There’s something undeniably exciting about the crunch of cauliflower wings drenched in the bold heat of Buffalo sauce. I first encountered Buffalo cauliflower wings at a lively gathering where everyone was trying to eat healthier while still indulging in great flavors. To my surprise, these plant-powered bites quickly became the star of the show, outshining traditional chicken wings.
What I love most about Buffalo cauliflower wings is their versatility; they’re not just a healthier alternative but also a canvas for a symphony of spices and sauces. With minimal prep time and the magic of an air fryer, you can whip up a batch that’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re hosting game day or just need a satisfying snack for a quiet evening at home, these wings will undoubtedly impress both vegans and meat-lovers alike! Join me as we dive into this delightful recipe that makes scrumptious snacking guilt-free. Ready to spice up your menu?
Buffalo cauliflower wings are the perfect snack!
Crispy Delight: Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch, making these wings a fun and enjoyable snack.
Flavor Explosion: The zesty Buffalo sauce brings heat and tang, perfect for flavor enthusiasts.
Versatile Choices: Customize them with different spices or dips to suit your taste.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, they’re a hassle-free option for any occasion.
Guilt-Free Indulgence: With vegan and gluten-free options, everyone can enjoy this healthier twist on a classic.
Crowd-Pleasing Snack: Serve them at parties, game days, or cozy nights to impress all your guests!
Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Ingredients
For the Batter
• Cauliflower – The star ingredient that becomes crispy and delicious.
• Spelt Flour/Chickpea Flour – Acts as a binder; gluten-free options can be used here.
• Water – Activates the batter; ensure the right temperature for adherence.
• Garlic Powder – Adds depth of flavor; substitute with fresh garlic if preferred.
• Onion Powder – Complements the overall taste with sweetness.
• Paprika – Gives color and a mild smokiness to the wings.
• Salt/Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance flavor; adjust to taste.
• Olive Oil – Aids in crisping when air-frying.
For the Sauce
• Buffalo Sauce – The final touch that packs a punch; adjust heat according to preference or mix with plant-based yogurt for milder flavors.
Enjoy creating these Buffalo cauliflower wings that are the perfect snack for everyone!
How to Make Buffalo Cauliflower Wings
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Prepare the Cauliflower: Rinse the cauliflower under cold water, trim off the outer leaves, and cut it into evenly sized florets. This ensures they cook uniformly for the best texture.
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Mix the Batter: In a large bowl, combine spelt flour or chickpea flour with water, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until you have a smooth batter, avoiding any lumps.
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Coat the Cauliflower: Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring it’s well-coated. Allow excess batter to drip off before placing them on a plate. For better adherence, chill them in the fridge for 15 minutes.
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Air Fry the Wings: Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (about 400°F). Arrange the battered florets in a single layer in the basket, giving them a light spritz of olive oil. Air fry for 15 minutes until they’re golden brown and crispy.
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Add the Buffalo Sauce: Toss the crispy wings in a bowl with the Buffalo sauce before returning them to the air fryer for an extra 5 minutes, enhancing their flavor and crispiness.
Optional: Serve with a side of vegan ranch or guacamole for a delicious dip!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Buffalo Cauliflower Wings?
Elevate your snack experience with complementary dishes that bring out the bold flavors of these crispy delights.
- Creamy Vegan Ranch: A cooling dip that balances the spiciness of the wings, enhancing each bite with creamy goodness.
- Crunchy Veggie Sticks: Carrots and celery add a refreshing crunch, making your platter colorful and nutritious.
- Zesty Guacamole: The richness of avocados paired with lime offers a vibrant flavor contrast, perfect for dipping!
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy, slightly sweet, and deliciously satisfying, these fries complement the heat wonderfully.
- Spicy Salsa: A vibrant, chunky salsa brings a burst of fresh flavor, serving as a perfect scoop alongside every wing.
- Crispy Salad: A mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a light, refreshing contrast to the heaviness of the wings.
- Light Beer or Hard Seltzer: A cool, bubbly drink helps wash down the spice, making each bite of your Buffalo cauliflower wings the perfect snack!
- Chocolate Avocado Mousse: For dessert, this rich yet healthy treat wraps up your meal on a sweet note while keeping it wholesome.
Expert Tips for Buffalo Cauliflower Wings
- Consistent Florets: Cut the cauliflower into evenly sized pieces to ensure they cook uniformly and achieve that perfect crispy texture.
- Preheat is Key: Preheating the air fryer to 200°C (400°F) helps lock in the crunchiness, making all the difference in your Buffalo cauliflower wings.
- Batch Frying: Fry the wings in small batches to maintain optimal air circulation. This way, they’ll get crispy all around instead of steaming.
- Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to try different spices or sauces; creativity enhances the flavor and makes these Buffalo cauliflower wings the perfect snack!
