Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Close-up of crispy tofu nuggets with a dipping sauce on a plate

Crispy Tofu Nuggets (Best Ever, Easy, Extra Crunchy)


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Donald Anderson
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

These crispy tofu nuggets are battered and baked until golden brown, creating the perfect crunchy texture. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for an irresistible vegan snack.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Tofu Nuggets:

  • 1 block extra-firm tofu (14 ounces), drained and pressed

  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1/2 cup unsweetened plant milk (like almond or oat milk)

  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)

For the Dipping Sauce (optional):

  • 1/4 cup ketchup

  • 1 tablespoon sriracha (optional for spice)

  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce

  • 1 teaspoon maple syrup


Instructions

  • Prep the tofu. Cut tofu into bite-sized nugget pieces, about 1 to 1 1/2 inches each. Place the tofu pieces on a paper towel-lined plate to remove any excess moisture.

  • Prepare the flour mixture. In a shallow bowl, whisk together flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

  • Prepare the wet mixture. In another bowl, pour the plant milk.

  • Prepare the breadcrumbs. In a third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.

  • Coat the tofu. Dip each tofu piece into the flour mixture, then into the plant milk, and finally coat it in the panko breadcrumbs. Ensure the tofu is fully covered with breadcrumbs.

  • Bake. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the coated tofu pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Lightly brush the tofu with olive oil. Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tofu is golden and crispy on all sides.

  • Make the dipping sauce. While the tofu bakes, combine ketchup, sriracha (if using), soy sauce, and maple syrup in a small bowl.

 

  • Serve. Once the tofu nuggets are done baking, serve them hot with your dipping sauce.

Notes

  • For extra crunch: You can double-coat the tofu by repeating the flour, milk, and breadcrumb steps.

  • Air fryer option: Air fry at 375°F for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway through.

  • Make-ahead: You can prep the tofu nuggets and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking.

 

  • Vegan option: This recipe is already vegan-friendly!

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Snack/Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Vegan