The aroma of spicy buffalo sauce wafted through my kitchen as I prepared my all-time favorite game day snack, Crispy Baked Buffalo Cauliflower Wings. These bites are a delightful twist on a classic, marrying the excitement of traditional wings with a healthier profile that satisfies both vegans and meat lovers alike. With just six simple ingredients, they come together quickly, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or cozy family dinners. What sets these cauliflower wings apart is their incredible crunch—actually baked for that guilt-free pleasure, they deliver the same satisfying texture as traditional wings. Serve them with a zesty dip, and you’ll have everyone coming back for seconds! Curious about how to make these irresistible bites for your next get-together? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why Are Buffalo Cauliflower Wings So Popular? Flavorful indulgence: These Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are packed with a zesty kick that rivals traditional wings, making your taste buds dance with delight. Healthier choice: Enjoy the satisfaction of crispy wings without the guilt—they’re vegan, gluten-free, and lower in calories! Quick preparation: With just six simple ingredients, whipping up a batch is a breeze, perfect for spontaneous gatherings or dedicated game days. Crowd favorite: Whether you’re serving meat lovers or plant-based eaters, these wings are sure to impress and keep everyone coming back for more. Endless versatility: Feel free to experiment with sauces or add spices to the coating for a unique twist—try swapping in teriyaki sauce for a sweet surprise! Check out my delicious Bbq Wings Next for more crowd-pleasing snack ideas! Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Ingredients • Gather the essentials to create these delicious Buffalo Cauliflower Wings that are perfect for any occasion! For the Wings Cauliflower – The main star, cut into florets, providing a base that holds all the flavors. Oil Spray – Enables a crisp texture; feel free to swap for vegetable oil if you prefer. Flour (or Almond Meal) – Forms the coating’s structure; for gluten-free options, almond flour works beautifully. Garlic Powder – Adds savory depth; fresh garlic can be used for a more potent kick. Milk of Choice – Binds the coating; any non-dairy milk is a perfect vegan alternative. Breadcrumbs (optional) – Offers extra crunch; opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed. For the Sauce Buffalo Sauce (or Hot Sauce) – Infuses that signature spicy flavor; adjust the heat level according to your taste. Butter (or Oil) – Aids in coating adherence; for a vegan twist, use dairy-free butter or oil. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. This preparation will help the Buffalo Cauliflower Wings crisp up perfectly while baking, giving you that delightful crunch everyone loves. Step 2: Prepare the Cauliflower In a large mixing bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with an oil spray or a tablespoon of oil until they are evenly coated. This step is essential to achieving that crispy exterior. Visually check that the florets glisten with oil, ensuring they can absorb all the flavors and crisp up beautifully in the oven. Step 3: Coat with Flour Mixture In another bowl, combine flour with garlic powder and mix well. Then, coat the oil-sprayed cauliflower florets with this flour mixture until they are thoroughly covered. This layer provides the crunchy texture you’ll crave in your Buffalo Cauliflower Wings, enhancing both flavor and appearance as they bake. Step 4: Add Breadcrumbs and Milk If you’re using breadcrumbs for extra crunch, mix them in with a splash of your chosen milk in the same bowl. Coat the cauliflower florets again, ensuring every piece is coated evenly. This additional layer will give your wings that satisfying crunch while maintaining a lovely internal tenderness. Step 5: Bake the Cauliflower Spread the coated florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Watch for the edges to become slightly darker, indicating that your Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are nearly ready to absorb that delicious sauce. Step 6: Prepare the Buffalo Sauce While the cauliflower wings are baking, melt butter or heat your oil in a separate bowl. Mix in the Buffalo sauce thoroughly until well combined, creating a rich and spicy coating that will make these wings irresistible. This sauce will give your florets their signature flavor, so don’t skip this step! Step 7: Sauce the Cauliflower After 25 minutes, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Carefully dip each baked cauliflower floret into the Buffalo sauce mixture until well coated, then return them to the baking sheet. This step adds the zingy flavor you expect from Buffalo Cauliflower Wings, elevating them to the next level of deliciousness. Step 8: Final Bake Return the coated cauliflower to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes. For an extra dimension of crispiness, consider broiling for 3-5 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning. The final bake will create a crispy, sticky exterior that enhances the flavor of your Buffalo Cauliflower Wings. Step 9: Serve and Enjoy Once baked to perfection, remove the wings from the oven and serve them warm. