Buffalo Tofu Wings

These crispy buffalo tofu wings are the perfect plant-based alternative to traditional wings—bold, spicy, and so satisfying. They’re baked (not fried!) for a lighter, healthier twist without sacrificing flavor or crunch. Whether you're craving a game-day snack or a fun meatless dinner idea, this buffalo tofu recipe is a must-try!

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It's a must-make.

These spicy, crispy buffalo tofu bites check all the boxes for a delicious, healthy, and satisfying snack or meal—and here’s why:

• Crispy and crave-worthy: the baked buffalo tofu coating stays crunchy outside and tender inside.
• Loaded with bold, tangy flavor: every bite delivers that classic spicy buffalo kick.
• Meatless magic: a satisfying, protein-rich alternative that tastes indulgent but fits your plant-based goals.
• Totally customizable: go gluten-free, toss with extra buffalo sauce, or throw them in the air fryer for max crisp.

Let’s talk texture and flavor.

One bite of these crispy buffalo tofu wings and you're hooked. The outside is shatteringly crisp, thanks to a coating of seasoned bread crumbs. The inside? Creamy, tender, and perfectly seasoned from the extra firm tofu. Then comes the kicker: a spicy buffalo sauce made with hot sauce, lemon, and melted vegan butter that coats every bite in zippy flavor. Dip into a cool vegan ranch or classic bleu cheese dressing for that perfect hot-meets-cool combo.

What you'll need.

Here's what you’ll need to make these delicious buffalo tofu nuggets happen:

For the wings:

• Extra Firm Tofu: you can also use super firm if you want to skip the pressing part- either hold the best shape and crisps nicely.
• Cornstarch: helps keep the tofu extra dry and gives the breading something to cling to.
• Milk: any milk of your choice works- we used plant-based milk to keep the recipe plant-based.
• Standard Bread Crumbs: the key ingredient to give these their signature crispy buffalo "wing" texture. You can use panko breadcrumbs, but I feel it's almost too textured.
• Oil Spray: used to help get that perfectly brown color and crispiness.
• Seasonings: poultry seasoning, celery salt, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper.

For the sauce:

• Optional: buy a bottle from the store instead of making your own.
• Hot Sauce: any spice level of your choice will do!
• Vegan Butter: this recipe is vegan, which is why we used vegan butter; if you aren't, you can use regular butter.
• Lemon Juice: freshly squeezed is best for flavor, but you can use store-bought if it's easier.
• Optional Sweetener: maple syrup or agave nectar. If not vegan, you can use honey.

Customize it your way.

Want to mix it up? Try adding or swapping a few ingredients to make this buffalo tofu recipe your own:

• Add garlic powder or smoked paprika to the breadcrumb mix for extra flavor.
• Add a tablespoon of nutritional yeast to the coating mixture for a subtle cheesy vibe.
• Add a pinch of cayenne to the sauce for even more heat.
• If you're making your own sauce, swap the agave or maple syrup with a bit of brown sugar for a deeper sweetness.
• Top with chopped fresh herbs or green onions for a bright finish and freshness.
• Use barbecue sauce instead of buffalo sauce for a smoky, sweet variation.

Flexible dietary swaps.

Here are some healthy alternatives for this buffalo tofu recipe:

• Gluten Free: use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Dairy Free: stick with plant-based milk (any kind), and pair with vegan ranch or dairy-free bleu cheese dressing.
• Low Carb: skip the panko bread crumbs and use almond flour instead! It may have less crunch, but it still works! Also, use a sugar-free or low-carb hot sauce and omit or swap the sweetener with a sugar substitute.

How to make this buffalo tofu recipe.

Here's what you’ll need to make these delicious buffalo tofu nuggets happen:

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Prep tofu

Press the tofu and tear into pieces with your hands.

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Coating

Put cornstarch in a bowl, milk into another bowl, and then mix the bread crumb mixture in a third bowl.

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Dip "wings"

Dip each wing into the starch, then milk, and lastly the breadcrumb mixture. Place on prepared baking sheet.

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Bake

Bake in an air fryer or oven, flipping halfway, until crispy and golden brown. Serve immediately.

How to serve them.

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These crispy buffalo tofu bites are seriously versatile—you can serve them up a dozen different ways, whether you're snacking or making dinner fun.

• Fresh out of the oven with vegan ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing.
• Served with carrot and celery sticks for a game-day platter.
• On top of a salad or grain bowl for a protein boost.
• Tucked in lettuce wraps with a drizzle of ranch or buffalo sauce.

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