Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

Buffalo Cauliflower Wings have become a staple in our household, and for good reason! Initially, I was skeptical – could vegetables truly satisfy a craving for the classic, indulgent taste of Buffalo wings? But after the first bite, all doubts vanished. My family, a mix of committed carnivores and adventurous vegetarians, devoured these crispy, spicy, and utterly addictive cauliflower wings. They’ve become our go-to appetizer for game nights, parties, or even just a fun weekend snack. The best part? They offer all the flavor and satisfaction of traditional wings, but with a healthier twist. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s both delicious and surprisingly virtuous, you absolutely have to try this recipe. Prepare to be amazed at how cauliflower can transform into something so incredibly craveable!

Ingredients for the Best Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

To create truly exceptional Buffalo Cauliflower Wings, using high-quality ingredients and understanding their roles is key. This recipe is designed to deliver maximum flavor and that signature crispy texture that rivals even the best chicken wings. Here’s a detailed breakdown of everything you’ll need:

• 1 large head of cauliflower (approximately 2-2.5 lbs), cut into florets: The star of the show! Choose a firm, dense head of cauliflower without any brown spots. Larger florets are easier to coat and handle, but make sure they are bite-sized for optimal enjoyment. Cutting them into roughly equal sizes ensures even cooking.
• For the Batter:
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour: Forms the base of our crispy coating. All-purpose flour provides a good balance of gluten for structure and tenderness. For a gluten-free option, see our variations section later in the article.
  • 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat): Adds moisture to the batter, helping it to adhere to the cauliflower and creating a light, crispy texture. Unsweetened varieties prevent any unwanted sweetness in our savory wings. Oat milk tends to create a slightly creamier batter.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a subtle garlic flavor into the batter, enhancing the overall savory profile of the wings. Garlic powder is preferred over fresh garlic here as it distributes more evenly in the dry batter ingredients.
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder: Similar to garlic powder, onion powder contributes a savory depth and complexity to the batter. It complements the garlic powder beautifully, creating a well-rounded flavor base.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked): Paprika adds a touch of color and a mild, slightly smoky flavor. Smoked paprika will enhance the smoky notes in the Buffalo sauce, while sweet paprika provides a milder, more rounded flavor.
  • ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning the batter and bringing out the flavors of the other ingredients. Salt also plays a role in gluten development in the flour, contributing to the texture.
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and spice to the batter, balancing the other flavors. Freshly ground black pepper is always preferable for the best flavor, but pre-ground will also work.
• For the Buffalo Sauce:
  • ½ cup Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Wing Sauce: The undisputed king of Buffalo sauce! Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Wing Sauce provides the authentic tangy, spicy, and buttery flavor that defines Buffalo wings. Using a pre-made Buffalo wing sauce ensures consistency and saves time. If you prefer a milder spice level, start with less and adjust to taste.
  • ¼ cup (½ stick) unsalted butter (or vegan butter for a vegan option): Butter adds richness, depth, and that classic velvety texture to Buffalo sauce. Unsalted butter allows you to control the salt level of the sauce. For a vegan version, use a high-quality vegan butter alternative that melts and emulsifies well.
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Adds a touch of acidity that balances the richness of the butter and the heat of the hot sauce. Apple cider vinegar also enhances the overall tanginess of the Buffalo sauce, making it even more craveable.
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (or tamari for a vegetarian/vegan option): Worcestershire sauce (or tamari) provides umami depth and complexity to the Buffalo sauce. It adds a savory, slightly fermented note that elevates the flavor profile. For a vegetarian or vegan option, tamari (wheat-free soy sauce) offers a similar umami boost. Ensure your chosen Worcestershire sauce is vegetarian if needed, as some brands contain anchovies.
  • Optional: ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (for extra heat): If you like your Buffalo wings extra spicy, a pinch of cayenne pepper will kick up the heat level. Add gradually and taste as you go to achieve your desired spice level.
• For Serving (Optional):
  • Blue cheese or ranch dressing: Classic dipping sauces for Buffalo wings. Choose your favorite brand or make your own homemade versions for an even more impressive presentation. Vegan ranch and blue cheese dressings are readily available if needed.
  • Celery sticks and carrot sticks: Provide a refreshing crunch and coolness to balance the spiciness of the wings. Cut into sticks for easy dipping.
  • Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish): Adds a pop of fresh color and a subtle herbal note to the finished dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Delicious Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

Creating these mouthwatering Buffalo Cauliflower Wings is easier than you might think! Follow these detailed, step-by-step instructions to ensure perfect results every time, whether you’re baking or air frying:

1. Prepare the Cauliflower:

• Wash and Dry: Thoroughly wash the cauliflower head under cold water. Pat it completely dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Excess moisture will hinder the batter from sticking properly and prevent the cauliflower from getting crispy.
• Cut into Florets: Remove the core and cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Aim for florets that are roughly the same size for even cooking. You want them to be manageable to eat in a few bites, similar to traditional chicken wing pieces.

2. Make the Batter:

• Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisking ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed and prevents clumps.
• Add Wet Ingredients: Gradually pour in the plant-based milk while whisking continuously. Mix until you achieve a smooth batter that is slightly thicker than pancake batter. It should be thick enough to coat the cauliflower florets but still pourable. If the batter is too thick, add a tablespoon more milk at a time until you reach the desired consistency. If it is too thin, add a tablespoon of flour at a time.

3. Batter the Cauliflower:

• Dip and Coat: Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring it is completely coated. Use a fork or tongs to handle the florets and allow excess batter to drip back into the bowl. You want a nice, even coating without overly thick clumps of batter.

4. Cooking Options: Baking or Air Frying

• Oven Baking (For Crispy Baked Wings):
  • Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). High heat is crucial for achieving crispy baked cauliflower wings.
  • Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This prevents sticking and makes for easier cleanup.
  • Arrange Cauliflower: Place the battered cauliflower florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they are not overcrowded, as overcrowding will steam the cauliflower instead of baking it, resulting in soggy wings. Work in batches if necessary.
  • Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping the florets halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to prevent burning. The exact baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven.
• Air Frying (For Extra Crispy Wings, Faster Cooking):
  • Preheat Air Fryer (If Necessary): Some air fryers require preheating, while others do not. Check your air fryer’s instructions. If preheating is needed, preheat to 400°F (200°C).
  • Prepare Air Fryer Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  • Arrange Cauliflower: Place the battered cauliflower florets in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Again, avoid overcrowding. Work in batches if needed.
  • Air Fry: Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy. Air fryers cook quickly, so keep a close watch to prevent burning.

5. Make the Buffalo Sauce:

• Melt Butter: While the cauliflower is cooking, prepare the Buffalo sauce. In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter (or vegan butter alternative).
• Add Buffalo Sauce and Other Ingredients: Once the butter is melted, whisk in the Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Wing Sauce, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce (or tamari). If using cayenne pepper for extra heat, add it now.
• Simmer and Thicken: Simmer the sauce for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is heated through and slightly thickened. Simmering allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Do not boil.
• Remove from Heat: Once the sauce has thickened slightly, remove it from the heat and set aside.

6. Toss Cauliflower in Buffalo Sauce:

• Combine Wings and Sauce: Once the cauliflower wings are cooked and crispy, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the warm Buffalo sauce over the cauliflower wings.
• Toss to Coat: Gently toss the cauliflower wings with the Buffalo sauce until they are evenly coated. Be sure to coat every nook and cranny for maximum flavor.

7. Serve and Enjoy Immediately:

• Plate and Garnish: Arrange the Buffalo Cauliflower Wings on a serving platter. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives, if desired.
• Serve with Dipping Sauces and Veggies: Serve immediately while they are hot and crispy. Offer blue cheese or ranch dressing, celery sticks, and carrot sticks on the side for dipping and enjoying.

Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Understanding the nutritional profile of your Buffalo Cauliflower Wings can help you make informed dietary choices. Please note that these values are estimates and can vary slightly based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.

• Servings: This recipe typically yields approximately 4-6 servings as an appetizer. Serving size will depend on the floret size and how many wings each person consumes. For a main course, it might serve 2-3 people.
• Calories per serving (estimated, based on 5 servings): Approximately 250-300 calories per serving.
• Detailed Nutritional Breakdown (approximate per serving):
  • Total Fat: 15-20g
    • Saturated Fat: 8-12g (primarily from butter/vegan butter)
    • Unsaturated Fat: Varies depending on butter/vegan butter type
  • Cholesterol: 30-40mg (if using dairy butter; 0mg if using vegan butter)
  • Sodium: 800-1000mg (can vary significantly depending on Buffalo sauce brand and salt added)
  • Total Carbohydrates: 25-30g
    • Dietary Fiber: 5-7g
    • Sugars: 2-4g (naturally occurring in cauliflower and some sauces)
  • Protein: 5-7g

Important Notes on Nutrition:

• Lower in Calories and Fat than Traditional Wings: Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are significantly lower in calories and fat compared to traditional fried chicken wings, especially in saturated fat and cholesterol.
• Good Source of Fiber: Cauliflower is a good source of dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestion and satiety.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Cauliflower provides vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and folate.
• Sodium Content: Be mindful of the sodium content, especially if using store-bought Buffalo sauce, which can be high in sodium. Choose lower-sodium options or adjust the recipe by using less sauce or making your own from scratch to control sodium levels.
• Vegan and Vegetarian Friendly: This recipe can easily be made vegan by using plant-based milk, vegan butter, and tamari instead of Worcestershire sauce, making it a great option for those following plant-based diets.

Preparation Time for Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

Time is of the essence, especially when you’re hungry for delicious Buffalo Cauliflower Wings! Here’s a breakdown of the estimated preparation and cooking times:

• Prep Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes. This includes:
  • Washing and cutting the cauliflower into florets (10 minutes)
  • Making the batter (5 minutes)
  • Preparing the Buffalo sauce (5-10 minutes)
  • Battering the cauliflower florets (5 minutes)
• Cook Time:
  • Oven Baking: 20-25 minutes
  • Air Frying: 12-15 minutes
• Total Time (Oven Baked): Approximately 40-50 minutes
• Total Time (Air Fried): Approximately 32-40 minutes

Tips to Speed Up Prep Time:

• Pre-cut Cauliflower: Purchase pre-cut cauliflower florets from the grocery store to save time on washing and cutting.
• Measure Ingredients in Advance: Measure out all your batter and sauce ingredients before you start cooking. This “mise en place” approach streamlines the cooking process.
• Work Efficiently: While the cauliflower is cooking, you can prepare your dipping sauces and chop vegetables for serving to maximize your time.

How to Serve Buffalo Cauliflower Wings for Maximum Enjoyment

Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways to suit different occasions and preferences. Here are some fantastic serving suggestions:

