12 Crispy Sesame Seed Baked Tofu Delights

There’s something undeniably satisfying about biting into a piece of perfectly crispy, sesame seed-crusted tofu—especially when it’s baked to golden perfection without the fuss of deep frying. Whether you’re a tofu aficionado or just looking for a deliciously easy way to spice up your weeknight dinners, our roundup of 12 crispy sesame seed baked tofu delights is sure to inspire your next kitchen adventure. Let’s dive in!

Sesame Seed Crusted Baked Tofu

Gently, the morning light filters through the kitchen window, casting a soft glow on the counter where today’s culinary adventure begins. This sesame seed crusted baked tofu is a humble yet elegant dish, offering a crisp exterior and a tender heart, perfect for those seeking a moment of quiet indulgence.

Ingredients

• 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and drained
• 2 tbsp toasted sesame oil
• 1/4 cup soy sauce, preferably tamari
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1/2 cup white sesame seeds
• 1/4 cup black sesame seeds
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Slice the pressed tofu into 1/2-inch thick rectangles, ensuring even thickness for uniform cooking.
3. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, maple syrup, garlic powder, and smoked paprika to create a marinade.
4. Dip each tofu slice into the marinade, coating all sides, then let excess drip off.
5. Combine the white and black sesame seeds on a plate. Press each marinated tofu slice into the seeds, coating evenly on all sides.
6. Arrange the coated tofu slices on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each for even air circulation.
7. Bake for 25 minutes, then carefully flip each slice and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the crust is golden and firm.
8. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes to allow the crust to set further.

Momentarily, the kitchen fills with the nutty aroma of toasted sesame, a prelude to the dish’s satisfying crunch and umami depth. Serve these golden slices atop a bed of steamed jasmine rice or alongside a vibrant salad for a contrast in textures and flavors.

Honey Glazed Sesame Tofu Bites

Sometimes, the simplest ingredients can transform into something extraordinary with just a bit of care and attention. Honey Glazed Sesame Tofu Bites are a testament to this, offering a delightful balance of sweet and savory, with a texture that’s irresistibly crisp on the outside yet tender within.

Ingredients

• 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
• 2 tbsp toasted sesame oil
• 3 tbsp raw honey
• 2 tbsp tamari sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp ginger powder
• 2 tbsp sesame seeds
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together toasted sesame oil, raw honey, tamari sauce, rice vinegar, garlic powder, and ginger powder until fully combined.
3. Add the pressed and cubed tofu to the bowl, gently tossing to ensure each piece is evenly coated with the marinade. Let it sit for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
4. Transfer the marinated tofu to the prepared baking sheet, arranging the pieces in a single layer without touching.
5. Bake for 25 minutes, flipping the tofu bites halfway through, until they are golden and crispy on the edges.
6. While the tofu bakes, toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, until fragrant, then set aside.
7. In a small saucepan, combine cornstarch and water, stirring over medium heat until the mixture thickens into a glaze, about 3 minutes.
8. Remove the tofu from the oven and brush each piece with the cornstarch glaze, then sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds.
9. Return the tofu to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to set the glaze.

When these bites emerge from the oven, they’ll glisten with a sticky-sweet glaze, the sesame seeds adding a nutty crunch. Serve them atop a bed of steamed jasmine rice or as a standout addition to your next appetizer spread.

Spicy Sesame Baked Tofu Strips

Now, as the quiet of the morning wraps around me, I find myself drawn to the simplicity and depth of flavors that this dish promises. It’s a recipe that speaks to the soul, offering a spicy kick balanced by the nutty warmth of sesame, all wrapped in the humble embrace of tofu.

Ingredients

• 1 block extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into 1/2-inch strips
• 2 tbsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 1 tbsp honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds, for garnish
• 1/4 cup scallions, thinly sliced, for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the toasted sesame oil, gochujang, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, and rice vinegar until fully combined.
3. Arrange the tofu strips on the prepared baking sheet and brush both sides generously with the marinade.
4. Bake for 25 minutes, flipping the strips halfway through, until they are golden and crispy at the edges.
5. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and scallions before serving.

