Buffalo Tofu Wings are a spicy, crispy, and flavorful twist on classic buffalo wings—perfect for anyone looking to enjoy that fiery buffalo sauce without the chicken. These wings have the satisfying crunch on the outside and a tender, chewy inside, all thanks to perfectly cooked tofu. The sauce is bold and tangy, with just the right amount of heat to get your taste buds buzzing.
I love making these because they’re such a fun way to change up a game day snack or a casual dinner. I usually toss the tofu pieces in a little cornstarch before baking to get that extra crispy outside, then drown them in the buffalo sauce. It’s such a great combo that even my meat-eating friends end up asking for seconds! Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak some plant-based protein into the meal.
When I serve Buffalo Tofu Wings, I like pairing them with crunchy celery sticks and a cool, creamy dip like ranch or blue cheese to balance out the heat. They’re easy to eat with your hands, making them a great appetizer for gatherings or a flavorful treat after a long day. Give it a try—you might find yourself reaching for these wings more often than the traditional kind!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Extra-firm tofu: This is the star of the dish. Pressing removes extra water to help it crisp up better. If you can’t find extra-firm, press firm tofu longer or freeze and thaw it to improve texture.
Panko breadcrumbs: These give great crunch. You can swap with crushed cornflakes or regular breadcrumbs, but panko is best for light crispiness.
Buffalo sauce: Use your favorite store-bought version or make your own with hot sauce and vegan butter. Adjust heat level to suit your taste.
Plant-based milk: Unsweetened options like almond or soy work well to help the coating stick without adding sweetness.
Vegan butter: Melted butter blends with buffalo sauce for that classic wing flavor. If you want lower fat, just use extra buffalo sauce.
How Do I Get Crispy Tofu Wings Without Frying?
Baking tofu crisp takes a few key steps:
- Press the tofu well to remove excess water—this helps it hold the coating and get crispy in the oven.
- Coat tofu first in a seasoned flour mix, then dip in plant milk, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs. This triple step locks in crunch.
- Arrange wings spaced apart on a baking sheet lined with parchment for airflow, and bake at a hot 400°F (200°C).
- Flip once halfway through to crisp both sides evenly.
- Finish by tossing the baked tofu in buffalo sauce, then bake again briefly to set the sauce without losing crispiness.
Following these tricks gives you that satisfying crunch and spicy buffalo flavor without deep frying, making it a healthier and less messy option!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone mat – To ensure your tofu bakes crispy and evenly without sticking.
- Mixing bowls (3) – One for the flour, one for the plant-based milk, and one for the panko breadcrumbs; helps keep the coating organized.
- Sharp knife – To cut the pressed tofu into wing-shaped strips easily and accurately.
- Spatula or tongs – For flipping tofu during baking and tossing it in buffalo sauce without breaking pieces.
- Measuring cups and spoons – To measure the flour, breadcrumbs, and sauces precisely for best results.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Switch the buffalo sauce with sriracha or hot sauce mixed with vegan mayo for a different spicy flavor.
- Add a dash of turmeric or curry powder to the breadcrumb coating for extra spice and color.
- Include chopped bell peppers or thinly sliced carrots in the coating for added crunch and freshness.
- Use smoked paprika or cayenne pepper in the flour mix to enhance smoky or spicy notes according to your taste.
How to Make Buffalo Tofu Wings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Tofu Wings:
- 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and drained
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened plant-based milk (such as almond or soy)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For The Buffalo Sauce:
- 1 cup buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons vegan butter or margarine, melted
For Garnish and Serving:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onions
- Optional: Ranch or blue cheese vegan dressing for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 35-40 minutes of baking. In total, plan about 50-55 minutes from start to finish to get those crispy, saucy buffalo tofu wings ready to enjoy.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Tofu:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking. Cut the pressed tofu into “wing” shapes — rectangular strips about 1 inch thick.
2. Make the Coating Stations:
In a shallow bowl, mix the all-purpose flour with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Pour the plant-based milk into a second shallow bowl. Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third shallow bowl.
3. Coat the Tofu:
Take each tofu strip and dip it first into the flour mixture, making sure it’s evenly coated. Then dip it into the plant milk, and finally coat it thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently so they stick well. Arrange the coated tofu pieces on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Bake the Tofu Wings:
Bake the tofu wings in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Flip them halfway through baking to ensure they become crisp and golden on both sides.
5. Prepare the Buffalo Sauce:
While the tofu bakes, mix the buffalo sauce and melted vegan butter in a bowl until combined.
6. Toss in Sauce and Finish Baking:
Once the tofu wings are baked and crispy, gently toss them in the buffalo sauce mixture until fully coated. Place the sauced wings back onto the baking sheet and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes to let the sauce set.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the buffalo tofu wings from the oven and sprinkle with chopped fresh chives or green onions. Serve immediately with your favorite ranch or blue cheese vegan dressing and some crunchy celery sticks for the perfect match.
Can I Use Frozen Tofu for Buffalo Tofu Wings?
Yes! Frozen tofu works great because it becomes extra chewy when thawed. Just thaw it completely in the fridge, then press out any excess water before cutting and coating.
How Can I Make These Wings Gluten-Free?
Simply swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. This will keep the coating crispy without gluten.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover tofu wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a hot oven or toaster oven to maintain crispiness instead of microwaving.
Can I Make the Buffalo Sauce from Scratch?
Absolutely! Mix hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot) with melted vegan butter for a classic buffalo flavor. Adjust the ratio depending on how spicy or buttery you want it.