Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Recipe

If you’re craving a spicy, crispy snack that’s completely plant-based and absolutely bursting with flavor, this Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Recipe is your new best friend. These wings deliver all the fiery tang of traditional buffalo wings but with a wholesome twist that highlights crispy baked cauliflower coated in a vibrant, buttery-hot sauce. Whether you’re making them for game day, a party, or just a cozy night in, this dish promises that perfect satisfying crunch with every bite, proving that vegan can be just as indulgent and exciting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Recipe uses simple, kitchen-staple ingredients that come together effortlessly. Each component is carefully chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and color—from the light, crispy batter coating the florets to the rich, zesty buffalo sauce that makes this dish unforgettable.

• Cauliflower florets: The star of the dish, they provide a tender yet crispy base when baked.
• All-purpose or chickpea flour: Creates a smooth batter that adheres perfectly to the cauliflower.
• Plant-based milk: Adds just enough moisture to form a luscious batter that crisps nicely.
• Garlic powder: Brings warm, savory notes enhancing the overall depth of flavor.
• Onion powder: Complements the garlic with a subtle sweetness and complexity.
• Smoked paprika: Adds a smoky undertone and vibrant color, making the wings visually appealing.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and elevate all flavors.
• Cayenne pepper (optional): For those who love an extra kick of heat, it sharpens the spice level beautifully.
• Hot sauce: The heart of buffalo flavor—choose your favorite brand to personalize the heat and tang.
• Vegan butter: Melts into the sauce giving it that luscious, rich mouthfeel classic buffalo wings are known for.
• Maple syrup or agave (optional): Balances the fiery sauce with a hint of sweetness.
• Apple cider vinegar (optional): Adds a subtle tang that brightens the sauce and adds complexity.

How to Make Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This prep ensures your cauliflower won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Cut the Cauliflower

Slice the cauliflower into bite-sized florets, aiming for uniform size so they cook evenly. This step might feel simple, but it’s crucial for getting that perfect crisp on every wing.

Step 3: Whisk the Batter

Whisk together the flour, plant-based milk, and all your seasonings—garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne if you want some heat. The batter should be thick enough to cling to the cauliflower but pourable. If it’s too thick, add a splash more milk, a little at a time, until it’s just right.

Step 4: Coat the Florets

Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, completely coating it. Shake off excess batter gently and arrange them spaced out on your prepared baking sheet. This ensures each wing bakes up crisp instead of soggy.

Step 5: Bake the Cauliflower

Bake for around 20 to 25 minutes, flipping the florets halfway through so both sides turn a gorgeous golden brown and achieve that irresistible crispiness.

Step 6: Make the Buffalo Sauce

While your cauliflower bakes, whisk together the hot sauce, melted vegan butter, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar. This sauce is where all the magic happens, bringing the heat, tang, richness, and a subtle sweetness all in one.

Step 7: Toss the Cauliflower

Once baked, carefully toss the cauliflower wings in the buffalo sauce to coat every piece generously. You can do this in a bowl or right on the baking sheet for less mess.

Step 8: Bake Again to Set the Sauce

Return the sauced wings to the oven for another 5 to 7 minutes. This step locks in that vibrant buffalo flavor while helping the sauce to crisp up slightly on the edges.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Pull your vegan buffalo cauliflower wings out of the oven and get ready to serve them hot and delicious!

How to Serve Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro add a burst of color and freshness, contrasting beautifully with the spicy, tangy wings. Sprinkle them on right before serving for that extra pop.

Side Dishes

These wings beg for classic sides such as crunchy celery sticks or carrot batons and creamy vegan ranch or blue cheese dips. You can’t go wrong with these staples that balance the heat and texture perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the wings alongside a vibrant salad or pile them on a platter garnished with lemon wedges for an extra zesty touch. For a party, try stacking wings in a bread bowl with dips on the side for communal fun!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover vegan buffalo cauliflower wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They maintain their flavor well, though the texture will be crispiest fresh from the oven.

Freezing

If you want to keep these treats longer, freeze them on a baking sheet in a single layer first, then transfer to a sealed bag or container. This method prevents sticking and helps preserve their crunch for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a 400°F (200°C) oven for about 10 minutes to bring back the crispiness and warm the buffalo sauce without drying out the cauliflower. Avoid microwaving to keep that perfect texture.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap out the all-purpose flour for chickpea flour or any gluten-free flour blend you trust. Just make sure it forms a nice batter similar to the original for the best coating.

What kind of hot sauce works best?

Frank’s RedHot is the classic choice because of its perfect balance of heat and flavor, but feel free to use your favorite brand—just pick one with a good level of spice and acidity.

Is it possible to bake the wings instead of frying?

Yes! This entire Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Recipe is designed for baking, which makes it healthier and less messy while still delivering outstanding crunch and flavor.

How spicy are these wings?

The spice level can easily be tailored for your taste. Use cayenne pepper and hot sauce amounts to control heat, or skip the cayenne if you prefer a milder flavor.

Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

Fresh cauliflower gives the best texture, but if you use frozen, make sure to thaw thoroughly and pat dry to remove excess moisture so the batter adheres well and the wings crisp up.

Final Thoughts

Now that you have this incredible Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Recipe in your repertoire, I hope you’ll give it a try and see just how delightfully easy and satisfying plant-based comfort food can be. It’s spicy, crispy, and packed with flavor—perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a fun solo snack. Once you taste these, you’ll understand why they’re quickly becoming a fan favorite in the vegan world!

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