Vegan Cauliflower Buffalo Wings: 7 Spicy and Crispy Bites

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Vegan Cauliflower Buffalo Wings are a spicy, crispy, and flavorful plant-based snack perfect for game days or casual gatherings. These delicious bites are coated in a seasoned batter and baked to golden perfection. The tangy homemade buffalo sauce adds a kick to the crispy texture of the cauliflower, making it a healthy alternative to traditional buffalo wings. Served hot with a creamy dairy-free ranch dressing, these wings are not just a snack, but an experience you won’t forget!

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Cauliflower Buffalo Wings

There are countless reasons to fall in love with these vegan cauliflower wings. First, they’re incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep! Second, they are a guilt-free snack that packs flavor without the calories. Third, they’re gluten-free, making them suitable for most diets. Fourth, they can be made spicy or mild depending on your preference. Fifth, these cauliflower buffalo bites are a hit at parties, serving as a fabulous conversation starter. Finally, they fit seamlessly into a plant-based diet, ensuring everyone feels included at the table. Whether you’re looking for a new appetizer for a gathering or a healthy snack, this healthy buffalo cauliflower recipe will delight your taste buds!

Ingredients for Vegan Cauliflower Buffalo Wings

Gather these items:

• 1 small cauliflower, cut into small bite-sized florets
• 1/2 cup brown rice flour (or flour of choice)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1.5 teaspoons paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cashew milk (or milk of choice)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup white vinegar
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 recipe dairy-free ranch dressing (prepared separately)

How to Make Vegan Cauliflower Buffalo Wings Step-by-Step

1. Step 1: Begin by soaking cashews for the dairy-free ranch dressing. Once soaked, blend and prepare the ranch according to its specific recipe instructions, then refrigerate until serving.
2. Step 2: Line a baking tray with parchment paper and preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
3. Step 3: In a large bowl, place the cauliflower florets. In a separate bowl, combine brown rice flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, sea salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Add the cashew milk and water to the flour mixture and whisk well to form a smooth batter. Pour the batter over the cauliflower, tossing thoroughly to coat each piece evenly.
4. Step 4: Arrange the battered cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking tray. Bake for 20 minutes, flipping the florets once halfway through to ensure even cooking.
5. Step 5: While the cauliflower bakes, combine paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, sea salt, tomato paste, and white vinegar in a small saucepan. Whisk well and simmer over medium heat for 3-5 minutes to meld the flavors.
6. Step 6: Remove the cauliflower from the oven, and using a silicone brush, generously coat each piece with the buffalo sauce. Return the tray to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, flipping once halfway through to achieve a crispy, saucy finish.
7. Step 7: Serve the cauliflower buffalo wings hot with the chilled dairy-free ranch dressing for dipping. Enjoy immediately as a flavorful, crispy snack.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Vegan Cauliflower Buffalo Wings

Keep these in mind:

• Adjust spice levels according to your taste.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• For extra crispiness, consider using an air fryer instead of oven-baking.
• If you prefer a thicker coating, double dip the cauliflower florets in the batter before baking.

Best Ways to Serve Vegan Cauliflower Buffalo Wings

These crispy vegan buffalo wings can be served as a delightful appetizer at your next gathering. Pair them with celery sticks and a side of dairy-free ranch dressing for a classic touch. For an exciting twist, serve them as part of a platter featuring other vegan appetizer ideas with cauliflower, such as crispy parmesan cauliflower bites or spicy dips. They also go wonderfully with a side of fresh veggie sticks for a healthy crunch.

How to Store and Reheat Vegan Cauliflower Buffalo Wings

After enjoying your plant-based buffalo cauliflower, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’re best consumed within 2-3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warm. If you want a quick option, you can also use the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crispiness!

Frequently Asked Questions About Vegan Cauliflower Buffalo Wings

What’s the secret to perfect Vegan Cauliflower Buffalo Wings?

The secret lies in the batter! Ensuring every floret is well-coated and adjusting the spice levels to your liking can elevate these spicy vegan cauliflower wings to new heights. Opt for a mixture that’s not too thick for even cooking.

Can I make Vegan Cauliflower Buffalo Wings ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the battered cauliflower ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This is a great option for meal prepping for parties or busy weeknights!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Vegan Cauliflower Buffalo Wings?

One common mistake is overcrowding the baking tray. Ensure the cauliflower pieces are in a single layer for even cooking. Also, be mindful of the baking time to prevent them from becoming too soggy.

Variations of Vegan Cauliflower Buffalo Wings You Can Try

There are many exciting variations to explore! You can create a sweet and spicy version by adding maple syrup to the buffalo sauce. For a different flavor profile, try using a garlic or ginger-based sauce. Lastly, if you’re feeling adventurous, experiment with different seasonings or dips to complement your cauliflower recipes for vegans. For more ideas, check out vegan salad recipes that can pair well with these wings.

For a delicious dessert to follow, consider making strawberry crunch cheesecake to complement your meal!

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