Description
These Crispy Cauliflower Buffalo Wings offer a flavorful, spicy alternative to traditional chicken wings. Perfectly coated in a seasoned batter, baked or air-fried to a crispy finish, and tossed in a rich buffalo sauce, this vegan appetizer is ideal for game days or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Cauliflower and Batter
- 1 large head of cauliflower
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free alternative)
- 1 cup milk (or plant-based milk for vegan option)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Sauce
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 2 tbsp melted butter (or vegan butter)
Instructions
- Preheat oven or air fryer: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) or prepare your air fryer by setting it to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare cauliflower: Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets to ensure even cooking and easy dipping.
- Make batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, milk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth to create a flavorful coating.
- Coat florets: Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring they are fully and evenly coated for crispiness.
- Cook the cauliflower: For baking, place the battered florets on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through to achieve uniform crispness. For air frying, arrange a single layer of battered florets in the basket and cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway to promote even cooking.
- Prepare buffalo sauce mixture: While the cauliflower cooks, combine the buffalo sauce with melted butter (or vegan butter) in a large bowl for the signature spicy glaze.
- Toss cauliflower in sauce: Once the cauliflower is golden and crispy, transfer the pieces into the buffalo sauce mixture and toss until each piece is well-coated.
- Set the sauce: Return the sauced cauliflower to the oven or air fryer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the sauce to set and intensify the flavor.
Notes
- Use gluten-free flour and plant-based milk to make this recipe gluten-free and vegan.
- For a spicier kick, add extra cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the batter or buffalo sauce.
- Ensure the cauliflower florets are dry before dipping to help the batter adhere better.
- If baking, flipping halfway is essential for even crisping.
- Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing to complement the heat of the buffalo sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated in an air fryer for best texture.
