Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower: best easy crispy wings

Jump to Recipe

The best vegan buffalo wings – Get ready for a taste bud adventure with these incredible Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings!  If you’re a fan of bold flavors and crave that irresistible Buffalo wing goodness, you’re in for a treat. They’re amazing served as a min meal, side dish, game day snack, Super Bowl snack, but they also make a perfect appetizer. Let me paint you a picture of why you’ll absolutely fall in love with these delightful bites!

Picture this: Crispy cauliflower florets, perfectly seasoned and cooked to golden perfection. The magic starts with the air fryer, which brings out that satisfying crunch without the guilt. Imagine sinking your teeth into these “wings” and experiencing that tantalizing combination of textures – the crispy exterior that gives way to a tender and juicy center. The best part? No more awkward bone nibbling, these “wings” are boneless and fuss-free!

The best easy vegan buffalo wings

Now, let’s talk flavors of these delicious vegan chicken wings. Think about that signature Buffalo wing sauce you know and love, but with a twist. The cauliflower takes on the spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet notes of the sauce, creating an explosion of taste with every bite. It’s a symphony of zesty, smoky, and savory that will have your taste buds doing a happy dance. And guess what? You can customize the spice level to your liking – from mild to tongue-tingling hot!

Whether you’re whipping these up in the air fryer or even grilling them for that smoky twist, these Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are an absolute crowd-pleaser. Hosting a game night? Craving a guilt-free snack? These sticky and saucy bites are here to steal the show.

Air fryer buffalo cauliflower bites: the best delicious vegan chicken wings

And here’s a bonus: they’re not just for vegans! These cauliflower wings are so irresistibly delicious that even non-vegans will be reaching for seconds. Plus, they’re versatile – toss them in BBQ sauce for a finger-licking alternative or even make a delightful dip with vegan aioli.

So, what are you waiting for? Dive into a plate of these Buffalo Cauliflower Wings and discover the joy of crispy, saucy, and oh-so-satisfying bites that will make your taste buds sing. From the air fryer to your plate, let the flavors of these cauliflower wings take you on a savory adventure you won’t soon forget! 

Introducing Irresistible Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings: A Crave-Worthy air fryer buffalo cauliflower bites Delight

Get ready to embark on a journey of flavor that’s taking the culinary world by storm! Buffalo wings have long held a special place in our hearts as a beloved appetizer, party staple, and game-day treat. But what if we told you that there’s a plant-based twist that’s equally, if not more, mouthwatering? Enter the sensational Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings – a tantalizing dish that’s about to become your new obsession.

Whether you’re a dedicated vegan, someone looking to explore more plant-based options, or simply someone who appreciates bold and zesty flavors, this recipe is designed to win you over. Imagine tender cauliflower florets coated in a perfectly spiced batter, crisped to perfection, and then generously smothered in that unmistakably tangy and spicy buffalo wing sauce we all know and love.

Air fryer buffalo cauliflower wings

But there’s more to this story. We’re taking this culinary adventure to new heights by preparing these delectable bites in the air fryer, ensuring a crispy exterior without the need for excessive oil. It’s the perfect solution for those who seek healthier alternatives without compromising on taste and texture.

So, if you’re ready to experience a flavor explosion that’s not only satisfying but also cruelty-free and oh-so-delicious, let’s dive into the world of Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings. Whether you’re planning a gathering, a movie night, or just treating yourself to a scrumptious side dish, these wings are ready to elevate your dining experience to a whole new level. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests with a dish that captures the essence of buffalo wing heaven, all while aligning with your plant-based values.

In this Buffalo Cauliflower recipe – vegan BBQ wings we’re covering 

• What is Buffalo Cauliflower Wings made of
• Who invented Buffalo Wings
• Delicious Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower recipe – vegan 
• How to make Buffalo Cauliflower air fryer instructions, oven baking, grilling and more
• Keto Buffalo cauliflower wings air fryer recipe 
• Tips and tricks for making the best Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower wings 
• Delicious Plant Based Buffalo Cauliflower variations 
• What goes with Buffalo cauliflower wings
• Delicious dips and sauces to serve with cauliflower wings 
• How to clean and prep cauliflower 
• FAQs 

What is Buffalo cauliflower wings made of?

Buffalo cauliflower wings are made from cauliflower florets that are coated with a batter, baked or fried until crispy, and then tossed in Buffalo wing sauce. Here’s a breakdown of the main air fryer buffalo cauliflower wings components:

1. Cauliflower Florets: The base of vegan buffalo wings is cauliflower, which is broken down into bite-sized florets that’s baked to golden brown deliciousness. Cauliflower is used because it has a mild flavor and the cooked cauliflower texture can mimic the texture of traditional chicken wings when cooked. You can use pre-cut cauliflower or break a head of cauliflower into pieces. 

2. Batter: The cauliflower florets are coated with a batter before being cooked. The batter is typically made from a combination of flour (such as all-purpose flour, rice flour, or chickpea flour) and seasonings. The batter helps create a crispy and flavorful outer layer on the cauliflower.

3. Buffalo Wing Sauce: Once the cauliflower florets are cooked and crispy, they are tossed in Buffalo wing sauce. Buffalo sauce is a spicy and tangy sauce made from a mixture of hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot) and melted butter or oil. It’s the signature flavor that gives Buffalo cauliflower wings their distinctive taste.

4. Optional Extras: Additional seasonings and spices can be added to the batter or sprinkled over the cauliflower wings before serving. Common options include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, and black pepper.

The result is a dish that offers a combination of textures and flavors, with the crispy cauliflower florets coated in spicy Buffalo sauce. Buffalo cauliflower wings provide a tasty and satisfying alternative for those seeking a vegetarian or vegan option or simply looking to enjoy a different take on the classic Buffalo wing flavor.

Who invented Buffalo wings 

Buffalo wings are believed to have been invented in 1964 at the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, New York, by Teressa Bellissimo. The story goes that she decided to create a snack for her son and his friends using leftover chicken wings. She deep-fried the wings, tossed them in a mixture of hot sauce and butter, and served them with celery and blue cheese dressing. The result was a delicious and iconic dish that quickly gained popularity and became a favorite appetizer and snack across the United States and beyond.

Buffalo Cauliflower Bites Recipe: the best air fryer buffalo cauliflower recipe

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these irresistible Buffalo Cauliflower Bites. Whether you’re a fan of plant-based eating or simply looking for a flavorful snack, this recipe has you covered. With a combination of zesty spices and a delectable buffalo wing sauce, these cauliflower bites are the perfect balance of crispy, tangy, and oh-so-satisfying. Let’s dive into the details:

Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Ingredients:

For the Cauliflower buffalo Bites:

• 1 head Cauliflower, broken into florets or cauliflower pieces
• 120g (½ cup) Brown Rice Flour
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1 tsp Onion Powder
• 3 tsp Paprika
• ½ tsp Salt
• Pinch of Pepper
• ¼ tsp Cayenne Pepper
• 180ml (¾ cup) Unsweetened Cashew Milk or Almond Milk

Ingredients for the Buffalo Wing Sauce:

• 120ml (½ cup) Water
• 60ml (¼ cup) White Vinegar
• 2 tsp Smoked Paprika
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• 3 tbsp Tomato Powder
• ½ tsp Sea Salt

For Topping:

• 2 tbsp Sesame Seeds

How to make Buffalo Cauliflower recipe vegan – Instructions:

1. Preparing the Cauliflower Florets:

Start by taking 1 head of cauliflower and break it into bite-sized florets. You can do this by carefully cutting away the stem and then breaking or cutting the cauliflower into smaller, evenly sized pieces.

Make sure the florets are not too large to ensure even cooking and easy dipping in the batter and sauce.

2. Coating the Cauliflower Florets:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the Brown Rice Flour (or almond flour for Keto Buffalo Wings), Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Paprika, Salt, Pepper, and Cayenne Pepper.

