Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Recipe

Introduction

Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are a delicious, plant-based alternative to traditional chicken wings, offering all the bold, spicy flavor of Buffalo sauce while being light, crispy, and satisfying. Perfectly roasted cauliflower florets are coated in a tangy, spicy Buffalo sauce, delivering the same great taste as classic wings but with a healthier twist. Whether you’re looking to add a veggie-based option to your next game day spread or enjoy a flavorful snack, these Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are sure to please.

With their crispy exterior and tender interior, these wings can be enjoyed by everyone—whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just looking to eat a bit lighter. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or main course, these cauliflower wings are a fun, easy-to-make treat that will elevate your meal. This guide will walk you through every step of preparing these tasty wings, share tips for perfecting them, and suggest fun variations to suit your tastes.

Why You’ll Love Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

• Flavorful and Bold: The tangy, spicy Buffalo sauce coats the cauliflower florets perfectly, giving them the bold flavor you crave in traditional Buffalo wings. The perfect balance of heat and tanginess is sure to leave you coming back for more.
• Crispy and Satisfying: While cauliflower is naturally tender, roasting it with a crispy batter makes for a satisfying crunch that mimics the texture of traditional wings. Every bite is perfectly crispy on the outside, with a soft and juicy interior.
• Plant-Based and Healthier: These cauliflower wings provide a delicious, plant-based alternative to chicken wings. They’re lower in calories and fat, yet still packed with flavor, making them a great choice for those seeking healthier options.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in less than an hour, making it a perfect weeknight snack, appetizer, or party food. The preparation is simple, and the cooking time is quick, so you won’t have to wait long to enjoy these delicious wings.
• Versatile: Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are incredibly versatile. You can adjust the level of heat by adding more or less hot sauce, or even customize them with different seasonings or dipping sauces to suit your taste.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4-6 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 120-150 calories per serving, depending on portion size and ingredients used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 120-150 kcal
• Fat: 6-8g
• Carbohydrates: 15-20g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 3-5g

Ingredients

For the Buffalo Cauliflower Wings:

• 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for gluten-free)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of your choice)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup Buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon melted vegan butter (or regular butter if not vegan)
• Optional: Fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish)

For the Homemade Buffalo Sauce (if making from scratch):

• ½ cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or vegan butter)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cauliflower

Begin by cutting the cauliflower into small, bite-sized florets. The florets should be about the size of traditional chicken wings to ensure even cooking. If some pieces are too large, simply cut them down to a manageable size.

Once you’ve cut the cauliflower, give it a rinse under cold water and pat it dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This will help the batter adhere better and ensure the wings get crispy during roasting.

2. Make the Batter

In a large bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. These seasonings will give the batter a subtle flavor that complements the bold Buffalo sauce.

Next, slowly whisk in the almond milk (or the milk of your choice) until the batter is smooth and well-combined. The consistency should be thick enough to coat the cauliflower but not too runny. If the batter seems too thick, add a splash of milk to thin it out slightly.

Once the batter is ready, dip each cauliflower floret into the mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Tap off any excess batter before placing it on the baking sheet.

3. Prepare the Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to ensure that the cauliflower wings don’t stick and bake evenly.

Place the battered cauliflower florets onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure there’s some space between each piece so that the wings cook evenly and get crispy on all sides.

Drizzle the cauliflower with olive oil, which will help crisp them up in the oven. If you prefer, you can also spray the florets with a light coating of cooking spray.

4. Bake the Cauliflower Wings

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cauliflower wings for 20-25 minutes, or until the batter is golden brown and crispy. Halfway through baking, flip the florets over to ensure they cook evenly on both sides.

The cauliflower should be tender on the inside and crispy on the outside. If they are not crispy enough, you can bake them for an additional 5-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.

5. Prepare the Buffalo Sauce

While the cauliflower is baking, prepare the Buffalo sauce. If you’re using store-bought Buffalo sauce, simply mix it with melted butter in a small bowl. If you prefer to make your own, combine the hot sauce, melted butter, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and salt in a saucepan over low heat. Stir occasionally until the sauce is heated through and well combined.

