Buffalo Tofu Wings are a fun, spicy twist on a classic favorite. Crispy tofu pieces get tossed in a tangy, zesty buffalo sauce that gives them a perfect kick without any meat. They’re crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them a super satisfying snack or appetizer.
I love making these wings because they’re easy to whip up and always a hit, whether you’re just craving something flavorful or hosting friends. The buffalo sauce clings so nicely to the tofu, and pairing it with some cool ranch or blue cheese dip just takes it to the next level. Plus, they’re lighter than traditional wings but don’t skimp on taste.
My favorite way to enjoy Buffalo Tofu Wings is alongside some celery sticks and a cold drink for a game day or casual get-together. I think they’re great for anyone who wants that spicy wing experience but wants to keep things plant-based. Give them a try—you might be surprised how much you love this twist!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tofu: Extra-firm tofu works best because it holds shape during cooking. Press it well to remove water—this helps it get crispy. If you can’t find extra-firm, firm tofu is okay but press longer.
Flour and Plant Milk: All-purpose flour and almond or soy milk create a simple coating base. Use gluten-free flour and oat or rice milk for gluten-free or different flavors.
Panko Breadcrumbs: They give a great crunch. If you don’t have panko, use crushed cornflakes or regular breadcrumbs as a substitute.
Buffalo Sauce: Classic hot sauce like Frank’s RedHot pairs well with vegan butter for that spicy, tangy flavor. You can swap with other hot sauces you like. Maple syrup balances heat with a touch of sweetness.
How Can You Make Tofu Crispy Like Real Wings?
Getting tofu crispy is key for these “wings.” Here’s my process:
- Press tofu for 20-30 minutes to remove moisture.
- Cut into strips so each piece crisps evenly.
- Use a three-step dip: flour & spices, plant milk, then panko. This creates a thick, crunchy coat.
- Brush or spray lightly with oil for extra browning.
- Bake at 425°F or air-fry until golden, flipping once halfway through.
These steps help the tofu get that satisfying crunch without deep frying.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet or air fryer basket – I like my baking sheet because it cooks evenly and lets excess moisture escape.
- Pressing weight or heavy books – helps remove water from the tofu for better crispiness.
- Three shallow bowls or plates – for flour, plant-based milk, and breadcrumbs to coat the tofu properly.
- Mixing spoon or tongs – makes tossing the tofu in sauce easier and mess-free.
- Cooling rack (optional) – for letting the cooked tofu wings sit for a few minutes to stay crispy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use different hot sauces like sriracha or spicy mango for a flavor twist.
- Add a splash of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the flour mix for extra heat or smoky taste.
- Stir in chopped green onions or cilantro into the buffalo sauce for fresh flavor.
- Serve with sliced cucumbers or carrot sticks instead of celery for a different crunch and freshness.
Buffalo Tofu Wings Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tofu Wings:
- 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (such as almond or soy)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for air frying or baking)
For the Buffalo Sauce:
- 1/3 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
- 2 tbsp vegan butter or margarine
- 1 tsp maple syrup or agave nectar (optional for slight sweetness)
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
For Garnish and Serving:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, finely chopped
- Vegan ranch or blue cheese dip
- Celery sticks (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, around 25-30 minutes to bake or 15-20 minutes to air fry, plus 20-30 minutes for pressing the tofu. Altogether, plan for about 50-60 minutes including pressing time to get perfectly crispy Buffalo Tofu Wings.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Pressing and Preparing the Tofu:
Wrap your tofu block in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top to press out excess moisture. Leave it for 20-30 minutes. After pressing, cut the tofu into elongated strips about 1 inch thick—these will be your “wings.”
2. Setting Up the Coating Station:
Prepare three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, mix the flour with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Pour the plant-based milk into the second bowl. Fill the third bowl with panko breadcrumbs. This three-step dipping process will give your tofu a nice crispy coating.
3. Coating the Tofu:
Dip each tofu strip first into the seasoned flour mixture, then into the plant milk, and finally coat it thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs. Lay the coated tofu pieces on a baking sheet or in your air fryer basket.
4. Cooking the Tofu Wings:
Brush or lightly spray the tofu strips with olive oil to help them crisp up. If baking, place them in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and crunchy. If using an air fryer, cook at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.
5. Making the Buffalo Sauce:
While the tofu cooks, melt the vegan butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in the hot sauce, garlic powder, and maple syrup (if using). Warm the sauce through, then set aside.
6. Tossing and Serving:
Once the tofu wings are cooked, transfer them into a large bowl. Gently toss them with the buffalo sauce until all pieces are well-coated. Arrange on a serving dish, garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro, and serve immediately with vegan ranch or blue cheese dip and celery sticks on the side.
Enjoy your spicy, crispy Buffalo Tofu Wings, a delicious and satisfying plant-based snack or appetizer!
Can I Use Frozen Tofu for Buffalo Tofu Wings?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the tofu in the fridge overnight or under cold running water. After thawing, press out as much moisture as possible before proceeding with the recipe.
How Do I Store Leftover Buffalo Tofu Wings?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake at 375°F for about 10 minutes or air-fry for a few minutes to re-crisp the coating.
Can I Make These Wings Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and bake the tofu wings ahead, then toss them in buffalo sauce just before serving. Keep the cooked wings in the fridge for up to 2 days before saucing.
What Can I Substitute for Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes work well too. They provide a nice crunch, though panko is preferred for its lighter texture.
