Start by draining the tofu and pressing it to remove excess moisture. Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel and place a weight on top for about 15-20 minutes.
Once pressed, slice the tofu into cubes or rectangles, aiming for pieces that are approximately 1-inch thick.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, thyme, sweet smoked paprika, and molasses.
Toss the tofu pieces with corn starch, then pour the marinade over the tofu and gently mix until well-coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to overnight.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Spread the marinated tofu in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Once baked, let the tofu cool for a few minutes, then serve with your favorite sides or incorporate into dishes.