These crispy baked buffalo tofu bites have become a staple in my kitchen for busy weeknights and casual gatherings. The method is straightforward, and the results are always satisfying—crunchy on the outside, tender inside, and packed with bold flavor.

I love serving these bites as a snack with celery and carrot sticks, or piled onto a salad for a spicy protein boost. The aroma of hot sauce and garlic fills the kitchen, and the crisp coating gives way to a chewy, hearty center.

What makes this recipe special is how easy it is to adapt and how reliably it delivers on texture. Whether I’m making them for a game day spread or a quick dinner, these tofu bites are always a hit with both vegetarians and meat-eaters at my table.

Quick Facts

Why You’ll Love It

If you crave the tangy heat of buffalo wings but want a plant-based option, these tofu bites deliver. They’re easy to make, satisfyingly crispy, and perfect for dunking in your favorite sauce.

• Crispy texture without frying
• Bold buffalo flavor in every bite
• Great for snacks, salads, or wraps
• Simple, pantry-friendly ingredients
• Customizable heat level
• Kid- and crowd-friendly

Ingredients

This recipe uses extra-firm tofu for the best texture, plus a handful of pantry staples. Cornstarch and panko make the coating crisp, while buffalo sauce brings the signature heat. Adjust the hot sauce to your taste, and feel free to use your favorite dipping sauce on the side.

• 1 (14-ounce) block extra-firm tofu
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup buffalo hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
• 2 tablespoons melted vegan butter or regular butter
• Optional: chopped parsley or chives, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

For best results, press the tofu to remove excess moisture before coating. The process is simple: toss, bake, then coat in buffalo sauce. Serve immediately for maximum crispness.

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Press the tofu for at least 10 minutes to remove excess water. Pat dry and cut into 1-inch cubes.
3. In a large bowl, toss tofu cubes with cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the tofu and toss again to coat.
5. Add panko breadcrumbs and gently toss until tofu cubes are well coated.
6. Arrange tofu in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
7. While tofu bakes, whisk together buffalo sauce and melted butter in a large bowl.
8. When tofu is done, immediately transfer to the bowl with buffalo sauce. Toss gently to coat.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or chives if desired.

Chef Tips

A few simple tricks help ensure the crispiest, most flavorful tofu bites every time. Don’t skip pressing the tofu, and bake until deeply golden for best results.

• Press tofu thoroughly for best texture.
• Use parchment for easy cleanup and even browning.
• Flip tofu halfway for even crispiness.
• Toss in buffalo sauce right before serving.
• Let tofu cool slightly before tossing to keep coating intact.

Substitutions

You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your pantry or preferences. The main ingredients are flexible, and the flavor can be adjusted to your liking.

• Use arrowroot or potato starch instead of cornstarch.
• Gluten-free panko works well for a GF version.
• Swap buffalo sauce for BBQ or teriyaki for a different flavor.
• Replace vegan butter with regular butter or neutral oil.
• Try firm tofu if extra-firm isn’t available (press longer).

Storage & Reheating

These tofu bites are best fresh, but leftovers can be stored for quick snacks or salads. Reheat to restore some crispness.

• Store cooled bites in an airtight container in the fridge up to 3 days.
• Reheat in a 400°F oven or air fryer for 8–10 minutes to crisp up.
• Microwaving works but won’t retain crispiness.
• Toss with extra buffalo sauce after reheating if needed.

Perfect Pairings

I like to serve these bites with cooling sides and crisp drinks. They’re also great as a protein topping or in wraps for a simple meal.

• Classic celery and carrot sticks with ranch or blue cheese dip
• Crisp green salad with creamy dressing
• Soft sandwich rolls or wraps with slaw
• Dry Riesling or a hoppy IPA

FAQs

A few common questions come up when making crispy baked tofu. Here are my answers to help you get the best results every time.

Nutritional Note

Nutrition will vary based on brands and portion size, but each serving is a good source of plant-based protein and contains moderate fat from oil and butter.