If you’ve been searching for the perfect snack that’s crispy, vegan, and bursting with flavor, look no further than these Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings. Whether you’re a plant-based foodie or someone just trying to eat healthier, you’ll love these guilt-free wings that replicate the bold taste and texture of classic buffalo wings without any of the meat!
This recipe is a game-changer for anyone who craves the spicy, tangy kick of buffalo sauce but wants to keep meals clean, plant-based, or gluten-free. With a perfectly crispy coating, tender cauliflower, and a mouthwatering buffalo glaze, these wings check all the boxes: delicious, satisfying, and easy to make.
Not only are these vegan cauliflower wings ideal for game days, parties, or potlucks, but they’re also perfect as a weeknight snack or side dish. Packed with nutrients, they’re a healthier alternative to traditional chicken wings while delivering the same bold flavor punch.
So grab your apron, heat up the oven, and let’s dive into this spicy and guilt-free delight. By the end of this post, you’ll learn everything you need to know why this recipe works, the best ingredients to use, and plenty of variations to make it your own. Let’s wing it!
Why You’ll Love Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings
It’s hard not to fall in love with a plate full of spicy, crispy, and well-seasoned cauliflower wings, and here’s why:
- They’re surprisingly easy to make: Even if this is your first attempt at homemade wings, this step-by-step guide will make the process foolproof.
- Healthier than chicken wings: Cauliflower is low in calories and high in fiber, making these wings a lighter, plant-based snack option compared to traditional wings.
- Dietary flexibility: Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free, this recipe accommodates a variety of diets with simple ingredient swaps.
- Packed with flavor: The combination of smoky paprika, seasoned breadcrumbs, and tangy buffalo sauce makes each bite irresistible.
- Perfect for any event: Serve them as party appetizers, comforting finger food, or even with a side of salad or grain to turn them into a meal.
These wings aren’t just food they’re an experience. You’ll love how the tender cauliflower contrasts with the crispy coating and how the fiery buffalo sauce pairs beautifully with your favorite creamy dips like ranch or blue cheese. It’s indulgence made healthy!
Ingredients
Let’s talk about the stars of the dish! Here’s everything you’ll need to make the best vegan buffalo cauliflower wings at home:
Main Ingredients:
- Cauliflower: One medium head, cut into florets. Aim for bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
- All-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour): Forms the batter base and gives the wings that crispy texture.
- Plant-based milk: Unsweetened almond, soy, or oat milk works best. Avoid sweetened or vanilla-flavored options.
- Breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs): Adds a layer of crunch. Look for panko-style breadcrumbs for maximum crispiness.
For the Spicy Buffalo Sauce:
- Hot sauce: Frank’s RedHot is a classic choice! Go for your favorite if you prefer more heat or less spice.
- Vegan butter: Helps smoothen and mellow out the spicy kick, ensuring the sauce evenly coats each wing.
- Garlic powder: For an extra savory punch.
Helpful Optional Ingredients:
- Smoked paprika: Adds a smoky depth to the batter.
- Fresh parsley or chives: Use as garnish for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Tips for Success:
- Cut the cauliflower into uniform-sized florets to ensure even cooking.
- Use panko breadcrumbs if you want perfectly crispy wings.
- Don’t skip the vegan butter in the sauce it’s essential for that authentic buffalo wing flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to make your vegan buffalo cauliflower wings? Let’s break it down step-by-step.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This step ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine:
- 1 cup of all-purpose (or gluten-free) flour
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- A pinch of salt and black pepper
Next, whisk in 1 cup of plant-based milk until the batter reaches a smooth consistency. This will coat the cauliflower perfectly.
Step 3: Coat and Add Crunch
Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, roll it in breadcrumbs to give it that extra crunch factor. Place the coated florets on your lined baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake the Wings
Bake the wings in your preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure both sides are crispy and golden.
