Buffalo Cauliflower Wings: A Vegetarian Spin on a Classic
These Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are a spicy, crispy, and satisfying vegetarian take on classic buffalo wings. Oven-baked, easy to make, and perfect for game day or healthy snacking!
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Craving the bold, tangy heat of classic buffalo wings without the meat? These Buffalo Cauliflower Wings offer the perfect vegetarian alternative—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and absolutely drenched in spicy, zesty buffalo sauce.
Perfect for game day snacks, party appetizers, or healthy weeknight treats, these wings satisfy the craving while keeping it plant-based. Whether you’re a committed vegetarian or just looking to cut back on meat, this cauliflower wings recipe will earn a regular spot on your menu.
This version is oven-baked, not fried, and can easily be made gluten-free or vegan, making it a wholesome twist on the beloved classic.
Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Recipe
Ingredients
For the Cauliflower Bites:
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
- ¾ cup unsweetened plant-based milk or regular milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Buffalo Sauce:
- ⅔ cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
- 2 tbsp melted butter or vegan butter
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey (optional for balance)
Instructions
🧑🍳 Step 1: Prep the Cauliflower
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, milk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring full coverage.
- Shake off excess and place onto the prepared baking sheet.
🧑🍳 Step 2: Bake Until Crisp
Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crisping.
🧑🍳 Step 3: Sauce It Up
- Meanwhile, mix hot sauce, melted butter, and maple syrup in a small bowl.
- After baking, remove cauliflower and toss gently in the buffalo sauce.
- Return to the oven and bake an additional 15 minutes until golden and crispy.
🧑🍳 Step 4: Serve
Serve immediately with celery sticks and a side of ranch or blue cheese dip (vegan if desired).
Pro Tips for Perfect Cauliflower Wings
🌡️ High oven heat = crispier edges
🥛 Use plant-based milk and vegan butter for a completely vegan version
🌶️ Adjust the heat by using a milder or spicier hot sauce
🥄 Add a teaspoon of cornstarch to the batter for extra crunch
