Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Recipe

If you’re craving the fiery, tangy, totally addictive punch of Buffalo wings—but want a plant-based alternative bursting with flavor and crunch—these Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are about to become your new obsession! They’re crispy, golden, perfectly spicy, and seriously moreish, with all the nostalgia of classic game day eats (minus the chicken!).

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Ingredients You’ll Need

No oddball ingredients here—you’ll probably have most of these pantry staples already on hand! Each one is essential: from the cauliflower that stands in for the “wings,” to the panko that delivers the crunch, and the signature Buffalo sauce that pulls it all together with that classic bite.

• Cauliflower: Choose a medium head for the perfect “wing” size—break it into florets for perfect little bites.
• Flour (all-purpose or gluten-free): Forms the base of your batter, helping the seasonings and breadcrumbs cling beautifully.
• Cornstarch: Adds extra crispiness to your coating for that irresistible crunch.
• Vegan milk (unsweetened): Thins out the batter; any variety works, so use your favorite.
• Salt & ground black pepper: Brings out every flavor—don’t skip!
• Garlic powder: Infuses the batter and sauce with savory depth.
• Panko breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free): The secret to that golden, bakery-shop crunch.
• Vinegar-based hot sauce (like Frank’s): Delivers iconic Buffalo zing—adjust to your heat preference.
• Vegan butter: Tames the heat of the sauce and creates that silky Buffalo finish.
• Maple syrup: Balances the spice with just a touch of sweetness—totally customizable depending on your tastes.
• Vegan ranch dip: For the ultimate cooling, creamy dip alongside your spicy Buffalo Cauliflower Wings!

Variations

Feel free to play around with this recipe—one of the joys of Buffalo Cauliflower Wings is just how easily they adapt to whatever you’ve got or crave! Whether you’re skipping gluten, dialing up the heat, or jazzing up your dips, these wings are ready for your twist.

• Gluten-Free Buffalo Cauliflower Wings: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to keep things totally celiac-friendly while still delightfully crispy.
• Extra Spicy: Double the hot sauce in your Buffalo mix, or add a pinch of cayenne if you’re a heat seeker.
• Sweeter Buffalo Sauce: Up the maple syrup for a saucier, sweeter flavor that’s more BBQ-meets-Buffalo.
• Different Dips: Swap out ranch for vegan blue cheese, spicy mayo, or even avocado crema for a fresh twist!

How to Make Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

Step 1: Prep the Cauliflower and Your Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C) so it’s hot and ready for perfect roasting. Line a baking sheet with a silicone mat or greased foil—this makes cleanup a breeze and keeps your Buffalo Cauliflower Wings extra crispy. Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets, leaving a bit of stem on each for easy handling—like real “wings!”

Step 2: Mix the Batter and Prep the Breading Station

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, plant-based milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. You want a pancake batter-like consistency: add an extra splash of milk if it’s too thick. In a separate shallow bowl, season the panko breadcrumbs with a bit of sea salt and black pepper—this is what will create that irresistible, bakery-style crunch!

Step 3: Coat the Cauliflower

Toss all the cauliflower florets into the batter, stirring them around to ensure they’re fully coated. Then, working in batches, roll the battered florets in the seasoned panko, pressing gently to adhere. Arrange them on your prepared baking sheet, spacing out so they roast—not steam—for max crispiness.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Crisp

Bake the battered, breaded florets at high heat for 22 minutes. The high temp guarantees a shatteringly crisp shell! While they bake, whisk together your hot sauce, vegan butter, extra garlic powder, and maple syrup. Boil the sauce for a couple of minutes to mellow the sharpness and bring out the garlicky, tangy sweetness.

Step 5: Sauce and Finish Baking

Remove your golden Buffalo Cauliflower Wings from the oven and toss them thoroughly in the spicy sauce—use a spatula or tongs to turn so every piece gets sticky and coated. Return them to the baking sheet and bake another 5 minutes so the sauce seeps into every nook and cranny. Serve hot with a cold, creamy vegan ranch dip to cool things down—trust me, the contrast is magical!

How to Serve Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chives, sliced green onion, or parsley adds brightness and color atop your Buffalo Cauliflower Wings. If you love a bit of tang, dust lightly with extra black pepper or serve with lemon wedges for a citrusy pop.

Side Dishes

These wings pair perfectly with classic carrot and celery sticks (can’t go wrong!), crisp side salads, or even a pile of sweet potato fries. For a heartier plate, set them alongside vegan mac and cheese or a tangy cabbage slaw for the ultimate comfort combo.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Buffalo Cauliflower Wings in newspaper-lined baskets with a ramekin of ranch for full sports bar vibes! You could also skewer them on toothpicks for party platters, or stuff them into wraps or tacos with extra veggies and slaw for a meal that’s fun and fresh.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

While Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are best enjoyed hot and crisp right out of the oven, you can absolutely store leftovers! Simply transfer cooled wings to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Keep the dip separate and add just before serving.

Freezing

These cauliflower wings don’t freeze well, as the moisture from thawing will make them soggy—so it’s best to enjoy them fresh or from the fridge, not frozen. If you need to prep ahead, bake the coated florets (without sauce), cool, and refrigerate, then sauce and re-bake just before serving.

Reheating

For the crispiest leftovers, spread Buffalo Cauliflower Wings out on a baking sheet and reheat in a 425ºF oven until piping hot and the exterior is rejuvenated. The microwave will work in a pinch but results in a softer texture—delicious, but not as crackly!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for a knockout appetizer or snack, these Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are sure to impress! Bold, crispy, and bursting with big flavor, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser—whether you’re plant-based or just love a spicy, crunchy treat. Give them a whirl and let me know how you like yours best!

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