Lightly crisp on the outside yet tender within, these tofu strips carry a melody of flavors that dance between spicy, sweet, and umami. Serve them atop a bed of steamed jasmine rice or tucked into a warm tortilla for a quick, flavorful wrap.

Garlic Sesame Baked Tofu Cubes

Evenings like these call for something simple yet profoundly satisfying, a dish that whispers comfort with every bite. Garlic sesame baked tofu cubes are just that—a humble creation that turns the ordinary into something quietly extraordinary.

Ingredients

• 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
• 2 tbsp toasted sesame oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp tamari
• 1 tsp maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds
• 1/4 tsp sea salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the toasted sesame oil, minced garlic, tamari, maple syrup, ground ginger, crushed red pepper flakes, and sea salt until well combined.
3. Gently toss the pressed and cubed tofu in the marinade until each piece is evenly coated. Let it sit for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
4. Arrange the marinated tofu cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping the cubes halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy on the edges.
6. Sprinkle the baked tofu cubes with sesame seeds immediately after removing them from the oven, allowing the residual heat to toast the seeds slightly.

As the tofu cools, it develops a delightful contrast between the crispy exterior and the tender, flavorful interior. Try serving these cubes over a bed of steamed jasmine rice or tossing them into a vibrant grain bowl for a meal that feels both nourishing and indulgent.

Maple Sesame Baked Tofu

Kindly imagine the quiet hum of a Sunday morning, the kitchen bathed in soft light, as you prepare to embrace the comforting process of creating something nourishing. This Maple Sesame Baked Tofu is a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients transforming under heat into a dish rich with depth and warmth.

Ingredients

• 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
• 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 tbsp tamari or soy sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, toasted sesame oil, tamari, garlic powder, and ground ginger until fully combined.
3. Add the pressed and cubed tofu to the bowl, gently tossing to ensure each piece is evenly coated with the marinade. Tip: For deeper flavor, let the tofu marinate for 30 minutes, though this step is optional.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the lined baking sheet to prevent sticking, then arrange the tofu in a single layer, reserving any leftover marinade.
5. Bake for 25 minutes, then carefully flip each piece of tofu and brush with the reserved marinade. Sprinkle the sesame seeds evenly over the tofu.
6. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the tofu is golden brown and the edges are slightly crispy. Tip: Keep an eye on the sesame seeds to prevent burning during the final minutes of baking.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Tip: This resting period allows the tofu to firm up slightly, enhancing its texture.

Rich with the earthy sweetness of maple and the nutty aroma of sesame, this tofu emerges from the oven with a delightful contrast of crispy edges and a tender interior. Serve it atop a vibrant bowl of greens or alongside steamed rice for a meal that feels both wholesome and indulgent.

Sesame and Soy Baked Tofu

Calmly, as the morning light filters through the kitchen window, there’s something deeply comforting about preparing a dish that balances simplicity with depth of flavor. This sesame and soy baked tofu is just that—a humble yet profoundly satisfying creation that marries the nuttiness of sesame with the umami richness of soy.

Ingredients

• 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
• 2 tbsp toasted sesame oil
• 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 2 tbsp sesame seeds
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, maple syrup, garlic powder, ground ginger, and rice vinegar until fully combined.
3. Gently toss the pressed and cubed tofu in the marinade, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Let it sit for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
4. Arrange the marinated tofu in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, reserving any leftover marinade.
5. Sprinkle the sesame seeds evenly over the tofu, pressing lightly to adhere.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping the tofu halfway through and brushing with the reserved marinade for extra flavor.
7. Remove from the oven when the tofu is golden brown and slightly crispy on the edges.

Unassuming yet unforgettable, this baked tofu emerges from the oven with a delightful contrast of textures—crispy edges giving way to a tender, flavorful interior. Serve it atop a bed of steamed jasmine rice or toss it into a vibrant grain bowl for a meal that feels both nourishing and indulgent.

