Delicious Crispy Baked Tofu
Jessica T. Brown
Golden, crispy, and flavorful baked tofu that’s quick, easy, and packed with plant-based protein. Perfect as a snack, topping, or main protein in bowls.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 25 minutes mins
Total Time 35 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
- 1 block Extra-Firm Tofu
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Onion Powder
- 1 tsp Ground Cumin
- ½ tsp Ground Coriander
- ½ tsp Cayenne Pepper
- 1 –2 tbsp Avocado Oil
- ½ Lemon for juice, optional
- Flaky Salt to taste
Preheat and Prepare: Begin by setting your oven to 450°F (230°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using parchment ensures the tofu crisps evenly without sticking, creating that perfect golden crust. Cube the Tofu: Carefully drain the tofu and pat it dry with a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture. Cut the block in half, then quarters, and each quarter into thirds, creating evenly sized cubes. Uniform cubes guarantee consistent cooking and a crunchy texture on all sides. Season the Tofu: Place the tofu cubes in a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle over the garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper. Drizzle generously with avocado oil and use your hands or a spatula to gently toss until every cube is coated in the spice-oil mixture. Arrange for Crisping: Transfer the seasoned cubes to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart in a single layer.Avoid overcrowding, as cubes too close together will steam instead of crisp, preventing that desired golden exterior. Bake to Perfection: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping once halfway through if desired. The tofu should emerge golden on top, slightly charred on the bottom, and irresistibly crispy while still tender inside. Finish and Serve: Remove the tofu from the oven and, while still warm, sprinkle with flaky salt and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for a bright, tangy finish.Serve immediately as a snack, protein for bowls, or as part of a main dish.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This tofu keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheats beautifully in the oven or air fryer.
- Customizable Heat: Adjust cayenne pepper to taste if you prefer mild or extra spicy tofu.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with rice bowls, salads, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Optional Enhancements: Add fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a burst of freshness before serving.
- Crispiness Tip: For extra crunch, let the tofu cubes rest for a few minutes after baking; they firm up slightly as they cool.