Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This creates a non-stick surface and helps the nuggets crisp up evenly.
Drain the tofu and press out as much excess water as possible—this step is key for crispy edges. Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes, about 1-inch each.
In a shallow bowl, pour the soy sauce and toss the tofu cubes gently to coat them well. Let them marinate for about 10-15 minutes—this infuses flavor and helps the coating stick.
In another bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute the seasonings.
Using tongs or a spatula, dip each tofu cube into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres evenly. Place the coated tofu on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, leaving space between pieces.
Lightly spray the coated tofu with cooking spray, which will help achieve a golden, crispy exterior. Make sure all pieces are lightly coated for even crispness.
Bake the tofu for 25-30 minutes, flipping or turning them halfway through to promote even browning. You'll hear a gentle crunch as they bake, and the aroma of toasted breadcrumbs will fill your kitchen.
Check for doneness: the nuggets should be golden brown and crispy on the edges. The coating should feel firm and crackly when you tap it gently.
Remove the nuggets from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes on a cooling rack. This helps the crust set and stay crispy when served.
Serve the crispy baked tofu nuggets hot, with your favorite dipping sauces like spicy mayo, sweet chili, or a tangy dip. Enjoy that satisfying crunch with every bite!