Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

Name: Buffalo Cauliflower Wings
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup water; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup hot sauce (like Frank's RedHot); 1/4 cup melted butter; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Highlighted under: World Cuisine Recipes

Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are a delicious and spicy vegetarian alternative to traditional chicken wings. Perfect for game day or as a tasty appetizer!

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-12-21T13:01:48.591Z

These Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are a game-changer! Packed with flavor and easy to make, they’re perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Spicy and tangy flavors that pack a punch
Crispy texture that satisfies your wing cravings
Healthy alternative to traditional wings

      

The Perfect Game Day Snack

Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are not just a dish; they are an experience that brings people together. Whether you are hosting a game day party or a casual get-together, these spicy, crunchy delights will be the star of the show. They offer all the excitement of traditional wings but with a plant-based twist that everyone can enjoy, making them a great choice for your guests, whether they are meat lovers or vegetarians.

These cauliflower wings are incredibly versatile. You can customize the level of heat in the buffalo sauce to suit your taste, from mild to extra spicy. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces, like ranch or blue cheese, and you’ll have a dish that satisfies all palates. They are also easy to prepare, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the company of your friends and less time in the kitchen.

Health Benefits of Cauliflower

Cauliflower is a nutritional powerhouse, making it an excellent choice for a healthier alternative to traditional wings. Packed with vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, it supports overall health and wellness. By choosing cauliflower, you are not only indulging in a delicious snack but also benefiting from a lower-calorie option that is rich in nutrients.

Moreover, cauliflower is low in carbohydrates, making it a great choice for those following keto or low-carb diets. It’s a fantastic way to satisfy your cravings without compromising your dietary goals. By swapping out chicken for cauliflower, you can enjoy a guilty-free indulgence that doesn’t skimp on flavor or satisfaction.

Tips for Perfecting Your Wings

To achieve the crispiest Buffalo Cauliflower Wings, ensure that the florets are evenly coated in the batter. This will help create a crunchy outer layer that contrasts beautifully with the tender insides. Additionally, make sure to spread the coated cauliflower evenly on the baking sheet, allowing for optimal airflow and even cooking.

If you want to elevate the flavor of your buffalo sauce, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for an extra kick. You can also experiment with different hot sauces to find your perfect blend. Feel free to get creative with garnishes—chopped green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds can add a lovely finishing touch to your dish.

Ingredients

For the Cauliflower Wings

1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup water
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Buffalo Sauce

1/2 cup hot sauce (like Frank's RedHot)
1/4 cup melted butter
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Mix the ingredients well before starting to prepare your wings!

Instructions

Prepare the Cauliflower

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). In a large bowl, mix flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to create a batter. Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter until well coated.

Bake the Cauliflower

Place the coated cauliflower on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20 minutes until golden and crispy.

Make the Buffalo Sauce

While the cauliflower is baking, combine hot sauce, melted butter, and apple cider vinegar in a bowl. Stir well to mix.

Coat the Wings

Once the cauliflower is cooked, remove it from the oven and toss it in the buffalo sauce until evenly coated. Return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes.

Serve

Remove from the oven and serve hot with celery sticks and ranch dressing on the side.

Enjoy your spicy Buffalo Cauliflower Wings!

Serving Suggestions

Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are perfect on their own, but they shine even brighter when served with sides. Consider pairing them with crunchy celery sticks and a side of creamy ranch dressing or blue cheese dip. This classic combination not only complements the spicy wings but also adds a refreshing crunch to each bite.

For a complete meal, serve the wings alongside a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables. This adds balance to your plate and ensures that you’re getting a variety of nutrients. You can also offer a selection of dipping sauces to cater to different tastes, ensuring that everyone finds something they love.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers (which is rare, but can happen!), it's important to store them properly to maintain their texture and flavor. Place the cooled cauliflower wings in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until they are crispy again.

Avoid microwaving the wings, as this can cause them to become soggy. For an extra crispy texture upon reheating, consider giving them a quick blast in the air fryer instead. This method will revive the crunch and make them just as delicious as when they were first baked.

Variations to Try

While the classic buffalo flavor is always a winner, feel free to experiment with different sauces and seasonings to create your own unique version of cauliflower wings. Try a sweet chili sauce for a sticky and sweet twist, or a garlic parmesan sauce for a more savory option. The possibilities are endless, and you can easily tailor the dish to suit your personal preferences.

For an even healthier option, consider baking the cauliflower without the batter for a lighter version. Simply roast the florets with olive oil and your favorite spices, then toss them in the buffalo sauce for a guilt-free treat. This way, you can enjoy the delicious flavor of buffalo wings while keeping the dish light and nutritious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these wings gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free flour as a substitute for all-purpose flour.

→ How can I make these less spicy?

You can use a milder hot sauce or reduce the amount of hot sauce in the buffalo sauce.

→ Can I prepare these in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the batter and cauliflower ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge.

→ What can I serve with buffalo cauliflower wings?

They pair well with celery sticks, carrot sticks, and your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese.