Easy Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Wings – 5-Minute Recipe

Looking for a healthy twist on a classic snack? These crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are your new go-to. Whether you’re looking for a guilt-free snack, a fun appetizer for your next game day, or a vegan alternative to buffalo chicken wings, this recipe will check all your boxes. It’s low-carb, vegan, and packed with flavor. Let’s dive into this easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love These Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

These cauliflower wings aren’t just a great alternative to buffalo wings—they’re a delicious and crispy option for anyone looking to enjoy a healthier, plant-based snack. Perfect for keto, vegan, and gluten-free diets, these wings are baked to perfection and tossed in a flavorful buffalo sauce that delivers the perfect balance of heat and tang. Best of all, they are super easy to prepare, making them an excellent choice for busy weeknights or game day parties!

Ingredients for Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

To make these crispy buffalo cauliflower wings, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of each one and its role in the recipe:

• Cauliflower florets: The star ingredient. Fresh cauliflower adds a hearty texture and absorbs the buffalo sauce beautifully.
• Almond flour: A gluten-free alternative to regular flour, providing a crispy texture without the carbs.
• Unsweetened almond milk: Adds moisture to the batter while keeping the recipe dairy-free and vegan.
• Onion salt: Adds a savory depth of flavor that complements the cauliflower and spices.
• Garlic powder: A small addition that makes a big difference in enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• Paprika: Adds a smoky, rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the heat of the buffalo sauce.
• Buffalo sauce: The key ingredient for that signature spicy kick! Choose a vegan-friendly or Whole30-approved option.
• Vegan butter (or ghee for Whole30): Used to give the buffalo sauce a rich, smooth consistency.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking for substitutions based on dietary needs or personal preferences, here are some alternatives:

• Almond flour: You can use coconut flour if you prefer, though you may need to adjust the amount since it’s more absorbent.
• Buffalo sauce: Swap it with BBQ sauce, sticky sesame sauce, or even chipotle lime sauce for a unique twist on the classic.
• Vegan butter: If you’re not dairy-free, regular butter or ghee can work as well.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

Making these cauliflower wings is as simple as it gets. Follow these easy steps for the crispiest results:

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets, discarding most of the stem.
2. Prepare the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together almond flour, almond milk, onion salt, garlic powder, and paprika until smooth.
3. Coat the Cauliflower: Toss the cauliflower florets in the batter until they’re evenly coated.
4. Arrange on the Baking Sheet: Lay the coated cauliflower florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they’re not overlapping to ensure they cook evenly.
5. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping the florets halfway through, until they’re golden and crispy.
6. Make the Buffalo Sauce: While the cauliflower bakes, combine your buffalo sauce and melted vegan butter in a bowl. Stir well.
7. Toss and Bake Again: Once the cauliflower is baked, toss it in the buffalo sauce until well-coated. Return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the wings to crisp up and take on the spicy sauce.
8. Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

• Don’t Skip the Flip: Be sure to flip the cauliflower halfway through baking to ensure an even, crispy texture.
• Check for Crispiness: If your wings aren’t as crispy as you like, leave them in the oven for a few extra minutes or turn up the heat slightly during the final baking phase.
• Avoid Soggy Cauliflower: Use fresh cauliflower, not frozen. Frozen cauliflower releases too much moisture, which can lead to soggy wings.

Pairing Ideas and Variations for Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

These crispy buffalo cauliflower wings are great on their own, but if you want to take them to the next level, consider pairing them with some delicious sides or variations:

• Pairing Ideas: Serve these wings with crunchy vegetable sticks like carrots, celery, or cucumber, and a side of vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
• Variations: If you’re not a fan of buffalo sauce, you can swap it for BBQ sauce, honey sriracha, or even a smoky chipotle sauce for a different flavor profile.
• Make Ahead: To save time, you can prep the cauliflower florets and batter the night before. Just store everything separately in the fridge, and bake them when you’re ready to eat.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Wings offer a fantastic, healthier alternative to traditional buffalo wings. With a simple set of ingredients, minimal prep time, and the option to customize to your preferences, this dish is perfect for vegans, those following a keto or low-carb diet, or anyone looking for a fun appetizer. Whether baked in the oven or cooked in an air fryer, these crispy wings deliver on both flavor and crunch. You can easily serve them for game day, a party, or even as a healthy snack on a busy weeknight. So why wait? Try these crispy buffalo cauliflower wings today and indulge in a guilt-free treat!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

More Relevant Recipes

• Sweet Chili Cauliflower Wings
• Crispy Baked Zucchini Chips
• Buffalo Cauliflower Bites

Print