Step 5: Make the Buffalo Sauce
While the wings bake, prepare your buffalo sauce by melting ½ cup of vegan butter and whisking it together with ¾ cup of hot sauce and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Adjust the spice level as needed!
Step 6: Toss Wings in Sauce
Once the wings are baked to golden perfection, transfer them into a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the prepared buffalo sauce over the wings and gently toss until every piece is coated.
Step 7: Return to Oven (Optional)
If you prefer your wings a little drier or extra crispy, spread them back onto the baking sheet and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes.
Expert Tips
- Achieve extra crispiness: Spray the wings lightly with cooking oil before baking.
- Air-fryer option: Save time by air-frying your wings at 400°F (204°C) for about 15 minutes (flipping halfway).
- Prepare ahead: You can coat the cauliflower with batter, refrigerate it for a few hours, and bake right before serving.
- Tame the spice level: Add a bit more vegan butter to the buffalo sauce if you want to tone down the heat.
Variations
Want to customize your wings? Here are a few fun ideas:
- Sweet and Spicy: Mix buffalo sauce with a drizzle of maple syrup for a perfect sweet-heat combo.
- BBQ Cauliflower Wings: Swap out the buffalo sauce for tangy BBQ sauce. Perfect for kids or spice-averse guests.
- Keto-Friendly: Use almond flour instead of regular flour and skip the breadcrumbs.
- Asian-Inspired: Toss the baked wings in a mix of hoisin sauce, sriracha, and sesame oil, then garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
Serving Suggestions
These mouthwatering buffalo cauliflower wings can shine on their own, but if you want to create the perfect spread, pair them with:
- Dips: Serve with vegan ranch, blue cheese dressing, or even guacamole for a cooling contrast.
- Sides: Crispy sweet potato fries or a crunchy celery and carrot stick platter balance the heat.
- Mains: Add these wings to a bed of greens, quinoa, or wraps for a complete meal.
FAQ
1. How do I store leftover cauliflower wings?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes to restore crispiness.
2. Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the battered cauliflower a few hours in advance, refrigerate it, and bake right before serving.
3. Are these gluten-free?
They can be! Just use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
4. Can I freeze vegan buffalo cauliflower wings?
While you can freeze them, the texture may change upon reheating. It’s best to bake, freeze, and reheat in the oven for better results.
Conclusion
There you have it: bold, spicy, and guilt-free Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings that will leave you and your guests craving more. With their addictive crunch, fiery buffalo sauce, and healthier plant-based ingredients, these wings are destined to become a regular feature in your kitchen.
Try this recipe for your next game day, potluck, or cozy night in. Trust me you won’t miss the chicken one bit! Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments and tag us on social media when you make them. Enjoy your spicy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying snack!
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10 Reasons to Try Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings: Bold, Spicy, and Guilt-Free
Crispy, spicy, and guilt-free, these Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are the ultimate plant-based snack. Perfect for game days, parties, or a cozy night in, they’re packed with bold buffalo flavor and a satisfying crunch. Easy to make, healthy, and completely customizable, these wings will be your new favorite indulgence.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
- 1 cup plant-based milk (unsweetened almond, soy, or oat milk)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
For the Spicy Buffalo Sauce
- ¾ cup hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot)
- ½ cup vegan butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Optional Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Prepare Batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup flour, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Gradually whisk in 1 cup plant-based milk until smooth.
- Coat Cauliflower: Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring full coverage. Then coat with breadcrumbs for extra crunch. Place florets on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Make Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together melted vegan butter, hot sauce, and garlic powder. Adjust spice level as needed.
- Toss Wings: Once baked, transfer the cauliflower to a large bowl. Drizzle the buffalo sauce over the wings and gently toss to coat.
- Optional Second Bake: For extra crispiness, return the wings to the baking sheet and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or chives and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- To make gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
- For less spice, add more vegan butter to the buffalo sauce.
- For an air-fryer option, cook at 400°F (204°C) for 15 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup
- Calories: ~200 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg