Crispy Tofu Nuggets in the Air Fryer (Easy and Delicious!)
There’s something about nuggets that just makes them a family favourite - they’re bite-sized, crunchy, and perfect for dipping into your favourite sauces. And these crispy tofu nuggets air fryer style tick all the boxes!
I’ve been on a mission to make tofu exciting for both kids and adults, and this tofu recipe has quickly become a go-to in our house. With a golden coating, a tender middle, and that satisfying crunch, these easy tofu nuggets are perfect for weeknight dinners, lunchboxes, or even a snack while you’re watching the footy.
The best part? They’re made with simple ingredients you probably already have at home. Plus, using the air fryer (I use the Ninja Fryer Max) means less oil, faster cooking, and that addictive crispiness we all love.
Why You’ll Love These Crispy Tofu Nuggets
I still remember back when I first made these tofu nuggets and my eldest sons first impression when he saw them.
“Did you make these or buy them?” he said.
I replied saying that I was experimenting with a new recipe and wanted him to try them.
He proceeded to smash his bowl of tofu nuggets saying that they were crunchy and delicious!
It was a great first impression and it’s why I’m here told writing out this recipe blog.
These crispy tofu nuggets are a big hit at my house, but here are a few reasons why they’ll be a winner at yours:
Kid-approved – My boys always go back for seconds.
Budget-friendly – Tofu is one of the most affordable plant-based proteins out there.
Customisable – Change up the seasonings or coating to suit your taste.
Quick & easy – These easy tofu nuggets take under 20 minutes to cook in the air fryer.
Perfect for meal prep – Make a big batch, freeze them, and reheat when needed.
How to Make Tofu Nuggets in the Air Fryer
Making crispy tofu nuggets air fryer style is a game-changer. The air fryer gives you that crunchy outside without deep frying - healthier and less mess to clean up afterwards.
I use the Ninja Fryer Max, and I love that it cooks evenly, so every tofu nugget comes out with the perfect crunch. Another bonus? No need to stand over the stove – just pop them in, set the timer, and you’re done.
Air frying also means you can use much less oil than traditional frying. This keeps the nuggets lighter while still delivering that golden crunch we’re all after.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of these easy tofu nuggets is that they rely on simple, budget-friendly ingredients you probably already have in the pantry.
No fancy equipment, no hard-to-find products, just a handful of everyday staples that come together to create the ultimate crispy tofu nuggets in the air fryer or oven.
450g Firm Tofu (pressed) – Pressing your tofu is key for removing excess moisture and getting the best, meatiest texture.
¼ cup cornflour – Helps the coating stick and gives you that golden, crisp bite.
1 tbsp garlic powder – Adds a savoury flavour boost without overpowering.
Salt & pepper – Simple, but essential for seasoning.
1–1½ cups lightly crushed corn flakes or panko breadcrumbs – The secret to the perfect crunchy coating.
2 tbsp nutritional yeast – Brings a cheesy, umami depth to your tofu nuggets.
½ cup soy milk – Helps bind the coating to the tofu.
Your favourite dipping sauces – Think vegan mayo, tomato sauce, BBQ, or sweet chilli for that final flavour hit.
Why Use Corn Flakes for the Coating?
Corn flakes might sound unusual, but they create an incredibly crunchy coating for your crispy tofu nuggets. They give a slightly different texture to panko – lighter, with more of a shatter when you bite in. If you’re after a classic nugget crunch, corn flakes are a winner.
Variations to Try
One of the best things about these easy tofu nuggets is just how versatile they are. You can easily switch up the flavours to suit your mood, your pantry, or even the picky eaters in the family. Whether you’re after something spicy, herby, gluten-free, or with that extra cheesy kick, these crispy tofu nuggets are the perfect blank canvas.
Here are a few delicious twists to inspire you:
Spicy Nuggets – Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or chilli powder to the coating mix for tofu nuggets with a fiery punch. Perfect if you love a bit of heat!
Herb-Crusted – Mix dried oregano, thyme, or rosemary into the crumb mix to give your crispy tofu nuggets an Italian-inspired flavour.
Gluten-Free – Swap panko breadcrumbs for certified gluten-free corn flakes to make these easy tofu nuggets completely gluten-free while keeping that irresistible crunch.
Cheesy-Style – Increase the nutritional yeast to 3 tablespoons for tofu nuggets with a stronger, savoury cheesy flavour.
Can You Bake These Tofu Nuggets?
Absolutely! While I’m a big fan of the crispy tofu nuggets air fryer method, you can bake them if you don’t have an air fryer.
Simply preheat your oven to 200°C, arrange the nuggets on a lined baking tray, and bake for about 25 minutes, flipping halfway. They won’t be quite as crisp as air-fried, but still delicious.
Serving Suggestions
These tofu nuggets are super versatile. Here are some ways we enjoy them:
Classic nuggets & chips
In wraps or tacos
Party platter
Lunchbox hero
FAQs for Crispy Tofu Nuggets
Do you need to press tofu for nuggets?
Yes – pressing removes water so the coating sticks and the tofu stays firm while cooking.
Can you freeze tofu nuggets?
Definitely! Freeze them after cooking, then reheat in the air fryer for 5–7 minutes at 180°C.
What’s the best tofu for nuggets?
Firm tofu works best for crispy tofu nuggets, as it holds its shape and has a great bite.
These crispy tofu nuggets air fryer style are proof that tofu can be exciting, flavourful, and even kid-approved. Whether you’re making them for dinner, snacks, or lunchboxes, they’re quick, delicious, and guaranteed to disappear fast.
Give them a go, and let me know your favourite dipping sauce combo!
INGREDIENTS
Crispy Tofu Nuggets
450g Firm Tofu (pressed)
¼ cup cornflour
1 tbsp garlic powder
Salt & pepper
1–1½ cups lightly crushed corn flakes or panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp nutritional yeast
1/2 cup soy milk
Dipping sauces: vegan mayo, tomato sauce, BBQ, sweet chilli
METHOD
Cut tofu into nugget shapes.
Mix in garlic powder and salt and pepper to your cornflour, as well as mixing in nutritional yeast into your crushed corn flakes/panko breadcrumbs.
Coat your tofu as follows: flour → milk → corn flake mix.
Air fry (200°C, 15 mins) or bake (200°C, 25 mins), flip halfway. Serve with dips.
*This blog includes affiliates links where I may receive a commission
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