These Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are a spicy, crispy treat that’s perfect for game day or a fun snack! Made with fresh cauliflower and a zesty buffalo sauce, they pack a flavorful punch.
Who knew veggies could be this exciting? I love serving these with a cool dip to balance the heat—it’s a match made in heaven! You might want to make extra, trust me!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: Fresh cauliflower is key for a crispy texture. If you’re in a pinch, you can use frozen cauliflower, but make sure to thaw and drain it completely before using.
Flour: All-purpose flour works great, but you can easily switch it to gluten-free flour if needed. Chickpea flour or almond flour are also excellent options that add a nice flavor.
Buffalo Sauce: Frank’s RedHot is a classic choice. However, if you prefer something milder, you can use a hot sauce of your liking or a homemade mix using chili powder and vinegar.
Butter: This adds richness to your sauce. You can use vegan butter or olive oil as a substitute for a dairy-free version.
How Do I Get My Cauliflower Wings Extra Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispy texture is all in the baking method. Here’s how to do it right:
- Preheat the oven well to ensure the cauliflower begins cooking immediately.
- Make sure your batter is not too thick; it should coat the cauliflower lightly. Too much batter can make them soggy.
- Flip the cauliflower halfway through the first bake to help them crisp up evenly.
- After tossing in buffalo sauce, bake them again to crisp up the coating, which is key for that crunchy finish!
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Wings to share with friends and family! Enjoy!
Buffalo Cauliflower Wings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup buffalo sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Celery sticks, for serving
- Carrot sticks, for serving
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing, for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 35-45 minutes total. You’ll spend around 15 minutes prepping and mixing the ingredients, then about 20-30 minutes baking for that perfect crispiness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C). This high temperature will help the cauliflower wings get nice and crispy!
2. Make the Batter:
In a large bowl, mix the flour, water, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper together to create a smooth batter. It should be similar to pancake batter—not too thick!
3. Coat the Cauliflower:
Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, making sure each piece is well coated. Gently shake off any extra batter before placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer. This helps them cook evenly.
4. Bake the Cauliflower:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20 minutes. Remember to flip the cauliflower halfway through so both sides get a chance to crisp up!
5. Prepare the Buffalo Sauce:
While the cauliflower is baking, mix your buffalo sauce with the melted butter in a bowl. This gives it that delicious, tangy flavor we all love.
6. Toss in the Sauce:
After 20 minutes, take the cauliflower out and toss the baked florets in the buffalo sauce mixture until they are beautifully coated.
7. Final Bake:
Return the coated cauliflower to the baking sheet and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until they are crispy and slightly charred on the edges.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once they are done baking, sprinkle with chopped parsley or cilantro for a fresh touch. Serve immediately with celery, carrot sticks, and your favorite ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Enjoy your spicy, crunchy Buffalo Cauliflower Wings as a delicious snack or appetizer! They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before dipping in the batter. Excess moisture can make the batter soggy and prevent it from crisping up.
What Can I Substitute for All-Purpose Flour?
If you need a gluten-free option, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend, almond flour, or chickpea flour. Each will provide a slightly different flavor but will work well for the batter!
How Can I Make This Dish Less Spicy?
To tone down the heat, you can use a milder buffalo sauce or mix in a bit of regular hot sauce with ranch dressing for dipping. Another option is to serve them with extra veggies to balance the spice!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in the oven for about 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to help restore some of the crispness.
