Baked Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

Baked Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are the ultimate game-day snack! These spicy, crispy bites provide all the flavor of traditional buffalo wings without the meat. Perfect for sharing or enjoying all by yourself, they’re easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a watch party or just craving a delicious appetizer, these cauliflower wings will be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a healthier twist on a classic favorite, you’re in for a treat. These Baked Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are not only flavorful but also guilt-free! The combination of spicy buffalo sauce and tender cauliflower makes for an irresistible snack. Plus, they are easy to prepare and bake, making cleanup a breeze. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, and you’ll have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredient Breakdown

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly cracked pepper
• 1 cup water, as needed
• 1 head cauliflower, chopped and florets sliced lengthwise (about 7 cups)
• 2-3 tablespoons olive oil, plus more if needed
• 1 cup Frank’s RedHot Original Hot Sauce, or Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Wings Hot Sauce
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing, for serving
• Celery sticks, for serving
• Carrot sticks, for serving

Before You Start: Equipment

• Baking sheet: To ensure an even bake.
• Parchment paper: For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
• Mixing bowls: For combining the batter and sauce.
• Whisk: To mix the batter smoothly.
• Spatula: For tossing the cauliflower in the sauce.

Baked Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Made Stepwise

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). This high temperature is essential for achieving that crispy texture we all love.

Step 2: Prepare the Cauliflower

Wash and chop the cauliflower into florets. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. Slice the florets lengthwise for more surface area and better crispiness.

Step 3: Make the Batter

In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, and freshly cracked pepper. Gradually add water to the mixture, stirring until smooth. The batter should be thick enough to coat the cauliflower but not too runny.

Step 4: Coat the Cauliflower

Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring it is fully coated. Allow excess batter to drip off before placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake the Cauliflower

Drizzle 2 to 3 tablespoons of olive oil over the coated cauliflower. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and crispy, flipping halfway through.

Step 6: Prepare the Buffalo Sauce

While the cauliflower is baking, combine Frank’s RedHot sauce and melted butter in a bowl. Mix well until fully blended. This sauce will give your cauliflower wings that signature spicy kick.

Step 7: Toss in Buffalo Sauce

Once the cauliflower is finished baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, toss the baked cauliflower in the buffalo sauce until evenly coated.

Step 8: Bake Again

Return the sauced cauliflower to the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10 minutes. This step is crucial for locking in the flavor and getting everything crispy.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the cauliflower wings from the oven and serve hot with ranch or blue cheese dressing, along with celery and carrot sticks on the side. Enjoy your delicious Baked Buffalo Cauliflower Wings!

If You’re Out Of…

• All-purpose flour: You can substitute with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
• Cornstarch: Use arrowroot powder or potato starch as an alternative.
• Olive oil: Avocado oil or melted coconut oil works great too.
• Frank’s RedHot Sauce: Any other hot sauce will do, but adjust the quantity according to your spice preference.

Errors to Dodge

• Don’t skip the second baking step; it’s key for achieving maximum crispiness.
• Ensure the batter is thick enough to coat the cauliflower evenly. Too thin, and the coating won’t stick.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Space the cauliflower out to allow for even cooking and crispiness.
• Be careful with the sauce; too much can make the wings soggy. Toss gently to coat.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

These Baked Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this will make them soggy.

Questions People Ask

Can I make these cauliflower wings in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the cauliflower and the batter ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge and assemble when you’re ready to bake.

What can I serve with Baked Buffalo Cauliflower Wings?

These wings pair perfectly with ranch or blue cheese dressing. You can also serve them with fresh veggies like celery and carrot sticks for a refreshing crunch.

Are these cauliflower wings spicy?

The spice level depends on the hot sauce you use. Frank’s RedHot is relatively mild, but you can adjust the amount to suit your taste. Feel free to add more or use a hotter sauce for extra heat!

Can I freeze the baked cauliflower wings?

Yes! You can freeze the wings after the first bake. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. To enjoy, reheat directly from frozen in the oven.

What to Make After This

• Spicy Chickpea Tacos
• Crispy Baked Sweet Potato Fries
• Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts
• Zucchini Fritters

Before You Go

You’ve just discovered a delightful recipe that brings the heat and crunch of buffalo wings into a healthier, plant-based format. These Baked Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are not just a snack; they are a celebration of flavor and creativity in the kitchen. Perfect for game days, parties, or a cozy night in, they are sure to impress your family and friends. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a spicy, crispy treat that you can feel good about!