Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Spicy

Name: Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Spicy
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup water; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup hot sauce (like Frank's RedHot); 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Highlighted under: Easy Cooking Recipes

A delicious twist on classic buffalo wings, these spicy cauliflower wings are perfect for game day or as a healthy snack.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-25T00:06:29.238Z

These Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are not only spicy and flavorful but also a healthier alternative to traditional chicken wings. Perfect for serving at parties or enjoying as a snack!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Crispy texture that satisfies your cravings
Spicy buffalo flavor that packs a punch
Easy to make and perfect for sharing

      

A Healthier Alternative

Buffalo cauliflower wings are a fantastic alternative to traditional fried chicken wings. They provide the same spicy kick and crispy texture but come with fewer calories and a lower fat content. Cauliflower is a versatile vegetable that absorbs flavors beautifully, making it the perfect base for this recipe. Not only do these wings satisfy your cravings, but they also offer a nutritious option for those looking to indulge without the guilt.

Packed with vitamins C and K, cauliflower is a powerhouse of nutrition. By swapping out chicken for this cruciferous vegetable, you’re also increasing your fiber intake, which is essential for digestive health. Whether you're a vegetarian, vegan, or simply looking to eat healthier, this recipe is a delicious way to enjoy the bold flavors of buffalo sauce.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These buffalo cauliflower wings are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, preparing a casual get-together, or looking for a healthy snack to enjoy while binge-watching your favorite series, these wings will be a hit. Their spicy flavor and crispy texture make them a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to impress both friends and family.

Additionally, they are an excellent option for meal prep. You can make a large batch and store them in the refrigerator for a quick snack or a tasty addition to your lunch. Simply reheat them in the oven, and you'll have a satisfying treat ready in no time. Plus, they pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces, allowing for customization to suit individual preferences.

Tips for the Best Cauliflower Wings

To achieve the perfect crispy texture, make sure to thoroughly coat each cauliflower floret in the batter. This will ensure that the flour mixture adheres well and forms a crunchy crust when baked. It’s also crucial to space the cauliflower wings out on the baking sheet to allow for proper air circulation, resulting in an even bake.

Experimenting with seasonings can elevate your cauliflower wings even further. Consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper for extra heat or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Additionally, if you prefer a less spicy version, you can reduce the amount of hot sauce in the buffalo sauce or opt for a milder alternative.

Ingredients

For the Cauliflower Wings

1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup water
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Buffalo Sauce

1/2 cup hot sauce (like Frank's RedHot)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Enjoy your spicy buffalo cauliflower wings!

Instructions

Prepare the Cauliflower

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Dip the cauliflower florets into the batter and coat evenly.

Bake the Cauliflower

Place the coated cauliflower on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20 minutes until golden and crispy.

Make the Buffalo Sauce

In a separate bowl, combine the hot sauce, melted butter, and apple cider vinegar. Mix well.

Toss and Bake Again

Once the cauliflower wings are baked, remove them from the oven and toss them in the buffalo sauce. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or blue cheese.

Dig into these spicy, crispy cauliflower wings!

Serving Suggestions

Buffalo cauliflower wings are delicious on their own, but pairing them with the right sides can enhance the overall experience. Consider serving them with a creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping, which can help balance the heat of the buffalo sauce. Fresh vegetable sticks like celery and carrots also make a great accompaniment, providing a refreshing crunch that complements the wings.

You can also turn these wings into a full meal by serving them over a bed of greens. Toss some mixed salad greens with a light vinaigrette, and top it with the buffalo wings for a hearty, flavorful dish. This not only adds nutritional value but also makes for a visually appealing presentation.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the buffalo cauliflower wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispy texture, it's best to reheat them in the oven rather than the microwave. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the wings for about 10 minutes, or until they're heated through and crispy again.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked cauliflower wings. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When you're ready to enjoy them, bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Nutritional Information

These buffalo cauliflower wings are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. A serving typically contains fewer calories and fat compared to traditional buffalo wings, making them a guilt-free indulgence. The cauliflower provides dietary fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced diet.

If you're watching your sodium intake, consider making your own hot sauce or opting for a low-sodium version. This way, you can enjoy the vibrant flavors of the wings without compromising on your health goals. Always check the ingredient labels to ensure you're making the best choices for your dietary needs.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these wings gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How can I make them spicier?

Add more hot sauce to the buffalo sauce or use a spicier variety of hot sauce.

→ What can I serve these wings with?

They go great with celery sticks and a creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing.

→ Can I prepare these in advance?

You can prepare the cauliflower and the sauce in advance. Just bake them right before serving.