How many carbs are in a big flour tortilla? A complete nutritional guide

December 1, 2025 •

4 min read

A standard 10-inch burrito-sized flour tortilla typically contains between 34 and 37 grams of total carbohydrates. This number can vary significantly depending on the tortilla's exact size, brand, and ingredients. For many, understanding how many carbs are in a big flour tortilla is crucial for managing daily intake.

Quick Summary

A large, burrito-sized flour tortilla contains approximately 34 to 37 grams of carbohydrates. This amount can change based on the brand, size, and type of flour used, with whole wheat and low-carb versions offering different nutritional profiles.

Key Points

Standard Carb Range: A large, burrito-sized flour tortilla typically contains 34 to 37 grams of total carbohydrates.
Size Matters: A tortilla's size directly impacts its carb count, with larger 10-12 inch varieties having significantly more than smaller ones.
Whole Wheat is a Healthier Choice: Whole wheat tortillas offer more dietary fiber and a lower glycemic index compared to white flour versions.
Corn vs. Flour: Corn tortillas are usually smaller and have fewer calories and carbs than flour tortillas, but they are less durable.
Low-Carb Alternatives: For a keto diet or reduced carb intake, options like tortillas made from almond or coconut flour are available and significantly lower in net carbs.
Check the Label: Always verify the nutrition facts on the package, as carb counts can vary between brands due to differences in ingredients and formulation.

The Standard Carb Count for a Large Flour Tortilla

The carbohydrate content of a large flour tortilla is not a single, fixed number but rather a range influenced by its dimensions and brand formulation. For example, a typical 10-inch, burrito-sized flour tortilla from a major brand like Mission or a generic store brand often contains between 34g and 37g of total carbohydrates. A larger, 'giant' 12-inch tortilla can push the total carb count even higher, sometimes exceeding 50g per serving. When assessing your dietary intake, it is vital to check the nutritional information on the specific package you purchase, as discrepancies between brands are common.

Net Carbs vs. Total Carbs

When reading a nutrition label, you will notice both 'total carbohydrates' and 'dietary fiber'. The term 'net carbs' refers to the total carbohydrates minus the dietary fiber, as fiber is a type of carbohydrate that your body cannot digest. For those on low-carb or ketogenic diets, the net carb count is the more relevant metric. While a large flour tortilla typically has only 1-2g of fiber, its net carb count remains high, unlike some specialty low-carb or homemade versions.

Factors Influencing Tortilla Carbohydrate Content

Several factors can alter the number of carbohydrates in a large flour tortilla. Being aware of these can help you make a more precise dietary assessment.

Size: As a primary determinant, the diameter and thickness of the tortilla directly correlate with its carb content. A larger surface area and a thicker product naturally require more flour, increasing the overall carbohydrate count.
Ingredients: The type of flour is paramount. A tortilla made with enriched white flour will have a different nutritional profile than one made with whole wheat flour, which contains more fiber and micronutrients. The presence of added sugars in some recipes can also slightly increase the total carb count.
Brand Formulation: Each manufacturer has a unique recipe that can affect the carb, calorie, and fat composition. Some brands may include more preservatives, additives, or different types of fats (like lard or vegetable shortening), which can alter the final nutritional values.

Comparing Carbohydrates in Different Tortilla Types

For those managing their carb intake, it's helpful to compare a traditional large flour tortilla with other options available on the market.


Tortilla Type	Approx. Size	Typical Carb Count	Key Nutritional Difference
White Flour (Large)	10-12 inches	34-58g	High in refined carbs, low in fiber
Whole Wheat (Large)	10-12 inches	30-45g	Higher fiber, lower glycemic index
Corn (Standard)	5-6 inches	10-15g (per small tortilla)	Lower in calories and carbs, less sturdy
Low-Carb/Keto	8-10 inches	4-10g Net Carbs	Made with alternative flours (almond, coconut)

White Flour vs. Whole Wheat Tortillas

Whole wheat tortillas are generally considered a healthier alternative to their white flour counterparts. They typically contain a higher amount of dietary fiber, which can aid digestion and help manage blood sugar levels more effectively. Although their total carbohydrate count may be comparable, the added fiber in whole wheat tortillas means they have a lower glycemic index, preventing the sharp blood sugar spikes associated with refined white flour.

