Crispy Air Fryer Buffalo Tofu Wings Recipe

If you love the spicy, tangy kick of buffalo wings but want a delicious plant-based alternative, this Air Fryer Buffalo Tofu Wings Recipe is about to become your new favorite snack or appetizer. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and drenched in classic buffalo sauce, these tofu wings are proof that plant-based can be just as satisfying and crave-worthy as traditional chicken wings.

Using extra firm tofu makes these wings a fantastic source of protein while keeping the dish vegan and family-friendly. Plus, cooking them in an air fryer means less oil, less mess, and a quicker cleanup without sacrificing any of that perfect crispy texture. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan, a curious flexitarian, or just buffalo sauce obsessed, this recipe ticks all the boxes for flavor, crunch, and ease.

Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!

If you’re interested in more plant-based air-fryer recipes, feel free to explore my complete Vegan Air Fryer Recipes Collection here.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these crispy buffalo tofu wings:

• 1 brick Extra firm tofu, drained and pressed
• Batter:
  • ¼ cup cornstarch
  • ¼ cup unsweetened plain milk (soy milk recommended for creaminess)
  • ½ cup seasoned bread crumbs (substitute with panko or gluten-free breadcrumbs as needed)
• Buffalo Sauce:
  • ½ cup Frank’s Buffalo sauce
  • 2 tbsp melted vegan butter

Substitutions & Tips:

• For gluten-free wings, swap the breadcrumbs with GF-certified panko or crushed gluten-free crackers.
• Unsweetened almond or oat milk can replace soy milk if preferred.
• For a spicier buffalo sauce, add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to taste.
• Pressing your tofu is key to removing excess moisture, which ensures crispiness.

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Helpful Tools

• Air Fryer: Essential for that golden, crispy finish with minimal oil. If you don’t have one, see the oven-baking option below.
• Tofu Press or Heavy Dish Towel: To press the tofu and remove moisture.
• Three shallow bowls: For cornstarch, milk, and breadcrumbs – perfect for an easy dredging station.
• Air fryer rack or basket: To allow air circulation around the tofu for even crisping.

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How to Make This Crispy Air Fryer Buffalo Tofu Wings Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Tofu

Start by pressing your extra firm tofu. Wrap the tofu block in a clean dish towel and place a heavy object on top (like a cast iron skillet) for at least 20 minutes to drain excess liquid. Then, cut the tofu into roughly 16 evenly sized “wing” pieces.

Step 2: Set Up the Batter Stations

Place the cornstarch in the first shallow bowl, the unsweetened milk in the second, and the breadcrumbs in the third.

Step 3: Coat the Tofu Wings

Toss each tofu piece first into the cornstarch, coating thoroughly. Then dip it into the milk, followed by a generous coating of breadcrumbs. This triple layer helps lock in moisture and creates a crispy shell.

Step 4: Air Fry the Tofu

Place the coated tofu wings directly onto the air fryer rack in a single layer. Cook at 390°F (200°C) for 8 minutes, flipping halfway through at the 4-minute mark to ensure even crisping.

Step 5: Prepare the Buffalo Sauce

While the tofu cooks, melt the vegan butter in a small saucepan or microwave. Stir in the Frank’s buffalo sauce until fully combined.

Step 6: Coat and Serve

Once the tofu wings are crispy, transfer them to a bowl and toss well with the buffalo sauce to coat evenly. Serve immediately with vegan ranch or bleu cheese dressing for dipping.

Oven Baking Option:
If you don’t have an air fryer, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the coated tofu on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.

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Tips & Tricks

• Get Extra Crispy Wings: Press tofu well and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket so air circulates freely.
• Avoid Sogginess: Toss tofu in sauce right before serving rather than letting it sit coated.
• Best Dips: Vegan ranch or bleu cheese alternatives balance the heat perfectly. Celery sticks add crunch and freshness.
• Storage: Keep leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for best results.

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Benefits of This Air Fryer Buffalo Tofu Wings Recipe

• Tofu is an excellent plant-based protein packed with essential amino acids.
• Air frying reduces oil usage, making this a lower-fat, lower-calorie alternative to deep-fried wings.
• Gluten-free and vegan-friendly with easy substitutions.
• Perfect for those looking to add more plant-based meals without sacrificing bold flavors.

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Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Buffalo Tofu Wings Recipe

• Bursting with spicy, tangy buffalo flavor that buffalo wing fans crave.
• Crispy coating with tender, juicy tofu inside – a great texture combo.
• Quick, easy, and kid-friendly. Perfect for game days, snacks, or party appetizers.
• Versatile enough to enjoy as a snack, salad topping, or wrapped in a tortilla.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with vegan ranch or bleu cheese dip and crunchy celery sticks for a classic combo.
• Toss wings over a leafy green salad for a protein-packed meal.
• Wrap in a tortilla with lettuce and avocado for a flavorful buffalo tofu wrap.

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Pressing the Tofu:

To get the best results, always press tofu before cooking. Wrap your tofu block in a kitchen towel or paper towels and place a heavy object like a pan or tofu press on top. This step removes excess moisture and ensures the tofu achieves a crispy texture when air-fried.

Freezing and Thawing the Tofu for Texture:

If you’re looking for tofu with a chewier, meatier texture, try freezing and thawing the tofu block before cooking. This process helps the tofu absorb more flavor from the batter and buffalo sauce.