Looking for a healthier, yet equally satisfying alternative to traditional buffalo wings? Look no further than cauliflower buffalo wings! This dish offers all the bold, spicy flavors of classic buffalo wings while being completely plant-based and much lighter. Whether you’re craving a snack for game day, a quick appetizer, or just a delicious veggie-based meal, cauliflower buffalo wings are the perfect choice.
These crispy, tender cauliflower florets are coated in a spicy buffalo sauce, creating a mouthwatering combination that’s impossible to resist. With their addictive crunch and bold heat, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Plus, they’re simple to prepare, and you can customize the heat level to suit your taste. Let’s dive into this cauliflower buffalo wings recipe, so you can create this spicy delight in your kitchen!
Ingredients
For this cauliflower buffalo wings recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Cauliflower Wings:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower – cut into bite-sized florets (about 4-5 cups)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for a gluten-free option)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (for extra flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3/4 cup water (or non-dairy milk for a creamier texture)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the baking sheet)
For the Buffalo Sauce:
- 1/2 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot or any preferred brand)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or dairy-free butter for a vegan option)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to make the perfect cauliflower buffalo wings:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Cauliflower
Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C). This high heat ensures that the cauliflower gets nice and crispy on the outside while staying tender on the inside.
While the oven heats up, prepare the cauliflower. Cut your cauliflower into bite-sized florets, ensuring they are roughly the same size to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
In a large bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. These spices will add depth of flavor to the coating. Gradually add water (or non-dairy milk) and whisk until you achieve a smooth, thick batter. The batter should be thick enough to coat the cauliflower florets without dripping off too much. If it’s too thin, add a little more flour; if it’s too thick, add more water.
Step 3: Coat the Cauliflower
Place the cauliflower florets into the bowl with the batter. Toss them gently to coat each piece evenly. Once they are fully coated, arrange the cauliflower on a greased baking sheet, making sure the pieces are spread out in a single layer. This ensures they crisp up nicely in the oven.
Step 4: Bake the Cauliflower
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy. Halfway through baking, flip the florets using tongs or a spatula to ensure they cook evenly on all sides.
Step 5: Make the Buffalo Sauce
While the cauliflower is baking, it’s time to prepare the buffalo sauce. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir everything together until the sauce is smooth and heated through. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 6: Coat the Cauliflower in Buffalo Sauce
Once the cauliflower wings are done baking and crispy, remove them from the oven. In a large bowl, pour the warm buffalo sauce over the cauliflower. Toss gently to coat the wings evenly with the sauce.
Step 7: Final Bake or Serve
If you like your buffalo wings extra crispy, return the coated cauliflower wings to the baking sheet and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes at 450°F (230°C). This step gives them an extra crunch and helps the sauce set.
Once done, remove the cauliflower buffalo wings from the oven and serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
Conservation and Storage
Cauliflower buffalo wings are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, here’s how to store them:
- Refrigeration: Allow the wings to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the cauliflower wings on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the cauliflower soggy.
- Freezing: You can freeze the baked, uncoated cauliflower wings for up to 1 month. To reheat, bake them directly from frozen with buffalo sauce for an extra crispy texture.
Variations
One of the great things about cauliflower buffalo wings is their versatility. You can adjust the recipe based on your taste preferences. Here are a few ideas for variations:
1. Spicy Buffalo Cauliflower Wings
If you love heat, increase the cayenne pepper or add more hot sauce to the buffalo sauce. This will kick the spice level up a notch and deliver a fiery punch.
2. Vegan Cauliflower Wings
For a completely vegan version, use vegan butter in the buffalo sauce and ensure the flour used is gluten-free if needed. Serve with a side of creamy vegan ranch for an indulgent treat.
3. Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower Wings
For a twist on the classic buffalo flavor, sprinkle garlic powder and parmesan cheese over the cauliflower wings after baking, along with some olive oil for extra richness.
