Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Recipe Vegan and Delicious Ideas

If you’re craving the spicy, tangy kick of buffalo wings but want to keep it plant-based and wholesome, these Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are the perfect game-day or snack-time treat. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these wings pack all the bold flavors of traditional buffalo sauce without the meat.

Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just looking to add more veggies to your diet, this recipe is a delicious and satisfying alternative that everyone will love.

What makes these wings special is the crispy, flavorful coating and the vibrant buffalo sauce that clings perfectly to each bite. Plus, they’re baked instead of fried, making them a healthier option that doesn’t sacrifice any of the fun.

Ready in under an hour, these wings are ideal for quick weeknight dinners or impressing guests at your next gathering. Let’s dive into this easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are a fantastic way to enjoy the classic buffalo flavor without the guilt or animal products. Here’s why this recipe stands out:

• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and fresh cauliflower for an easy prep.
• Crispy Texture: Lightly battered and baked to perfection for a satisfying crunch.
• Flavorful Sauce: The homemade buffalo sauce is tangy, spicy, and perfectly balanced.
• Vegan & Allergy-Friendly: Dairy-free, egg-free, and easily adaptable for gluten-free diets.
• Versatile: Great as an appetizer, snack, or even a main course with sides.

If you love bold flavors and crispy bites, this recipe will become your go-to for healthier “wing” cravings.

Ingredients

• 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
• 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, soy, oat, etc.)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 3/4 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
• 2 tablespoons vegan butter, melted
• Optional: celery sticks and vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing for serving

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Small saucepan
• Tongs or fork for tossing
• Cooling rack (optional, but recommended for extra crispiness)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the plant-based milk, flour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth and thick enough to coat the cauliflower. It should have a pancake batter consistency.
3. Coat the cauliflower: Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess batter and place the florets onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, leaving space between each piece.
4. Bake the cauliflower: Bake for 20 minutes, flipping the florets halfway through to ensure even browning. The coating should start to get crispy and golden.
5. Make the buffalo sauce: While the cauliflower bakes, melt the vegan butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in the hot sauce until well combined. Remove from heat.
6. Toss in buffalo sauce: Once the cauliflower has baked for 20 minutes, remove it from the oven and carefully toss the florets in the buffalo sauce using tongs or a fork. Make sure each piece is well coated.
7. Final bake: Return the coated cauliflower to the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. This step helps the sauce set and the wings become extra crispy.
8. Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve immediately with celery sticks and your favorite vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.

Tips & Variations

For extra crispiness, place a cooling rack on top of your baking sheet and bake the cauliflower on the rack. This allows air to circulate and prevents sogginess.

• Spice it up: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the batter or sauce for more heat.
• Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free flour blend and check your hot sauce ingredients to keep it gluten-free.
• Air fryer method: Cook the battered cauliflower in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes, shaking halfway through, then toss in sauce and air fry 5 more minutes.
• Different sauces: Try swapping the buffalo sauce for BBQ sauce, teriyaki, or a spicy garlic sauce for a new twist.
• Make it a meal: Serve over a bed of greens or with vegan mac and cheese for a hearty dinner.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Buffalo cauliflower wings are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of sides and dips. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

• Serve with crunchy celery and carrot sticks alongside classic vegan ranch or blue cheese dip.
• Make a loaded vegan nachos platter with these wings on top for a spicy, crunchy twist.
• Pair with a fresh green salad or coleslaw for a lighter option.
• Try them with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes for a comforting meal.
• Include as part of a vegan appetizer spread with other favorites like Cajun Ranch Wing Sauce Recipe or Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food.

Conclusion

These Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are a fantastic way to enjoy the bold flavors and textures of classic buffalo wings while keeping things plant-based and delicious. They’re easy to make, customizable, and sure to satisfy any craving for spicy, crispy bites.

Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a fun appetizer, or just want a tasty snack, this recipe delivers on taste and nutrition without compromising on fun.

Don’t forget to check out some of our other tasty recipes to complement your meal, like the Lemon Straws Recipe for a sweet finish or the Halibut Dip Recipe for a savory side. Happy cooking and enjoy your buffalo cauliflower wings!

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