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vegan tofu sandwich

Maple-Chipotle Glazed Tofu Sandwich (Sweet + Smoky)

Ella Dereza
This Maple-Chipotle Glazed Tofu Sandwich brings together sweet maple, smoky heat, and fresh, crunchy toppings for a bold yet balanced bite. It’s quick to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for anyone who loves a plant-based sandwich with serious personality.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Breakfast, brunch, sandwich
Cuisine clean eating, plant-based, vegan
Servings 2 sandwiches
Calories 380 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 mixing bowl
  • 1 air fryer

Ingredients
  

  • 1 Tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 tsp chipotle in adobo (minced) (or chipotle powder)
  • 1 tsp soy sauce
  • ½ tsp ground cumin
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 block firm or extra-firm tofu, sliced (250 g / 8.8 oz)
  • 2 Ciabatta or whole-grain sourdough
  • 1 smashed avocado with lime (just avocado + lime juice + pinch of salt)
  • Quick-pickled onions
  • Tomato slices
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Hemp seeds
  • Tahini dressing recipe here

Instructions
 

Prep the Tofu:

  • Press tofu 10–20 minutes if possible for best texture.
    In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, chipotle, soy sauce, cumin, and smoked paprika.
    Coat tofu slices on all sides and let sit 5–10 minutes.

Option A: Air Fryer (Crispy + Fast)

  • Air fry at 190°C / 375°F for 10–14 minutes, flipping halfway, until caramelized.

Option B: Oven (Even Caramelization)

  • Preheat oven to 200°C / 400°F.
    Place tofu on a lined baking sheet.
    Bake 22–28 minutes, flipping at the halfway point, until edges are browned and glaze looks sticky.

Option C: Stovetop (Best for Extra Searing)

  • Heat a nonstick or cast-iron pan over medium heat with a drizzle of oil.
    Add tofu slices and cook 3–4 minutes per side.
    Brush on any leftover marinade during the last minute so it caramelizes without burning.

Build the Sandwich:

  • Toast the bread if you’d like extra crunch.
    Spread smashed avocado generously on each slice.
    Layer on the maple–chipotle tofu.
    Add quick-pickled onions, shredded cabbage, and cilantro.
    Close and enjoy warm.

Notes

Notes:
  • Bread type and avocado portion can affect total calories.
  • Using ciabatta or sourdough will increase carbs slightly; whole-grain adds more fiber.
  • Nutrition for optional pickled onions and cabbage is minimal.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sandwichCalories: 380kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 22gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gFiber: 6gSugar: 8gCalcium: 350mgIron: 4mg
Keyword air fryer, brunch, healthy, healthy breakfast, plant-based recipes, tofu, vegan recipes
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