How to Create Crispy Baked Buffalo Cauliflower Wings
Buffalo cauliflower wings have become a popular snack, appetizer, or even a great substitute for chicken wings. They’re packed with flavor, crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and most importantly, they’re easy to make! Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian option or just want a healthier twist on traditional buffalo wings, these baked cauliflower wings are sure to please.
In this blog, I’ll show you step-by-step how to create crispy baked buffalo cauliflower wings. The recipe is simple, uses everyday ingredients, and doesn’t require fancy equipment. Let’s dive in!
Why Cauliflower Wings?
Cauliflower is a versatile vegetable that absorbs flavors beautifully. When baked or cooked, it has a soft yet satisfying texture. In this recipe, we coat cauliflower florets with a seasoned batter, bake them to crispy perfection, and toss them with a tangy buffalo sauce. It’s a healthier alternative to fried chicken wings and is perfect for vegetarians, vegans, or anyone who loves bold flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make crispy baked buffalo cauliflower wings, you’ll need:
For the batter:
- 1 medium-sized head of cauliflower
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or a gluten-free option)
- 1 cup water (you can substitute with plant-based milk if you prefer)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the buffalo sauce:
- 1/2 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (or vegan butter)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
Optional for serving:
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing
- Celery and carrot sticks
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cauliflower
Start by washing your cauliflower and patting it dry. Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Try to keep them roughly the same size so they cook evenly. Set the cauliflower aside while you prepare the batter.
2. Make the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. The batter should have a pancake-like consistency — not too thick, but not too runny. If it’s too thick, add a little more water; if it’s too thin, add a sprinkle of flour.
3. Coat the Cauliflower
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it with cooking oil to prevent sticking.
Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring it’s well-coated, and place it on the baking sheet. Leave some space between the florets so they can crisp up properly. Overcrowding the pan will make them steam rather than bake.
4. Bake Until Crispy
Bake the cauliflower wings in the oven for about 20-25 minutes. After the first 15 minutes, flip them over so they cook evenly on all sides. The coating should become golden and slightly crispy.
If you want extra crunch, you can spray a bit of cooking oil on the wings before baking or broil them for an additional 3-5 minutes at the end.
5. Prepare the Buffalo Sauce
While the cauliflower is baking, it’s time to make the buffalo sauce. In a small pot, combine the hot sauce, melted butter, and honey (or maple syrup if you’re vegan). Heat the mixture over low heat and stir until smooth. Adjust the level of sweetness or spice based on your preference.
6. Toss the Cauliflower in Sauce
Once the cauliflower wings are baked and crispy, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the buffalo sauce over the wings and gently toss them until they’re coated. Be careful not to break the cauliflower florets.
7. Bake Again (Optional Step for Crispiness)
For an extra-crispy finish, place the tossed cauliflower wings back onto the baking sheet and bake for another 5-7 minutes. This step will help the sauce stick and give the wings a slightly caramelized texture.
8. Serve and Enjoy
Your crispy baked buffalo cauliflower wings are ready to serve! Plate them with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing, and add celery and carrot sticks for the classic buffalo wings experience. These are perfect for game days, parties, or as a fun snack.
Tips for Success
- Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking, which is especially helpful for crisping the wings.
- Experiment with seasonings in the batter to match your taste — chili powder or cayenne can add extra heat!
- If you prefer a less spicy version, mix the buffalo sauce with some barbecue sauce or sour cream.
- Leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to maintain their crispiness.
Conclusion
Baked buffalo cauliflower wings are a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor. They’re crunchy, tangy, and surprisingly satisfying — proof that cauliflower can hold its own as the star of a recipe. Whether you’re planning a party or just craving a snack, this recipe is a healthy, tasty choice that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds.
Try making these crispy baked buffalo cauliflower wings today and enjoy the deliciousness! Let us know in the comments how they turned out or if you tried any fun variations.
Happy cooking!
