If you’ve ever tried baking tofu and ended up with something soggy, bland, or rubbery — you’re not alone. But when done right, baked tofu can be crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor.
In this guide, you’ll learn the exact method for making perfectly crispy baked tofu every time — plus tips for seasoning, storing, and using it in your meals.
Why Bake Tofu?
- Healthier than frying — no excess oil needed
- Hands-off cooking method — just toss and bake
- Great for meal prep — bake a batch and use it all week
- Super versatile — works with any flavor profile
Step-by-Step: How to Bake Crispy Tofu
🧾 Ingredients:
- 1 block extra-firm tofu
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch or arrowroot powder
- Optional: garlic powder, smoked paprika, chili flakes, black pepper
Step 1: Press the Tofu
This is essential. Pressing removes excess moisture, which is the key to crispiness.
How to press tofu:
- Wrap the block in a clean towel or paper towels
- Place a heavy object (like a skillet or cookbook) on top
- Let sit for at least 20–30 minutes
Or use a tofu press if you have one.
Step 2: Cut the Tofu
Cut into bite-sized cubes or rectangles — the more surface area, the crispier they’ll get.
Tip: Avoid very thin slices, which can dry out too much.
Step 3: Season and Coat
In a bowl, gently toss the tofu with:
- Olive oil
- Soy sauce (for flavor and salt)
- Cornstarch (this is what makes it crispy!)
Add your favorite spices or keep it neutral for later seasoning.
Step 4: Spread on a Baking Sheet
Line a baking tray with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
Arrange tofu in a single layer, making sure the pieces aren’t touching. Crowding traps steam and makes them soggy.
Step 5: Bake
- Temperature: 200°C / 400°F
- Bake time: 25–30 minutes
- Flip halfway through (at around 15 minutes) for even browning
You’ll know it’s done when the edges are golden brown and crispy.
Extra Tips for Perfect Baked Tofu
✅ Use extra-firm tofu only
Softer varieties (like silken or regular) will fall apart or stay mushy.
✅ Don’t skip the cornstarch
It creates a crispy outer coating — like air frying, but in your oven.
✅ Let it cool slightly before serving
Crispy edges firm up even more as it cools for 2–3 minutes.
Flavor Ideas for Baked Tofu
After baking, toss your tofu in any of these:
🍋 Lemon Garlic
- Fresh lemon juice
- Minced garlic
- Olive oil
- Fresh parsley
🌶️ Spicy Buffalo
- Hot sauce
- Vegan butter or tahini
- Garlic powder
🥜 Peanut-Ginger
- Peanut butter
- Soy sauce
- Ginger and lime juice
- Maple syrup
🍯 Sweet & Sticky
- Maple syrup
- Soy sauce
- Sriracha
- Rice vinegar
How to Use Crispy Tofu
- In grain bowls with quinoa, veggies, and tahini
- Tossed in salads for a protein boost
- Added to stir-fries or noodle dishes
- Inside wraps, tacos, or pitas
- With peanut sauce over rice
- As a snack — straight from the oven!
Storage and Reheating
- Store in the fridge up to 5 days in a sealed container
- To reheat, pop it back in the oven or air fryer for 5–10 minutes
- Avoid microwaving — it softens the crispy edges
One Ingredient, Endless Possibilities
Learning how to bake crispy tofu opens up a world of easy, delicious plant-based meals. With just a few minutes of prep and simple ingredients, you’ll have golden, savory tofu you can use all week.
Give it a try this week — you might never buy pre-seasoned tofu again.