• Classic Appetizer:
  • Game Day Favorite: Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are the perfect appetizer for watching sports games. Serve them alongside other game-day snacks like chips and dips, sliders, and pretzels.
  • Party Starter: Impress your guests at parties and gatherings by serving these as a flavorful and healthier appetizer option. They are always a crowd-pleaser.
  • Casual Snack: Enjoy them as a satisfying snack any time you crave something savory and spicy. They are a great alternative to less healthy snack options.
• Dipping Sauces (Essential for Buffalo Wings!):
  • Blue Cheese Dressing: The classic pairing for Buffalo wings. The creamy, tangy, and slightly pungent flavor of blue cheese dressing complements the spicy, vinegary Buffalo sauce perfectly.
  • Ranch Dressing: Another popular choice. Ranch dressing offers a cool, creamy, and herbaceous contrast to the heat of the wings.
  • Vegan Ranch or Blue Cheese: For vegan guests, ensure you have vegan-friendly versions of ranch and blue cheese dressings available. Many delicious store-bought and homemade options exist.
  • Other Options: Consider serving with honey mustard, avocado ranch, or a spicy sriracha mayo for variety.
• Accompaniments and Sides:
  • Celery and Carrot Sticks: A must-have! These crunchy, refreshing vegetables provide a cooling contrast to the spiciness and richness of the wings and dipping sauces.
  • French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries: For a more substantial meal or appetizer platter, add a side of fries. Sweet potato fries offer a slightly sweeter and healthier alternative.
  • Onion Rings: Another classic fried side that pairs well with Buffalo wings.
  • Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw can provide a refreshing and tangy counterpoint to the spicy wings.
  • Mac and Cheese: For a truly indulgent meal, serve Buffalo Cauliflower Wings alongside creamy mac and cheese.
• Presentation Ideas:
  • Platter Presentation: Arrange the wings attractively on a platter, garnished with fresh parsley or chives. Place bowls of dipping sauces and vegetable sticks around the platter for easy access.
  • Individual Serving Bowls: For a more formal setting or to control portions, serve individual portions of wings in small bowls with a side of dipping sauce and vegetables.
  • Skewer Presentation: For a fun twist, thread the Buffalo Cauliflower Wings onto skewers along with celery and carrot pieces for a visually appealing and easy-to-eat appetizer.

Additional Tips for Perfect Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

Mastering Buffalo Cauliflower Wings is all about the details. Here are 5 essential tips to elevate your recipe and ensure consistently delicious results:

1. Achieve Maximum Crispiness:
   • Dry Cauliflower Thoroughly: As mentioned earlier, thoroughly drying the cauliflower after washing is crucial. Excess moisture will prevent the batter from adhering properly and lead to soggy wings.
   • Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet or Air Fryer: Whether baking or air frying, ensure the cauliflower florets are arranged in a single layer without overcrowding. Overcrowding steams the cauliflower instead of allowing it to crisp up. Work in batches if needed.
   • High Heat is Key: Baking at 450°F (232°C) and air frying at 400°F (200°C) promotes crisping. Don’t reduce the temperature in an attempt to prevent burning, as lower temperatures will lead to softer wings.
2. Adjust Spice Level to Your Preference:
   • Start with Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Wing Sauce: This sauce offers a balanced heat that is generally considered medium-spicy.
   • Control Cayenne Pepper: If you are sensitive to spice, omit the cayenne pepper entirely. If you love extra heat, gradually add cayenne pepper to the Buffalo sauce, tasting as you go until you reach your desired spice level.
   • Milder Buffalo Sauce Options: If you prefer a milder flavor overall, look for milder Buffalo wing sauces or mix Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Wing Sauce with melted butter and a touch of honey or maple syrup to sweeten and mellow the heat.
3. Customize the Batter Flavor:
   • Experiment with Spices: Feel free to experiment with different spices in the batter. Try adding a pinch of cumin, chili powder, or smoked salt for a unique flavor profile.
   • Add Herbs: Finely chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can add a fragrant and herbaceous note to the batter.
   • Cheese Powder: For a cheesy flavor boost (non-vegan), consider adding a tablespoon or two of nutritional yeast (vegan) or grated Parmesan cheese (non-vegan) to the batter.
4. Make-Ahead Tips and Storage:
   • Prepare Batter in Advance: The batter can be prepared up to a few hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Whisk it again before using if it has thickened.
   • Cook Cauliflower Wings Just Before Serving: For the best crispiness, it is recommended to cook and sauce the cauliflower wings just before serving.
   • Storing Leftovers (Crispiness Will Decrease): Leftover Buffalo Cauliflower Wings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. However, they will lose some of their crispiness upon reheating.
   • Reheating Options (Crispiness Revival): To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, to help regain some crispiness. Microwaving is not recommended as it will make them soggy.
5. Vegan and Gluten-Free Adaptations:
   • Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings: This recipe is easily made vegan by using plant-based milk, vegan butter, and tamari instead of Worcestershire sauce. Ensure your Buffalo wing sauce is also vegan-friendly (Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Wing Sauce is naturally vegan).
   • Gluten-Free Buffalo Cauliflower Wings: To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum or guar gum for binding. You can also use rice flour or a combination of rice flour and cornstarch for a crispy gluten-free coating. Double-check all other ingredients, especially the Worcestershire sauce (use tamari instead), to ensure they are gluten-free.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

