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Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

crispy buffalo cauliflower wings - featured image

These crispy buffalo cauliflower wings are a spicy, crunchy, and totally addictive vegan snack—perfect for game day, family gatherings, or cozy nights in. Made with simple pantry staples and tossed in classic buffalo sauce, they’re a crowd-pleaser that nobody can resist.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets (about 1.5 lb)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or chickpea/rice flour for gluten-free)
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened plant milk (almond, soy, or oat)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for baking, optional)
  • 1/2 cup hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot recommended)
  • 2 tbsp vegan butter, melted
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup or agave (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder (for sauce)
  • Vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing (for dipping)
  • Celery sticks
  • Carrot sticks
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Wash and dry cauliflower, then cut into even, bite-sized florets.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and salt. Pour in plant milk and whisk until smooth and thick but pourable.
  4. Add cauliflower florets to the batter, tossing gently to coat each piece. Shake off excess batter.
  5. Spread battered cauliflower evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil or spray lightly with oil.
  6. Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and dry to the touch.
  7. While baking, melt vegan butter in a small bowl. Stir in hot sauce, maple syrup (if using), and garlic powder. Whisk until smooth.
  8. Remove cauliflower from oven and let cool for 2 minutes. Transfer wings to a large bowl, pour buffalo sauce over, and toss gently to coat.
  9. Return wings to the baking sheet, spacing out. Bake another 15-20 minutes until crispy, bubbling, and deeply golden.
  10. Transfer wings to a wire rack or plate. Let cool 5 minutes to crisp up.
  11. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with vegan ranch, celery, and carrot sticks.

Notes

For gluten-free wings, use chickpea or rice flour. Double baking ensures maximum crispiness. Space out wings on the baking sheet to avoid sogginess. Air fryer method: cook battered cauliflower at 400°F for 15 minutes, shake halfway, toss in sauce, then air fry 5 more minutes. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best crunch.

Nutrition

Keywords: buffalo cauliflower, vegan wings, game day snack, crispy cauliflower, plant-based appetizer, gluten-free option, spicy vegan snack