Step 1

Slice tofu block in half lengthwise. Cut each half into 1/3-inch slices to make bite-sized 'nuggets.' Place tofu in resealable plastic bags and freeze until firm and dry, at least 24 hours.

Step 2

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

Step 3

Place tofu slices on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in the microwave until defrosted, 2 to 5 minutes. Squeeze out water from the tofu and place slices over 3 layers of paper towels to drain. Pat dry with additional paper towels.

Step 4

Mix ranch dressing, hot sauce, sugar, and black pepper together in a bowl. Pour bread crumbs into a separate bowl. Coat tofu slices with the ranch mixture and roll in bread crumbs until thoroughly coated.

Step 5

Bake in the preheated oven until tofu nuggets are golden brown, 20 to 25 minutes.