Five-Spice Sesame Baked Tofu

Calmly, as the morning light filters through the kitchen window, there’s something deeply comforting about preparing a dish that balances simplicity with depth of flavor. This five-spice sesame baked tofu is just that—a humble yet richly aromatic creation that invites mindfulness in both its making and its enjoyment.

Ingredients

• 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
• 2 tbsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 tbsp Chinese five-spice powder
• 1 tbsp tamari or soy sauce
• 1 tsp maple syrup
• 1 tbsp white sesame seeds
• 1 tbsp black sesame seeds

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the toasted sesame oil, Chinese five-spice powder, tamari, and maple syrup until fully combined.
3. Gently fold the pressed and cubed tofu into the marinade, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Let it marinate for 10 minutes, turning the pieces halfway through for even absorption.
4. Arrange the marinated tofu in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, reserving any leftover marinade.
5. Bake for 25 minutes, then carefully flip each piece and brush with the reserved marinade. Sprinkle evenly with white and black sesame seeds.
6. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the tofu is golden and the edges are slightly crispy.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Here, the tofu emerges with a delicate crispness outside, giving way to a tender, flavorful interior. The five-spice and sesame create a warm, nutty aroma that’s perfect atop a bowl of steamed jasmine rice or nestled into a vibrant salad.

Crispy Sesame Tofu Nuggets

On a quiet afternoon, when the light slants just so through the kitchen window, there’s something deeply satisfying about preparing a dish that’s both simple and transformative. Crispy Sesame Tofu Nuggets, with their golden exterior and tender heart, offer just that—a humble ingredient turned into something unexpectedly delightful.

Ingredients

• 14 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 2 tbsp toasted sesame oil
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 cup sesame seeds
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

1. Preheat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat and add vegetable oil, heating until shimmering but not smoking, about 2 minutes.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cornstarch, garlic powder, and ground ginger until fully combined.
3. Gently toss tofu cubes in the cornstarch mixture, ensuring each piece is evenly coated for maximum crispiness.
4. Carefully add coated tofu to the skillet in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding to ensure even browning. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden and crispy.
5. While tofu cooks, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, and maple syrup in a small bowl to create the glaze.
6. Once tofu is crispy, reduce heat to low and pour the glaze over the nuggets, tossing gently to coat. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top and toss once more.
7. Remove from heat and let sit for 1 minute to allow the glaze to thicken slightly, enhancing the nuggets’ flavor and texture.

Zesty and aromatic, these nuggets boast a perfect contrast between their crispy shell and soft interior. Serve them atop a bed of steamed jasmine rice or tucked into lettuce wraps for a light yet satisfying meal.

Sesame Ginger Baked Tofu

Wandering through the quiet of the morning, the thought of a dish that marries the warmth of ginger with the nutty depth of sesame seeds comes to mind, a simple yet profound pleasure for the senses.

Ingredients

• 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
• 2 tbsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, finely grated
• 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 1 tsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds, for garnish
• 1 scallion, thinly sliced, for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the toasted sesame oil, grated ginger, soy sauce, maple syrup, and rice vinegar until fully combined.
3. Add the pressed and cubed tofu to the bowl, gently tossing to ensure each piece is evenly coated with the marinade.
4. Let the tofu marinate for at least 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to penetrate. Tip: For deeper flavor, cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours.
5. Arrange the marinated tofu in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, reserving any leftover marinade.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping the tofu halfway through, until golden and slightly crispy on the edges. Tip: Brush the tofu with the reserved marinade before flipping for extra flavor.
7. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the texture to firm up. Tip: For an extra crunch, broil for the last 2 minutes of cooking, watching closely to prevent burning.
8. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced scallions before serving.

How the tofu emerges from the oven with a delicate crispness, the sesame and ginger melding into a harmony of flavors, is nothing short of magical. Serve it atop a bed of steamed jasmine rice or nestled in a vibrant salad for a meal that sings with simplicity and depth.

Baked Tofu with Sesame and Green Onions

On a quiet afternoon, when the light slants just so through the kitchen window, there’s something deeply comforting about preparing a dish that’s both simple and full of flavor. This baked tofu, with its golden edges and aromatic sesame and green onions, is just that kind of recipe.

