Vegan Buffalo Wings Recipe That Everyone Will Love

If you’re craving the bold, spicy kick of classic buffalo wings but want to keep things plant-based, this vegan buffalo wings recipe is your new best friend. Perfectly crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated in a tangy, fiery buffalo sauce, these wings are a crowd-pleaser for vegans and non-vegans alike.

Whether you’re hosting a game day party or just want a delicious snack, these wings deliver all the flavor without any chicken involved.

Using simple ingredients like cauliflower or tofu, combined with a homemade buffalo sauce, this recipe is easy to prepare and healthier than traditional wings. Plus, baking or air frying keeps the mess and oil to a minimum.

Dive into this step-by-step guide and enjoy a guilt-free, spicy treat that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan buffalo wings recipe is a perfect blend of spicy, tangy, and crispy textures, making it incredibly satisfying. It’s:

• Easy to make: Requires minimal prep and simple ingredients.
• Healthy and plant-based: Uses wholesome vegetables or tofu instead of meat.
• Customizable: Choose your preferred base – cauliflower, tofu, or seitan.
• Perfect for any occasion: Great for parties, snacks, or weeknight dinners.
• Oil-conscious: Baked or air-fried to reduce excess oil without sacrificing crunch.

Ingredients

• 1 medium head cauliflower (cut into bite-sized florets) or 400g firm tofu (pressed and cut into bite-sized cubes)
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
• 3/4 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, soy, oat, etc.)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
• 1/2 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
• 3 tbsp vegan butter (melted)
• 1 tbsp maple syrup (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
• Celery sticks and vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing (for serving)

Equipment

• Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
• Large mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Tongs or fork for dipping
• Air fryer (optional, for crispier wings)
• Small saucepan (for buffalo sauce)

Instructions

1. Prep the cauliflower or tofu: Wash and cut cauliflower into bite-size florets or press and cube firm tofu. Set aside.
2. Make the batter: In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, plant-based milk, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Coat the wings: Dip each cauliflower floret or tofu cube into the batter, letting excess drip off, then roll it in panko breadcrumbs to coat thoroughly.
4. Arrange for baking: Place coated pieces on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through until golden and crispy. Alternatively, place in a preheated air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.
5. Prepare the buffalo sauce: While baking, melt vegan butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in hot sauce and maple syrup until well combined. Remove from heat.
6. Toss wings in sauce: Once baked, transfer wings to a large bowl. Pour buffalo sauce over and toss gently to coat evenly.
7. Final bake or air fry: Spread the sauced wings back on the baking sheet or air fryer basket. Bake or air fry for another 5-7 minutes to set the sauce and crisp up.
8. Serve immediately: Plate the wings with celery sticks and your favorite vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.

Tips & Variations

Pro tip: For extra crispy wings, double-coat your cauliflower or tofu by dipping twice in batter and breadcrumbs.

• Spice it up: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the batter for an extra kick.
• Sweet & spicy: Mix a tablespoon of agave or honey substitute into the buffalo sauce for a sweet heat balance.
• Different bases: Try using seitan or tempeh strips for a meatier texture.
• Dipping sauces: Experiment with vegan blue cheese, ranch, or even a cooling cucumber dip.
• Oven vs. air fryer: Both work well, but air fryer wings tend to be crispier with less oil.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These vegan buffalo wings are fantastic served with crunchy celery sticks and a side of creamy vegan ranch or blue cheese dip. They also pair well with crispy fries, sweet potato wedges, or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.

For a game day spread, include a variety of dips and veggies, or serve alongside some hearty [slow cooker vegan recipes] to keep everyone satisfied. For dessert, try a light treat like the [Vegetarian Date Cake] to balance the spice.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a long-time vegan or simply looking to try a plant-based twist on a classic favorite, these vegan buffalo wings are sure to impress. They bring all the heat, flavor, and crunch you love from traditional wings but with healthier ingredients and no animal products.

Perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a comforting snack, this recipe proves that vegan cooking can be exciting and delicious.

Ready to expand your vegan recipe repertoire? Check out our [Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes] for a luscious sauce to elevate your meals, or try the [Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves] to bake fresh bread that pairs perfectly with these wings.

For more vibrant vegetable dishes bursting with flavor, explore our [Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals].

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