Do I really need to press the tofu?

Yes, unless it's Super Firm Tofu. Removing excess moisture makes a huge difference. It’s the secret to getting that crispy air fryer tofu nugget texture.

Can I bake these instead of air frying?

Absolutely. Bake on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 400°F for about 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What kind of BBQ sauce works best?

Whatever you love! I like smoky, molasses-based sauces, but go with your favorite brand from the grocery store or make your own with soy sauce, tomato paste, and maple syrup.

Can I make a large batch?

Yes! Just air fry in batches to keep that crispy texture. Remember, single layer!

Crispy Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets with Sticky BBQ Maple Glaze

Recipe by Shane Martin

Total Time24 minutes
Yield2-3 servings 1x
DietVegan

These crispy vegan air fryer tofu nuggets are tossed in a sweet and smoky BBQ maple glaze, making them the ultimate oil-free comfort food. Made with simple ingredients, packed with flavor, and ready in under 25 minutes. It’s the perfect easy weeknight dinner, snack, or party appetizer.

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 2 reviews

Ingredients

Scale

1 (14 oz) extra-firm or super-firm tofu, drained & pressed
2 Tbsp of chickpea flour
1 tsp of nutritional yeast
1 tsp of garlic powder
1 tsp of onion powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Pinch salt & pepper
3 Tbsp of plant-based BBQ sauce
1 Tbsp pure maple syrup

Instructions

Drain and press tofu 10–15 minutes to remove excess water. Cut or tear into 1-inch pieces.
In a bowl, whisk chickpea flour, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Toss the tofu cubes in the dry mix until they are evenly coated.
Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (195°C). Place the tofu in a single layer and cook for 12–14 minutes, shaking halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Mix BBQ sauce and maple syrup in a bowl. Add cooked tofu and toss gently to coat.
Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce or extra glaze.
Optional: Top with chopped green onion or sesame seed for extra crunch.

Notes

Press your tofu: Removing extra moisture helps it crisp up perfectly in the air fryer.
Don’t crowd the basket: Cook in a single layer for the best golden crunch.
Every air fryer’s different: Start checking around 10 minutes so you don’t overcook.
Make it your own: Add smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.
Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; re-crisp in the air fryer before serving.

Nutrition

Serving Size: about 1 cup
Calories: 231
Sugar: 12.3 g
Sodium: 151 mg
Fat: 8.7 g
Carbohydrates: 20.4 g
Fiber: 3.7 g
Protein: 17.9 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 14 minutes
Category: Appetizers, Main
Method: Air Fryer
Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://shaneandsimple.com/crispy-air-fryer-tofu-nuggets-bbq-maple/