If you’re looking for a snack that brings all the puckering, spicy, and crispy goodness of buffalo wings without any animal products, you absolutely must try this Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Recipe. It’s the perfect plant-based twist on a classic favorite, delivering a satisfying crunch and fiery kick that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up with everyday ingredients that come together beautifully to create a crowd-pleasing appetizer or game day treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the right balance of ingredients is what makes this dish shine. Each component plays a vital role, from the cauliflower’s tender bite and the batter’s crispy magic to the rich, tangy buffalo sauce that ties everything together in perfect harmony.
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets: The star vegetable that crisps beautifully while staying tender inside.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for gluten-free): Forms the crispy batter coating that holds the sauce.
- 1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat): Keeps the batter smooth and binds the coating without dairy.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds savory depth to the batter.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Brings a subtle sweetness and earthiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika): Offers a smoky warmth that mellows the spicy sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Just enough bite for added complexity.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For those who love a fiery punch in their Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Recipe.
- 1/2 cup hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot recommended): The essential, spicy backbone of the buffalo sauce.
- 1/4 cup vegan butter, melted: Adds rich creaminess and helps the sauce stick to the cauliflower.
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup or agave (optional): Balances the heat with a touch of sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (optional): Brings a lovely tang that brightens the sauce.
How to Make Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First, set your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat — this makes cleanup a breeze and ensures your wings don’t stick.
Step 2: Prepare the Cauliflower
Cut your cauliflower into bite-sized florets, aiming for uniform pieces so they cook evenly and crisp up perfectly.
Step 3: Make the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, plant-based milk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper. You want a thick but pourable batter that clings well to the cauliflower. If the batter seems too thick, just add a splash more milk to loosen it up.
Step 4: Coat the Cauliflower
Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, coating it thoroughly. Shake off any extra batter before placing the florets on your prepared baking sheet so they crisp instead of clumping together.
Step 5: Bake the Cauliflower
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping the florets halfway through to ensure they get that golden brown, crispy edge on all sides.
Step 6: Prepare the Buffalo Sauce
While baking, whisk together the hot sauce, melted vegan butter, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl. Taste and tweak the balance of sweetness and tang to your liking.
Step 7: Toss the Cauliflower in Sauce
Once your cauliflower is beautifully baked, toss the florets in the sauce so every bit is coated in spicy, buttery goodness. Use a big bowl or carefully toss right on the baking sheet.
Step 8: Return to the Oven
Pop the coated cauliflower back in the oven for another 5 to 7 minutes. This final step locks in the sauce and crisps things up extra—making your Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Recipe satisfyingly crunchy.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the wings hot with your favorite vegan ranch or blue cheese dip, and sprinkle with fresh herbs if you like that little pop of green and freshness.
How to Serve Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro brightens up the spicy wings and adds a refreshing touch. A light drizzle of vegan ranch or your favorite creamy dip complements the bold buffalo sauce perfectly.
Side Dishes
Serve these vegan wings alongside crunchy celery sticks, carrot sticks, or a simple green salad for a balanced snack or appetizer spread. The cool, crisp veggies help mellow the heat and add extra texture and freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Recipe in lettuce wraps or over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to turn this into a satisfying main dish. For parties, stack them in a bowl with dipping sauces in the middle—it’s irresistible finger food bliss!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cauliflower wings keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They may lose a bit of their initial crispiness but retain all their bold flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze baked cauliflower wings after coating them in sauce by laying them flat on a parchment-lined tray. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. This way, you always have a quick snack ready to go.
Reheating
To reheat and revive the crispiness, bake leftovers or frozen wings in a 400°F (200°C) oven for about 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I make this Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Recipe spicy or mild?
Absolutely! Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the batter and the quantity or type of hot sauce in the buffalo sauce to dial up or down the heat level according to your taste buds.
Is there a gluten-free option for these wings?
Yes! Simply swap the all-purpose flour for chickpea flour or any gluten-free flour blend of your choice. This keeps the batter crispy and delicious without gluten.
Can I use a different vegetable instead of cauliflower?
While cauliflower is classic for this recipe, you can experiment with broccoli florets or even cauliflower stems. Just keep in mind the cooking time might vary slightly due to texture differences.
What’s the best dipping sauce for Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Recipe?
Vegan ranch or cashew-based blue cheese dips are fan favorites. You can also enjoy them with simple hummus or a cooling cucumber-yogurt sauce made with plant-based yogurt.
Can I make these wings oil-free?
Yes, you can reduce or omit added oil by using a baking mat and spraying or brushing the cauliflower lightly with a small amount of oil or skipping it altogether, but the texture may be less crispy. Baking longer at a high temperature helps maintain crispness.
Final Thoughts
This Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Recipe is one of those magical dishes where plant-based eats meet finger-licking comfort food. Whether you’re serving them at a party, enjoying a cozy night in, or just craving that spicy crunch, these wings deliver every time. Don’t hesitate—grab your cauliflower and get baking. Your taste buds will thank you!
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Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
These Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are a delicious, spicy, and crispy alternative to traditional chicken wings. Coated in a flavorful batter and baked to perfection, then tossed in a tangy buffalo sauce, they’re perfect as a snack, appetizer, or party food that’s completely plant-based and gluten-free when using chickpea flour.
Ingredients
Cauliflower Wings
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for a gluten-free version)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
Buffalo Sauce
- 1/2 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot or your favorite brand)
- 1/4 cup vegan butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup or agave (optional, for a slight sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for tang)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Cauliflower: Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets, making sure the pieces are about the same size for even cooking.
- Make the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, plant-based milk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. The batter should be thick enough to coat the cauliflower but still pourable. Add more milk if it’s too thick.
- Coat the Cauliflower: Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, coat completely, and shake off excess batter before placing on the prepared baking sheet. Continue with all florets.
- Bake the Cauliflower: Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Prepare the Buffalo Sauce: While baking, whisk together hot sauce, melted vegan butter, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl. Adjust sweetness and tang to taste.
- Toss the Cauliflower in Sauce: Remove baked cauliflower, toss florets carefully in buffalo sauce until well-coated, using a large bowl or the baking sheet.
- Return to the Oven: Bake coated cauliflower for an additional 5-7 minutes to allow the sauce to set and get crispier.
- Serve: Serve hot with your favorite vegan dipping sauce like vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with chickpea flour.
- If you prefer less heat, omit the cayenne pepper from the batter and adjust hot sauce amount to taste.
- Ensure cauliflower florets are similarly sized for even baking and crispiness.
- Use parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Allow the buffalo sauce to set slightly during the last bake for better coating.
- Pair with vegan ranch or blue cheese-style dressings for a classic wing experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