Got questions about making the perfect Buffalo Cauliflower Wings? We’ve got answers! Here are 5 frequently asked questions to help you succeed:

Q1: How do I get my Buffalo Cauliflower Wings crispy, not soggy?

A: Crispiness is key! The secret lies in a few crucial steps:

• Thoroughly Dry the Cauliflower: Excess moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Make sure to pat the cauliflower florets completely dry after washing.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Give the cauliflower space to breathe and crisp up. Arrange them in a single layer on the baking sheet or air fryer basket. Work in batches if necessary.
• High Heat Baking/Air Frying: Use the recommended high temperatures (450°F/232°C for baking, 400°F/200°C for air frying) to promote crisping.
• Flip Halfway Through: Flipping the wings halfway through the cooking process ensures even browning and crisping on all sides.

Q2: Can I make Buffalo Cauliflower Wings ahead of time?

A: For the best results, it’s recommended to cook and sauce the Buffalo Cauliflower Wings just before serving to maximize crispiness. While you can prepare the batter and Buffalo sauce ahead of time, cooking them fresh will yield the best texture. If you need to make them slightly ahead, cook the cauliflower wings and keep them warm in a low oven (around 200°F/93°C) until you are ready to sauce and serve. However, note that they will be crispiest when served immediately after saucing.

Q3: What are good vegan substitutions for this recipe?

A: This recipe is easily adaptable for vegans! Here are the key substitutions:

• Plant-Based Milk: Use unsweetened almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk in the batter.
• Vegan Butter: Substitute dairy butter with a high-quality vegan butter alternative that melts and emulsifies well, like Miyoko’s Kitchen Cultured Vegan Butter or Melt Organic Vegan Butter.
• Tamari: Use tamari (wheat-free soy sauce) in place of Worcestershire sauce to add umami depth while keeping the recipe vegan and vegetarian.
• Vegan Ranch and Blue Cheese Dressing: Serve with vegan ranch and blue cheese dressings for dipping. Many delicious store-bought and homemade options are available.

Q4: My Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are too spicy! How can I make them milder?

A: If the wings are too spicy, you can easily adjust the heat level:

• Reduce or Omit Cayenne Pepper: If the recipe calls for cayenne pepper, reduce the amount or omit it entirely.
• Dilute the Buffalo Sauce: Mix the Buffalo sauce with melted butter and a touch of honey or maple syrup. The sweetness and fat will help to mellow the heat. You can also add a tablespoon of vegan sour cream or yogurt (for non-vegan) to the sauce to cool it down.
• Serve with Cooling Dipping Sauces: Serve the wings with generous portions of cooling dipping sauces like ranch or vegan ranch, which will help to balance the spiciness.

Q5: Can I bake or air fry frozen cauliflower florets?

A: While it’s best to use fresh cauliflower for optimal texture, you can use frozen cauliflower florets in a pinch. However, you’ll need to take extra steps to remove excess moisture:

• Thaw and Drain: Thaw the frozen cauliflower completely. Then, squeeze out as much excess water as possible using paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Frozen cauliflower tends to release a lot of water, which can make the wings soggy.
• Pat Dry Thoroughly: Even after thawing and draining, pat the cauliflower florets very dry before battering them.
• Cooking Time May Vary: Frozen cauliflower may cook slightly faster than fresh cauliflower. Keep an eye on them during baking or air frying and adjust cooking time as needed. They might not get quite as crispy as fresh cauliflower, but they will still be delicious.

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