Move over, chicken wings there’s a new MVP in town, and it’s 100% plant-powered. Cauliflower wings have taken over snack tables, party platters, and game-night menus across the globe, and for good reason. They’re crispy, crave-worthy, and totally customizable.
Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or just trying to eat more veggies, cauliflower wings are the perfect answer to your snacking prayers.
Let’s dive into how you can make these irresistible bites at home.
Why Cauliflower Wings Are So Popular
Cauliflower is the ultimate shape-shifter. Its neutral flavor and firm texture make it ideal for absorbing spices and sauce. Whether that’s spicy buffalo, sweet BBQ, or sticky teriyaki. Plus, cauliflower wings are a healthier alternative to traditional wings without sacrificing that satisfying crunch or bold flavor. Perfect for:
- Game nights
- Backyard BBQs
- After-school snacks
- Meatless Mondays
- Health-conscious munchies
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to whip up crispy, golden cauliflower wings at home.
For the Cauliflower Bites:
- 1 large head of cauliflower (cut into florets)
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour (sub: gluten-free flour blend for GF)
- ¾ cup plant-based milk (almond, oat, or soy work great)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1–2 tbsp hot sauce (optional for spicy batter)
- 1½ cups breadcrumbs (panko = extra crispiness! Use GF breadcrumbs if needed)
For the Sauce (choose one or try all):
- Buffalo Sauce: ½ cup hot sauce + 2 tbsp vegan butter
- BBQ Sauce: Store-bought or homemade smoky BBQ
- Teriyaki Sauce: Sweet soy-based glaze
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prep the Cauliflower
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) or set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Wash and dry the cauliflower. Cut into bite-sized florets—not too big, not too small.
2. Make the Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, plant milk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and hot sauce (if using) until smooth.
Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter to fully coat.
3. Coat with Breadcrumbs
Roll each battered floret in breadcrumbs to create that ultra-crispy crust.
Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in an air fryer basket.
4. Bake or Air Fry
Oven: Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
Air Fryer: Cook in batches for 15–20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.
5. Toss in Sauce
While wings are cooking, warm your chosen sauce in a pan.
Once the cauliflower is golden and crispy, toss in a large bowl with the sauce of your choice until evenly coated.
Pro Tip: For extra crispy wings, return the sauced cauliflower to the oven or air fryer for 5–8 minutes!
Dipping Sauce Ideas
Pair your wings with delicious dips for the full experience:
- Vegan ranch
- Cashew cheese dip
- Garlic aioli
- Sriracha mayo
- Creamy avocado lime dip
How to Serve
Serve cauliflower wings immediately while hot and crispy. They’re perfect with:
- Celery and carrot sticks
- A sprinkle of sesame seeds (especially with teriyaki)
- Chopped green onions or fresh parsley for garnish
- A drizzle of extra sauce for drama and flavor
Hosting a party? Serve in a big platter with multiple sauces for dipping just like a wing bar, but make it veggie!
Storage & Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? No problem!
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Use an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness (avoid microwaves they make them soggy).
Customization Tips
For Spice Lovers:
- Add chili flakes or cayenne to the batter.
- Use ghost pepper or habanero sauces for a serious kick.
For Kids or Spice-Sensitive Snackers:
- Stick with BBQ or teriyaki sauce.
- Add a touch of maple syrup to mellow out strong spices.
For a Gluten-Free Version:
- Use a gluten-free flour blend and GF breadcrumbs.
- Double-check your sauce ingredients for hidden gluten.
Final Thoughts
Cauliflower wings are more than just a plant-based alternative they’re a crispy, saucy celebration of flavor and creativity. Whether you’re a lifelong vegetarian or just experimenting with meatless Mondays, these bites are guaranteed to impress.
So grab that cauliflower, turn on your oven (or air fryer), and wing it veggie style!
Want to make it even more fun? Try a DIY wing night with friends where everyone brings a different sauce. Let the saucy showdown begin!