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces, such as vegan ranch or blue cheese, and enjoy with fresh celery and carrot sticks. These delightful Buffalo Cauliflower Wings will surely impress family and friends alike! How to Store and Freeze Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain the wings’ crispy texture, reheat them in the oven, avoiding the microwave. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze baked cauliflower wings in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheating: When ready to eat, reheat from frozen in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until crispy and heated through. Packing Tips: To keep your Buffalo Cauliflower Wings crispy during storage, consider using parchment paper between layers in your container to absorb moisture. Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative with these Buffalo Cauliflower Wings and make them uniquely yours—play with flavors and textures to delight the whole family! Dairy-Free: Replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter to keep it plant-based and delicious. Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce directly into the flour mixture for an extra layer of heat. If you love the fiery challenge, don’t hold back! Sweet Tang: Swap buffalo sauce for honey mustard or teriyaki sauce for a sweet and savory twist. Your taste buds will be pleasantly surprised! Nut-Free: Use oat flour instead of almond flour to create a nut-free coating that still retains crunch. It’s amazing how versatile gluten-free options can be! Herb Infusion: Enhance flavor by mixing in dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or basil with the flour mixture. Fresh herbs can elevate the taste to new heights! Crunchy Coating: For a unique texture, mix panko breadcrumbs with ground flaxseed or finely crushed nuts for added crunch. This change creates a delightful surprise in every bite! Flavor Fusion: Experiment with different sauces like barbecue or garlic parmesan to take these wings in a new direction. Each option has its own audience of fans! Veggie Power: Toss in veggies like zucchini or bell peppers alongside cauliflower for a colorful and nutritious platter. Pair them with the wings for a complete spread! Want more enticing ideas? Try my scrumptious Bbq Wings Next or get inspired by other easy snacks that wow your guests! Make Ahead Options These Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can easily prepare the cauliflower florets with oil and flour coating up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the coated florets in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy, just bake them in the oven and finish with the buffalo sauce as directed. If you have leftovers, they can be stored for up to 3 days and re-crisped in the oven for a quick snack that’s just as delicious as when first made. Embrace the convenience of meal prep and indulge in these satisfying wings! What to Serve with Crispy Baked Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Elevate your gathering with delightful sides and drinks that perfectly complement the spice and crunch of these cauliflower wings. Veggie Sticks & Dip: Fresh celery and carrot sticks provide a refreshing crunch that counters the spicy wings—perfect for dipping into ranch or blue cheese. Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Their naturally sweet flavor and crispy texture create a delicious contrast while keeping the meal healthy and satisfying. Classic Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw balances the heat of the wings and adds a refreshing, crunchy element to your plate. This adds a colorful, eye-catching side! Savory Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers offers a nutritious, slightly tangy flavor—it’s a lovely companion to the spicy wings! Cooling Cucumber Salad: Thinly sliced cucumbers in a tangy dressing can soothe the palate, offering a refreshing break between bites of the spicy wings. Craft Beer or Cider: A crisp craft beer or a refreshing hard cider pairs wonderfully with the savory notes of the wings, enhancing the overall snacking experience. Pineapple Mojito: This light and fruity mocktail brings a tropical flair to your meal, cooling off the spice with its refreshing mint and citrus notes. Chocolate Avocado Mousse: Surprise your guests with this luscious dessert that beautifully contrasts the bold flavors of the meal, providing a satisfying finish. Tips for the Best Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Crispy Perfection: Ensure not to overcrowd the baking sheet. This allows for proper air circulation, making your Buffalo Cauliflower Wings perfectly crispy on all sides. Flavor Boost: Experiment