4. Arrange the tortilla triangles in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets, making sure they don’t overlap.
5. Lightly brush the tops of the triangles with the oil-lime mixture, then sprinkle with the seasoning blend.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, rotating the pans halfway through cooking time, until the chips are crisp and the edges begin to turn golden brown.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool for about 5 minutes – they’ll continue to crisp up as they cool.
8. Serve warm or at room temperature with your favorite dips.

Pro Tips for the Best Homemade Tortilla Chips

• Use stale tortillas – Day-old tortillas actually work better as they have less moisture.
• Watch carefully while baking – Chips can go from perfectly golden to burnt very quickly!
• Experiment with flavors – Try chili powder, smoked paprika, or nutritional yeast for different taste profiles.
• Store properly – Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days, though they’re best enjoyed fresh.
• Oil application – Use a spray bottle for more even, lighter oil distribution if you’re watching calories.

Perfect Dipping Companions

These homemade tortilla chips pair wonderfully with:

• Fresh homemade salsa
• Chunky guacamole
• Creamy bean dip
• Zesty queso
• Tangy Greek yogurt dip

Nutrition Information

Each serving of these baked tortilla chips contains approximately:

• 74 calories
• 13g carbohydrates
• 2g protein
• 2g fat
• 2g fiber
• 177mg sodium

Common Questions About Homemade Tortilla Chips

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
Yes, but they’ll have a different texture and flavor. Corn tortillas are traditional for authentic Mexican-style tortilla chips.

How do I make them extra crispy?
For maximum crispiness, make sure your tortillas are completely dry before baking, and let them cool completely on the baking sheet.

Can I make these in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Air fry at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking time.

Why are my tortilla chips chewy instead of crispy?
This usually happens when the tortillas have too much moisture or when they’re baked at too low a temperature. Try drying out your tortillas first or increasing your oven temperature slightly.

Why Homemade Tortilla Chips Are Always Worth The Effort

There’s something incredibly satisfying about making your own tortilla chips at home. Not only do you control the ingredients and flavors, but you also get to enjoy them fresh out of the oven – a warm, crispy experience that store-bought chips simply can’t match. Whether you’re preparing for a family movie night, hosting a game day gathering, or just craving a healthier snack option, these homemade tortilla chips will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Recipe inspired by AllRecipes