How to Make the Perfect Buffalo Cauliflower Wings
American · Easy · 45 min · 4 servings
These crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are a crowd-pleasing vegan appetizer that delivers all the heat and flavor of traditional buffalo wings. Made entirely from plant-based ingredients, this vegan dish is perfect for game day, parties, or any casual gathering.
Why this recipe works
This Buffalo Cauliflower Wings recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 45 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 210 calories with 6g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 1 head cauliflower cut into florets
- 0.75 cup all-purpose flour
- 0.75 cup unsweetened plant-based milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 cup buffalo hot sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegan butter melted
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Batter
Preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl whisk together the flour, plant-based milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until a smooth batter forms.
Step 2: Coat the Cauliflower
Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, letting any excess drip off, then place them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure the florets are not touching each other to ensure even crisping.
Step 3: First Bake
Bake the battered cauliflower in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the batter is set and lightly golden. The florets should be firm to the touch when done.
Step 4: Toss in Buffalo Sauce
While the cauliflower bakes, whisk together the buffalo hot sauce and melted vegan butter in a large bowl. Remove the cauliflower from the oven and toss each piece generously in the buffalo sauce mixture.
Step 5: Final Bake and Serve
Return the sauced cauliflower to the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10 minutes until caramelized and sticky. Serve immediately with vegan ranch or celery sticks.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- all-purpose flour → gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version
- buffalo hot sauce → sriracha mixed with a splash of apple cider vinegar for a different heat profile
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Overcrowding the baking sheet which causes the cauliflower to steam instead of crisp
- Skipping the second bake after saucing which results in a soggy coating
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 210 calories, 6g protein, 28g carbs, 9g fat, 4g fiber.
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