Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Recipe: A Plant-Based Twist on a Classic Favorite

Looking for a spicy, crispy, and completely plant-based alternative to traditional buffalo wings? Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings offer all the flavor of the classic without the meat. These crispy cauliflower bites are coated in a flavorful batter, baked to perfection, and then smothered in tangy buffalo sauce. Serve them as a snack, appetizer, or party dish, and they’re sure to be a hit with everyone—vegan or not!

Ingredients Needed for Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

Before you get started, let’s take a quick look at the ingredients you’ll need to make these delicious vegan buffalo cauliflower wings:

Cauliflower: The star of this dish! Cauliflower florets are the perfect size and texture to mimic the shape and crunch of traditional chicken wings.
Vegan Batter for Coating: The batter is what makes these cauliflower wings crispy and flavorful. You’ll need all-purpose flour, plant-based milk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt. For a gluten-free version, you can use a gluten-free flour blend.
Buffalo Sauce: This is the magic ingredient! A combination of hot sauce, vegan butter, and garlic powder creates a rich, spicy sauce that coats the cauliflower wings in a tangy and satisfying way.

How to Make Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

Making these cauliflower wings is a simple process that results in a crispy, flavorful snack. Follow these steps for perfectly baked vegan buffalo cauliflower wings every time.

Step 1: Prep the Cauliflower

Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C). While the oven is heating up, wash and cut your cauliflower into bite-sized florets. You can leave the stems on for extra texture, but make sure the florets are roughly the same size so they cook evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter and Coat the Cauliflower

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt. Gradually add the plant-based milk, whisking until the batter is smooth. The batter should be thick enough to coat the cauliflower but not so thick that it becomes gloppy.

Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat this process until all your cauliflower florets are coated.

Step 3: Bake the Cauliflower Wings

Once the cauliflower is coated, bake it in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. This will help the cauliflower wings crisp up on all sides. You want them golden and slightly crispy, but not too dark.

Step 4: Coat with Buffalo Sauce and Serve

While the cauliflower is baking, prepare your buffalo sauce by melting the vegan butter and mixing it with the hot sauce and garlic powder in a small bowl.

Once your cauliflower wings are baked and crispy, take them out of the oven and toss them in the buffalo sauce. Make sure each wing is evenly coated. If you like your wings extra spicy, feel free to add more hot sauce to taste!

Tips for the Best Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

Achieving the Perfect Crispiness

To get those perfect crispy edges, make sure your batter is thick enough to stick to the cauliflower. Also, bake the wings on a parchment-lined baking sheet with enough space between them. This allows the hot air to circulate and crisp them up. If you prefer an even crispier texture, you can also finish the wings under the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.

Adjusting the Spice Level

Buffalo sauce can be as mild or as spicy as you like. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of hot sauce, or add a little sweetness with a tablespoon of maple syrup. For extra heat, increase the hot sauce or add cayenne pepper to your buffalo sauce.

Making Ahead and Storing Leftovers

These vegan buffalo cauliflower wings are best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the wings back in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to get them crispy again.

Health Benefits of Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

These cauliflower wings aren’t just delicious—they’re also packed with nutrients and offer several health benefits:

Low in Calories and Packed with Nutrients: Cauliflower is low in calories but rich in fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants that support your immune system and overall health.
A Great Source of Fiber and Antioxidants: The fiber in cauliflower helps with digestion, while the antioxidants protect your cells from damage and promote healthy skin.
Perfect for Vegan, Gluten-Free, and Dairy-Free Diets: These cauliflower wings are naturally vegan, gluten-free (when using gluten-free flour), and dairy-free, making them a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings for Every Occasion

These buffalo cauliflower wings are perfect for any occasion, from casual game day snacks to elegant party appetizers.

Perfect for Parties and Game Day: Whether you're watching the big game or hosting a gathering, these wings will be the star of the show. Serve them with a side of vegan ranch dressing or celery sticks for a classic pairing.
How to Serve These Wings with Dips: In addition to ranch dressing, you can also serve these wings with vegan blue cheese dip, guacamole, or even a tangy lemon tahini sauce for a flavorful twist.
Pairing with Your Favorite Beverages: These wings go perfectly with a cold craft beer, a fizzy sparkling water, or a classic iced tea. Choose your favorite beverage to complement the heat of the buffalo sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make these wings ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the cauliflower wings and store them in the fridge before baking. When ready to eat, just bake and coat them with buffalo sauce.
Can I make the buffalo sauce milder? Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of hot sauce, or add a bit of maple syrup or agave nectar for sweetness.
Can I make these wings gluten-free? Yes! Just use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour, and you’re good to go.
Can I deep fry the cauliflower instead of baking it? Yes, you can deep fry the cauliflower for an even crispier result, but baking is a healthier option.
How do I know when the wings are fully cooked? The wings should be golden and crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. If you insert a fork into the largest piece, it should go in easily.

Conclusion

These Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are the perfect combination of crispy, spicy, and tangy flavors. They’re a healthier, plant-based alternative to traditional buffalo wings and will satisfy your cravings for something crunchy

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Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Recipe: A Plant-Based Twist on a Classic Favorite