with adding spices like smoked paprika or cayenne to the flour mixture. This enhances the flavor and adds a touch of warmth to your Buffalo Cauliflower Wings. Breadcrumb Alternatives: If opting for breadcrumbs, use gluten-free options to maintain dietary suitability. This ensures everyone can enjoy these tasty snacks! Watch the Broil: When broiling for extra crispiness, keep a close eye on your cauliflower. A minute too long can mean burnt wings instead of crispy perfection. Serving Fresh: For the best experience, serve your Buffalo Cauliflower Wings immediately after baking. This preserves their warmth and crunch, making them an irresistible snack. Storage Smart: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Re-crisp by baking until heated through, keeping their delicious texture intact. Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best cauliflower for Buffalo Cauliflower Wings? Absolutely! Look for firm, bright white cauliflower heads without dark spots or blemishes. The florets should be tightly packed and fresh, indicating a flavorful base for your Buffalo Cauliflower Wings. Also, if you can, try to choose organic cauliflower to enhance the dish’s health benefits. How should I store leftover Buffalo Cauliflower Wings? To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, when you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes. This method ensures they retain their delightful crunch! Can I freeze Buffalo Cauliflower Wings? Very! To freeze them, allow the wings to cool completely. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the wings to an airtight container or freezer bag, separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be stored for up to 3 months! What can I do if the wings aren’t crispy enough after baking? If your Buffalo Cauliflower Wings don’t turn out as crispy as you’d hoped, try a couple of things! First, ensure the cauliflower pieces are evenly coated with the oil and flour mixture. Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; leaving space between the florets allows heat to circulate, promoting crispiness. If they still need a little extra crunch, a couple of minutes under the broiler can enhance their texture—just keep a watchful eye to prevent burning! Are Buffalo Cauliflower Wings safe for pets? It’s always better to be cautious. While the ingredients in Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are generally safe for pets in small amounts, the spicy Buffalo sauce can be irritating to their stomach. I recommend keeping these human treats away from your furry friends and sticking to pet-friendly snacks for them! Can I make these wings gluten-free and vegan? Sure thing! To make vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings, simply use almond flour instead of regular flour and non-dairy milk. For a gluten-free option, you can easily swap out regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free ones. These adjustments will still give you that satisfying crunch while catering to specific dietary needs. Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Wings that Wow Every Snack Lover Enjoy these Buffalo Cauliflower Wings, a healthier twist on a classic game day snack that delights both vegans and meat lovers. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 40 minutes minsTotal Time 55 minutes mins Servings: 4 wingsCourse: SnacksCuisine: AmericanCalories: 220 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Wings1 head Cauliflower cut into florets4 sprays Oil Spray or vegetable oil1 cup Flour or almond meal for gluten-free1 teaspoon Garlic Powder or fresh garlic1 cup Milk of Choice any non-dairy option1 cup Breadcrumbs optional, use gluten-free if preferredFor the Sauce1 cup Buffalo Sauce or hot sauce2 tablespoons Butter or dairy-free alternative Equipment OvenBaking SheetParchment PaperMixing bowls Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Buffalo Cauliflower WingsPreheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.Toss the cauliflower florets with oil spray or oil until evenly coated.In another bowl, combine flour and garlic powder, mix well, then coat the cauliflower in this mixture.If using breadcrumbs, mix them in with a splash of milk and coat the cauliflower once more.Spread coated florets on the baking sheet and bake for about 25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.While wings bake, melt butter or heat oil and mix in Buffalo sauce until well combined.Dip each baked cauliflower floret into the Buffalo sauce mixture until well coated, then return them to the baking sheet.Bake for an additional 15 minutes or broil for 3-5 minutes for extra crispiness.Serve warm with dipping sauces like vegan ranch or blue cheese, enjoy! Nutrition Serving: 4wingsCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 6gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 1mg NotesFor the best experience, serve wings immediately after baking to keep them warm and crispy. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