4. Maple BBQ Cauliflower Wings
Try using a BBQ sauce mixed with maple syrup for a sweet and smoky alternative to buffalo sauce. This variation is great if you’re craving something with a balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Cauliflower buffalo wings can be enjoyed as an appetizer, snack, or main dish. Here are a few ideas for serving them:
- With Dipping Sauces: Serve your cauliflower buffalo wings with classic sides like ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing. You can also try a spicy dipping sauce like sriracha mayo or a tangy yogurt-based dip.
- On a Salad: Toss your buffalo cauliflower wings on top of a fresh salad for an extra kick. Try a spinach or kale base with some avocado, cucumber, and a creamy dressing to balance the heat.
- In a Wrap: Create a wrap using a tortilla and stuff it with buffalo cauliflower wings, lettuce, shredded carrots, and a drizzle of ranch or tahini sauce. Roll it up for a satisfying, on-the-go meal.
- With Sides: Pair the wings with healthy sides like sweet potato fries, roasted vegetables, or a fresh fruit salad to balance the spiciness.
Conclusion
Cauliflower buffalo wings offer a spicy and satisfying alternative to the traditional chicken wings, perfect for those looking to enjoy a healthier, plant-based snack or meal. With crispy, tender cauliflower coated in a flavorful buffalo sauce, these wings are sure to impress even the pickiest eaters. Not only are they easy to make, but they also offer a delicious balance of heat and flavor, making them a versatile addition to any meal.
Whether you’re serving them at a party, pairing them with your favorite sides, or enjoying them as a satisfying lunch, cauliflower buffalo wings are the ultimate spicy delight. Experiment with different variations and serving ideas to make them your own. With their bold taste and satisfying crunch, these cauliflower buffalo wings are sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation!
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Cauliflower Buffalo Wings Recipe for a Spicy Delight
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Looking for a healthier, yet equally satisfying alternative to traditional buffalo wings? Look no further than cauliflower buffalo wings! This dish offers all the bold, spicy flavors of classic buffalo wings while being completely plant-based and much lighter. Whether you’re craving a snack for game day, a quick appetizer, or just a delicious veggie-based meal, cauliflower buffalo wings are the perfect choice. These crispy, tender cauliflower florets are coated in a spicy buffalo sauce, creating a mouthwatering combination that’s impossible to resist.
Ingredients
For the Cauliflower Wings:
1 medium head of cauliflower – cut into bite-sized florets (about 4–5 cups)
1 cup all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for a gluten-free option)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (for extra flavor)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
3/4 cup water (or non-dairy milk for a creamier texture)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the baking sheet)
For the Buffalo Sauce:
1/2 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot or any preferred brand)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or dairy-free butter for a vegan option)
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions
Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Cauliflower
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets, ensuring they are roughly the same size for even cooking.
Prepare the Coating
In a large bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Gradually add water (or non-dairy milk) and whisk until you achieve a smooth, thick batter. Adjust the consistency if necessary (add more flour if too thin, more water if too thick).
Coat the Cauliflower
Toss the cauliflower florets in the batter, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Place the cauliflower on a greased baking sheet in a single layer.
Bake the Cauliflower
Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Make the Buffalo Sauce
While the cauliflower is baking, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Stir until the sauce is smooth and heated through, then remove from heat.
Coat the Cauliflower in Buffalo Sauce
Once the cauliflower wings are done, toss them in the buffalo sauce to coat evenly.
Final Bake or Serve
For extra crispiness, return the wings to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes. Otherwise, serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
Adjusting Heat Level: You can customize the heat level of the buffalo sauce by adding more or less cayenne pepper and hot sauce. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce or omit the cayenne pepper entirely.
Crispiness Tip: For extra crispy cauliflower wings, you can broil them for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, but keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Flour Alternatives: If you need a gluten-free option, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with chickpea flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
Oil Option: While olive oil is used to grease the baking sheet, you can also spray the cauliflower with olive oil spray before baking for an even lighter version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack, Vegan
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3-4 florets
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
Keywords: cauliflower, buffalo wings, plant-based, spicy, appetizer, vegan snack