- Chill Before Frying: Letting the coated florets chill in the fridge for 15 minutes helps the batter adhere better during frying, leading to a more satisfying crunch.
How to Store and Freeze Buffalo Cauliflower Wings
Fridge: Store leftover Buffalo cauliflower wings in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispiness, reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked wings in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be kept for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat from frozen in the air fryer at 200°C (400°F) for about 10-12 minutes, or until heated through, to revive their delightful crunch.
Make-Ahead: Before frying, you can prepare the coated cauliflower and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours, making it easy to whip up this tasty snack at a moment’s notice!
Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Variations
Get ready to elevate your culinary creativity with these delightful twists that make this recipe even more irresistible!
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Spice Kick: Add cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for an extra layer of heat that transforms each bite into a fiery adventure. The essence of smoky flavors paired with the zest of Buffalo sauce is simply unforgettable.
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Gluten-Free Flour: Swap in almond flour or coconut flour to keep it gluten-free while offering a nutty flavor that complements the cauliflower beautifully. Keep in mind that these flours may yield a slightly different texture, ensuring unique results each time.
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Nut Milk Addition: Use coconut or soy milk instead of water in your batter for a richer, creamier base that enhances moisture and flavor exponentially. This simple swap creates a delightful twist on the traditional recipe, enhancing both texture and taste.
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Herb Infusion: Toss in dried herbs like thyme or oregano into your batter for a fresh aromatic profile that will transport your taste buds to sunny gardens. The herbs will elevate the wings to gourmet status!
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Batter Alternatives: Try replacing part of the flour with nutritional yeast for a cheesy, umami kick. This unique ingredient not only enhances flavor but also adds a nutritious boost that vegans will appreciate.
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Sauce Variations: Experiment with teriyaki or barbecue sauce for a sweeter, less spicy spin. Combining the Buffalo sauce with a touch of honey or maple syrup creates a delicious, sweet-and-spicy fusion that will delight any palate.
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Crunchier Coating: For an extra crunch, pulse some breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes into the batter. Adding this element will give the wings that satisfying crunch you crave, making them addictive bite after bite.
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Topping Twists: Finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs or green onions after frying to add freshness and a pop of color. This simple step will take your presentation to the next level while also enhancing the overall flavor experience.
Your Buffalo cauliflower wings will shine with these tasty variations. So gather your favorite accompaniments, unleash your inner chef, and enjoy snacks that everyone will rave about!
Make Ahead Options
Buffalo cauliflower wings are the perfect snack! For busy home cooks, you can prepare the cauliflower and batter up to 24 hours in advance. Simply wash and chop the cauliflower into florets, and mix your batter; store both components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy these delightful wings, simply coat the florets in the batter, air fry them at 200°C, and toss with Buffalo sauce before serving. This method not only saves precious time but also ensures that your wings remain just as crispy and delicious when cooked, making them an ideal option for meal prep or spontaneous gatherings!
Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select cauliflower for Buffalo wings?
Absolutely! Choose cauliflower heads that are firm, compact, and free from dark spots. Fresh, vibrant florets will taste better overall. Look for medium-sized cauliflowers as they are easier to cut into wings.
How should I store leftover Buffalo cauliflower wings?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the wings crispy, simply reheat them in your air fryer for about 3-5 minutes before serving again.
Can I freeze Buffalo cauliflower wings?
Yes, you can! To freeze, allow the cooked wings to cool completely. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag where they can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat from frozen in the air fryer at 200°C (400°F) for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through.
What should I do if the batter isn’t sticking to the cauliflower?
No worries! If the batter isn’t adhering well, try chilling the coated florets in the fridge for 15 minutes before frying. This helps the batter set and improves the crunch. Also, make sure your batter is thick enough; it should completely coat the florets without being too runny.
Are Buffalo cauliflower wings safe for dogs or pets?
It’s not recommended to feed Buffalo cauliflower wings to dogs or pets, especially since Buffalo sauce contains spice and ingredients that may upset their stomachs. Stick to plain, cooked cauliflower for your furry friends, if you’d like to share.
Can I make these Buffalo cauliflower wings gluten-free?
Very much! Simply substitute the spelt flour with chickpea flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour mix. This way, everyone can enjoy these delicious Buffalo cauliflower wings as the perfect snack!
Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Are the Perfect Snack for Everyone
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rinse the cauliflower under cold water, trim off the outer leaves, and cut it into evenly sized florets.
- In a large bowl, combine spelt flour or chickpea flour with water, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
- Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring it's well-coated, and allow excess batter to drip off.
- Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (about 400°F). Arrange the battered florets in a single layer in the basket and spritz with olive oil. Air fry for 15 minutes.
- Toss the crispy wings in a bowl with the Buffalo sauce before returning them to the air fryer for an extra 5 minutes.