Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Recipe

If you’re craving a snack that packs a punch of flavor without any animal products, this Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and drenched in a tangy, spicy buffalo sauce, these wings make the perfect shareable appetizer or a satisfying main dish. Plus, they’re super easy to make, bringing together simple ingredients that create a mouthwatering texture and bold taste that won’t leave anyone missing traditional buffalo wings!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this recipe lies in its straightforward and wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a vital role: the cauliflower forms the hearty base, the batter keeps the wings crisp, and the buffalo sauce delivers that iconic zingy heat and buttery finish. Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

• 1 medium head of cauliflower: Cut into bite-sized florets, this is the star of the dish, a perfect canvas for crispy coating and flavorful sauce.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for gluten-free): This creates a sturdy and crispy batter that hugs each floret beautifully.
• 1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based milk: Almond, soy, or oat milk work great to keep the batter smooth and dairy-free.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a savory depth that’s essential for that classic wing flavor.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the batter with just the right subtle bite.
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika): Gives a mild smoky warmth that complements the buffalo sauce perfectly.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: To season and balance all the flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: For a gentle kick of heat and earthiness.
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): Kick up the spice if you like things hotter!
• 1/2 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot): This is the soul of the buffalo wings, delivering that vibrant, spicy punch.
• 1/4 cup vegan butter, melted: Adds richness and helps the sauce cling to the cauliflower.
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup or agave (optional): A touch of sweetness to balance out the heat.
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (optional): Brings a lovely tang that brightens up the sauce.

How to Make Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven for Crispy Perfection

Start by heating your oven to 450°F (230°C) and preparing a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This high heat is key to achieving those irresistible crispy edges you want in your vegan buffalo cauliflower wings.

Step 2: Prep the Cauliflower Florets

Chop your medium head of cauliflower into evenly sized bite-sized florets. Uniformity here ensures every piece cooks evenly and crisps up just right, so no one floret is soggy or underdone.

Step 3: Whisk Up the Flavorful Batter

In a large bowl, mix together the flour, plant-based milk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you’re aiming for extra heat. The batter should be thick enough to coat but pourable enough to help the cauliflower get that beautiful, even coverage. If needed, thin it out with a splash more milk.

Step 4: Coat Each Cauliflower Floret

Dip each piece into your batter, making sure it’s fully coated, then shake off any excess before placing it on your prepared baking sheet. This ensures a crunchy, flaky layer without sogginess, which is what makes these wings so irresistible.

Step 5: Bake to Golden, Crispy Goodness

Pop the tray in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping the florets halfway through to get an even golden crisp all around. This step gives you that wonderful crispy texture that’s so satisfying as a base for the buffalo sauce.

Step 6: Whip Up the Tangy Buffalo Sauce

While the cauliflower is baking, mix the hot sauce with melted vegan butter, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar. Taste and adjust – a bit more sweetness or tang if you like. This sauce is what brings the punch to your Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Recipe, so make it flavorful and balanced!

Step 7: Toss and Coat the Cauliflower

Once your golden florets come out of the oven, toss them gently in the buffalo sauce until they’re all lovingly coated in that bright, spicy, buttery glaze. You can do this in a bowl or directly on the baking sheet.

Step 8: Bake Again for Saucy Crisp

Return the sauced cauliflower wings to the oven for another 5 to 7 minutes. This final bake helps the sauce set and intensifies that irresistible crispiness, making these wings nothing short of addictive.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your vegan buffalo cauliflower wings immediately with your favorite plant-based ranch or vegan blue cheese dressing. Don’t forget a garnish of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness!

How to Serve Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro add a lovely fresh burst of flavor and vibrant color that beautifully contrast the spicy wings. You might also sprinkle with some sesame seeds or finely chopped green onions for a little extra texture and zing.

Side Dishes

These wings go perfectly with crunchy celery sticks and carrot batons, classic accompaniments that help cool down the heat. For a heartier meal, consider serving them alongside a crisp salad or some creamy mashed potatoes to balance all the bold flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving your vegan buffalo cauliflower wings on a platter with several dipping sauces for variety, like vegan ranch, garlic aioli, or even a cooling cucumber yogurt dip. You can also arrange them on slider buns for a playful finger food that doubles as a party hit.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’re best enjoyed within 2 to 3 days to keep that perfect balance of crispy texture and saucy goodness intact.

Freezing

You can freeze these wings after the initial baking step, before adding the sauce. Arrange the coated cauliflower on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a sealed freezer bag. This way you can have a quick snack ready anytime — just bake and toss in the sauce when you’re ready to eat!

Reheating

To reheat without losing crispiness, place the wings on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes. Avoid the microwave to prevent sogginess and keep that crispy, buffalo-coated exterior intact.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour for chickpea flour or another gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure the batter is thick enough to coat the cauliflower well.

What kind of hot sauce works best?

Classic buffalo flavor comes from sauces like Frank’s RedHot, but feel free to use any vegan-friendly hot sauce you prefer to tweak the heat and flavor to your liking.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, baking is the method used in this recipe and works perfectly to get crispy results without the mess or extra oil of frying.

How spicy are these wings?

The heat level can be customized by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper and the choice of hot sauce. You can always serve with a cooling dip to balance the spice.

Can I make these ahead of time for a party?

You can prep the batter-coated cauliflower ahead and freeze it. Before your event, just bake and toss in the sauce so they’re fresh and crispy when served.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing like sharing a plate of perfectly crispy, spicy, and utterly satisfying vegan buffalo cauliflower wings with your favorite people. This Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Recipe is not only a great way to enjoy the flavors and fun of traditional wings but also a delightful way to bring veggies to the center of the table. Give them a try, and I promise they’ll become one of your go-to snacks for game nights, parties, or cozy evenings in!

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