Once the sauce is ready, set it aside until the cauliflower wings are finished baking.

6. Coat the Cauliflower Wings in Buffalo Sauce

After the cauliflower wings have finished baking and are crispy and golden, remove them from the oven. Place the baked wings into a large bowl and pour the prepared Buffalo sauce over them. Toss the wings gently to coat them evenly in the sauce, making sure each floret is fully covered.

For extra flavor, you can drizzle more Buffalo sauce on top after coating the wings, depending on your spice preference.

7. Serve and Garnish

Once the wings are fully coated in Buffalo sauce, transfer them back to the baking sheet or a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and added freshness.

Serve the Buffalo Cauliflower Wings hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or a dairy-free alternative. They’re perfect for dipping and add an extra layer of flavor.

Tips for Perfect Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

• Dry the Cauliflower Well: Moisture can prevent the batter from sticking properly. Be sure to pat the cauliflower florets dry with paper towels before dipping them into the batter.
• Crispier Texture: For an even crispier result, try lightly spraying the cauliflower with olive oil or cooking spray before baking. This helps the batter become even more golden and crunchy.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer milder wings, reduce the amount of hot sauce in the Buffalo sauce. You can also add a little honey or maple syrup to balance out the heat.
• Bake on a Wire Rack: If you want the cauliflower wings to be extra crispy, place them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This allows air to circulate around the wings, making them crispier on all sides.
• Add Extra Flavor to the Batter: Don’t be afraid to get creative with the seasoning in the batter. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat or try adding some dried herbs like thyme or oregano for additional flavor.
• Make It Ahead: You can prepare the cauliflower and batter ahead of time. Store the battered cauliflower in the fridge for up to a day before baking. This can save time if you’re preparing for a party or meal in advance.

Variations of Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

• Spicy Garlic Buffalo Cauliflower Wings: Add minced garlic to the Buffalo sauce to give the wings an extra kick of flavor. The garlic adds a savory depth that complements the heat of the sauce.
• Vegan Ranch Dipping Sauce: For a vegan-friendly dipping sauce, serve these wings with a simple homemade vegan ranch dressing made from cashews, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs.
• BBQ Cauliflower Wings: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, swap the Buffalo sauce for a tangy BBQ sauce. The cauliflower will soak up the BBQ flavor, creating a delicious smoky alternative.
• Curry Buffalo Cauliflower Wings: For a unique twist, add a teaspoon of curry powder to the batter or the Buffalo sauce. This will give the wings an exotic flavor that pairs beautifully with the cauliflower.

Storage and Shelf Life

Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when they’re crispy and hot. However, if you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

To reheat the wings and maintain their crispiness, place them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving them, as this can make them soggy.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cauliflower wings. Arrange the cooked wings on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to eat, bake them directly from the freezer at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

While these wings are delicious on their own, pairing them with complementary sides can create a balanced, satisfying meal:

• Celery and Carrot Sticks: Serve your Buffalo Cauliflower Wings with crunchy celery and carrots, which provide a refreshing contrast to the spicy wings. These veggies are a traditional accompaniment to Buffalo wings.
• Vegan or Regular Mac and Cheese: A creamy, cheesy mac and cheese pairs perfectly with the heat from the Buffalo sauce, creating a comforting and indulgent meal.
• Side Salad: A light, crisp salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette will complement the rich and spicy wings.
• Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy, baked sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast to the spiciness of the Buffalo wings, creating a delicious balance of flavors.

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Conclusion

Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are a flavorful, healthier alternative to traditional chicken wings, offering the same great taste with a plant-based twist. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, side dish, or main course, these wings are sure to be a hit at your next gathering or meal. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a batch of these delicious wings in no time. The tips, variations, and storage ideas provided ensure that your Buffalo Cauliflower Wings will be perfect every time. Enjoy the bold, spicy flavor of these crispy cauliflower bites—you won’t even miss the chicken!