Flour vs. Corn Tortillas

Corn tortillas are a traditional and often smaller alternative to flour tortillas. A standard small corn tortilla has significantly fewer calories and carbohydrates than even a medium-sized flour tortilla. While this makes them a better choice for calorie or carb restriction, their size and composition make them less durable and more likely to break when overfilled.

Low-Carb Alternatives for Tortilla Lovers

Dietary needs or health goals may require exploring alternatives to traditional flour tortillas. The market now offers several options tailored for low-carb lifestyles.

Low-Carb Tortillas: Many brands produce tortillas specifically designed for reduced carbohydrate intake. These are often made with a mix of alternative flours and added fiber to provide a texture similar to regular tortillas with significantly fewer net carbs.
Almond or Coconut Flour Tortillas: For those who prefer a more natural, homemade option, almond flour and coconut flour tortillas are popular keto-friendly recipes. These are naturally gluten-free and very low in carbohydrates, though their texture and pliability can differ from traditional versions.
Lettuce Wraps: For a fresh, low-carb alternative, large lettuce leaves can be used as a wrap. This is a zero-carb option that provides a satisfying crunch and freshness to any filling.

How to Choose the Healthiest Tortilla

Selecting the best tortilla depends on your specific health goals. When comparing products, consider the following:

Check the Ingredients List: Look for whole grains and minimal additives. The first ingredient on the list should be 'whole wheat flour' if you are seeking a healthier whole-grain option.
Examine the Serving Size: The nutritional facts are based on a specific serving size, which is usually one tortilla. Since 'large' can be subjective, compare the grams per serving listed on the package to gauge the actual size and carb count accurately.
Compare Fiber Content: Higher fiber content can mitigate the impact of carbohydrates on blood sugar. When comparing options, look for the highest fiber count possible.
Consider Sodium: Tortillas can be high in sodium, with some containing a significant percentage of your daily recommended intake. Check the label and opt for lower-sodium versions if necessary.

Conclusion: Making Informed Tortilla Choices

Knowing how many carbs are in a big flour tortilla is the first step toward making a healthier dietary choice. A standard large tortilla contains a significant number of carbohydrates, but the nutritional landscape of tortillas is broad. By exploring whole wheat, corn, and specialty low-carb alternatives, you can find a suitable option that aligns with your health and dietary needs. Remember to always check the nutrition label, compare the size and ingredients, and prioritize options with higher fiber content. With this knowledge, you can continue to enjoy your favorite Mexican dishes while staying on track with your nutritional goals.

For more information on understanding nutrition labels, consult the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

A large whole wheat tortilla generally has a slightly lower total carbohydrate count and a higher fiber count compared to a large white flour tortilla. The higher fiber content results in a lower glycemic index, making it a healthier option.

For someone with diabetes, the impact of tortillas depends on the type and portion size. Standard flour tortillas are carb-rich and can cause blood sugar spikes. However, whole-grain or low-carb tortillas have a lower glycemic index and a lesser effect, making them a better choice in moderation.

Net carbs are total carbohydrates minus fiber. Since a large flour tortilla typically contains only 1-2 grams of fiber, the net carb count is very similar to the total carb count, usually around 33-35 grams.

Good low-carb substitutes include commercially available low-carb tortillas made with alternative flours, homemade tortillas using ingredients like almond or coconut flour, or using large lettuce leaves as wraps.

No, the carb count can vary between brands and is directly related to the tortilla's size and ingredients. A 10-inch tortilla will have fewer carbs than a 12-inch one, and ingredient mixes also differ between manufacturers.

Low-carb tortillas, especially those made with alternative flours like almond or psyllium husk, can be more delicate. To prevent breaking, use a non-stick pan, avoid overheating, and for homemade versions, ensure the dough is well-hydrated and rolled thinly.

Yes, many brands offer high-fiber tortillas. Look for products labeled "whole wheat" or "high fiber" and check the nutrition panel. These versions use more whole grains, significantly boosting the fiber content.