Ingredients

• 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
• 2 tbsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 tbsp tamari or soy sauce
• 1 tsp maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the toasted sesame oil, tamari, maple syrup, garlic powder, and ground ginger until well combined.
3. Add the pressed and cubed tofu to the bowl, gently tossing to ensure each piece is evenly coated with the marinade. Tip: Pressing the tofu for at least 15 minutes before cubing removes excess water, allowing it to absorb more flavor.
4. Spread the marinated tofu in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring pieces are not touching for even baking.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping the tofu halfway through, until it’s golden brown and slightly crispy on the edges. Tip: For extra crispiness, broil the tofu for the last 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
6. Remove the tofu from the oven and immediately sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Tip: Toasting the sesame seeds beforehand in a dry pan over medium heat for 1-2 minutes enhances their nutty flavor.

As you take your first bite, notice how the tofu’s crisp exterior gives way to a tender, flavorful center, with the sesame and green onions adding a fresh, aromatic finish. Serve it over a bed of steamed rice or alongside a vibrant stir-fry for a meal that feels both nourishing and indulgent.

Sesame Tofu with a Sweet Chili Glaze

Perhaps there’s something deeply comforting about the combination of crispy tofu and a glaze that dances between sweet and spicy, a dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome. This sesame tofu with a sweet chili glaze is a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create something unexpectedly complex.

Ingredients

• 14 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1/4 cup toasted sesame oil
• 1/3 cup sweet chili sauce
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp rice vinegar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced

Instructions

1. Preheat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add the toasted sesame oil, allowing it to warm for about 1 minute until shimmering.
2. Toss the pressed and cubed tofu with cornstarch until evenly coated, ensuring each piece is lightly dusted for optimal crispiness.
3. Carefully add the tofu to the skillet in a single layer, cooking for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Resist the urge to stir too early to achieve a perfect sear.
4. While the tofu cooks, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a small bowl to create the glaze.
5. Once the tofu is crispy, reduce the heat to low and pour the glaze over the tofu, gently tossing to coat each piece evenly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the glaze thickens slightly.
6. Remove from heat and sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a fresh, aromatic finish.

Best enjoyed when the tofu’s crisp exterior gives way to its tender interior, all enveloped in a glaze that’s as vibrant in flavor as it is in color. Serve it atop a bed of steamed jasmine rice or alongside a crisp, green salad for a meal that’s as balanced as it is satisfying.

Orange Sesame Baked Tofu

Venturing into the realm of plant-based delights, this dish marries the zesty brightness of orange with the deep, nutty undertones of sesame, creating a harmony of flavors that dance on the palate. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients can transform into something extraordinary, offering a moment of quiet joy in the everyday.

Ingredients

• 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 2 tbsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp orange zest
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds
• 1 tbsp cornstarch

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the orange juice, toasted sesame oil, maple syrup, soy sauce, orange zest, garlic powder, and ground ginger until fully combined.
3. Add the pressed and cubed tofu to the bowl, gently tossing to ensure each piece is evenly coated with the marinade. Let it sit for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
4. Sprinkle the cornstarch over the tofu, tossing again to create a light coating that will help crisp the tofu during baking.
5. Arrange the tofu in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring pieces do not touch for even cooking.
6. Bake for 25 minutes, then flip each piece of tofu and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the tofu is golden and crispy around the edges.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow the texture to set.

This Orange Sesame Baked Tofu emerges from the oven with a delightful contrast of textures—crispy on the outside, yet tender within. The orange and sesame meld into a glaze that’s both sweet and savory, perfect atop a bed of steamed jasmine rice or nestled in a vibrant grain bowl. Try garnishing with thinly sliced green onions for a pop of color and freshness.

Conclusion

Savory, crunchy, and utterly delicious, these 12 Crispy Sesame Seed Baked Tofu Delights are a must-try for any home cook looking to spice up their meal routine. Whether you’re a tofu aficionado or just starting to explore its versatility, there’s something here for everyone. Don’t forget to leave a comment with your favorite recipe and share the love by pinning this article on Pinterest. Happy cooking!