Crispy Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets with Sticky BBQ Maple Glaze

Crispy Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets made from extra-firm tofu and air-fried to perfection. Coated in a smoky BBQ maple glaze that's sweet, sticky, and full of flavor.

Try these delicious tofu recipes? Check out my Tofu Bacon & Buffalo Tofu Wings!

We all know tofu gets a bad rap. People either love it, fear it, or stare at it in confusion. They act like it's some mystery block from outer space.

But, if you've ever wanted to turn tofu into something crispy, sticky, and finger-lickin' good, this is your recipe.

These Crispy Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets are everything chicken nuggets wish they could be. Crunchy on the outside, meaty on the inside, and tossed in a smoky-sweet BBQ maple glaze.

They’ll have you licking your fingers and questioning everything you know about life.

Oh, and did I mention they're oil-free, WFPB, and made with simple ingredients? Because eating healthy shouldn't feel like punishment. It should taste like a Saturday night with no guilt.

Ingredients you’ll need 

Find the complete recipe with measurements in the recipe card below. 

For the tofu nuggets:

• Extra-firm or super-firm tofu, drained and pressed
• Chickpea flour (or whole-grain flour)
• Nutritional yeast
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Smoked paprika
• Pinch salt & black pepper

For the BBQ maple glaze:

• Plant-based BBQ sauce (use your favorite brand)
• Pure maple syrup

Optional:

• Extra glaze or your favorite dipping sauce (vegan honey mustard, buffalo sauce, or smoky barbecue sauce)
• Sides: roasted green beans, salad, or a pile of sweet potato fries

How to make crispy air fryer tofu nuggets

You don't need to overthink this. It's tofu, not rocket science.

Start by pressing your block of tofu. You don’t need a tofu press, but they are a fantastic little tool. If you don’t have a press, wrap the tofu block up in paper towels, set something heavy on top, and let it sit for at least ten minutes. (The dryer it is, the crispier it gets.)

Next, cut or tear (my preference) the tofu block into nugget-sized cubes and toss those little guys into a bowl with the chickpea flour and seasonings. Shake it around or use your hands to mix it. Just be sure that all the tofu pieces are evenly coated.

Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C) and spread the tofu out in a single layer in the basket. Don't pile them up unless you're into soft, sad nuggets.

Cook for about 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through until they're golden brown and crispy.

Tip: Since every air fryer is different, your cooking time may vary. So watch it. I’ve learned the hard way what happens when you don’t.

While that's happening, mix your BBQ sauce and maple syrup in a bowl. When the tofu's done, toss it in the glaze until it's sticky and shiny and smells like pure joy.

That's it. You're officially a tofu magician. Serve with extra sauce because… why wouldn't you?

Recipe notes & variations

• Gluten-Free? Chickpea flour works perfectly and adds a slight nuttiness.
• Want More Crunch? Add a spoonful of gluten-free breadcrumbs or panko to your dry mix.
• Add Spice: A sprinkle of cayenne or smoked paprika turns this into smoky BBQ perfection.
• Flavor Swap: Try tossing in vegan buffalo sauce or honey-mustard glaze instead of BBQ.

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Frequently asked questions