Gradually whisk in the Unsweetened Cashew Milk or Almond Milk to create a smooth batter.

Add the cauliflower florets to the batter and toss them until they are well-coated.

3. Preparing the Baking Tray:

 Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).

 Line a baking tray with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

4. Baking the Cauliflower Florets:

Place the coated cauliflower florets on the prepared baking tray, ensuring they are spread out evenly and not overcrowded.

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, flipping the florets halfway through to ensure even cooking.

5. Continue Baking:

After the initial 20 minutes, proceed with steps 6 to 9 to prepare the buffalo wing sauce, coat the florets in the sauce, and return them to the oven.

Baking in the Oven:

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Follow steps 2 to 5 from the main instructions to coat the cauliflower florets and bake them in the oven for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

3. Proceed with steps 6 to 9 to prepare the buffalo wing sauce, coat the florets, and bake them for an additional 10-15 minutes until crispy.

Buffalo Cauliflower air fryer – Baking in the Air Fryer:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

2. Follow steps 2 to 5 from the main instructions to coat the cauliflower florets.

3. Place the coated florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding.

4. Air fry the florets for about 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they’re golden and crispy.

5. Prepare the buffalo wing sauce as per step 6, coat the florets, and air fry for an additional 5 minutes for the sauce to set.

Other Cooking Methods:

Frying: Heat oil in a pan and fry the coated florets until they’re golden and crisp. Drain excess oil on paper towels before tossing in the buffalo sauce.

Grilling: Grill the coated florets on a grill pan or outdoor grill until they’re cooked through and slightly charred. Brush with buffalo sauce before serving.

Serve and Enjoy:

These Buffalo Cauliflower Bites are not only a crowd-pleasing appetizer but also a deliciously wholesome way to enjoy the bold flavors of buffalo sauce or vegan buffalo chicken dip. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or indulging in a cozy night in, these bites are sure to steal the spotlight. Enjoy the zingy goodness and the crispy satisfaction in every bite!

Keto Cauliflower Buffalo Wings air fryer recipe 

Keto Buffalo Cauliflower Bites Recipe: Spicy Low-Carb Delight

Indulge in the perfect blend of flavors and spices with these mouthwatering Keto Buffalo Cauliflower Bites. Whether you’re a keto enthusiast or simply seeking a satisfying snack, this recipe brings you the same zesty tang and crispy texture without the carbs. Let’s explore the details and discover how to turn these cauliflower bites into a keto-friendly delight:

Keto Buffalo Cauliflower wings Ingredients:

For the Cauliflower Bites:

• 1 head Cauliflower, broken into florets
• 120g (½ cup) Almond Flour
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1 tsp Onion Powder
• 3 tsp Paprika
• ½ tsp Salt
• Pinch of Pepper
• ¼ tsp Cayenne Pepper
• 180ml (¾ cup) Unsweetened Cashew Milk or Almond Milk

Ingredients for the Buffalo Wing Sauce:

• 120ml (½ cup) Water
• 60ml (¼ cup) White Vinegar
• 2 tsp Smoked Paprika
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• 3 tbsp Tomato Powder
• ½ tsp Sea Salt

For Topping:

• 2 tbsp Sesame Seeds

How to make Keto Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Instructions:

1. Preparing the Cauliflower Florets:

Begin by taking 1 head of cauliflower and breaking it into bite-sized florets. You can do this by carefully cutting away the stem and then breaking or cutting the cauliflower into smaller, evenly sized pieces.

Ensure the florets are not too large to ensure even cooking and easy coating.

2. Coating the Cauliflower Florets:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the Almond Flour, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Paprika, Salt, Pepper, and Cayenne Pepper.

Gradually whisk in the Unsweetened Cashew Milk or Almond Milk to create a smooth batter.

Add the cauliflower florets to the batter and toss them until they are well-coated.

3. Preparing the Baking Tray:

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).

Line a baking tray with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

4. Baking the Cauliflower Florets:

Place the coated cauliflower florets on the prepared baking tray, ensuring they are spread out evenly and not overcrowded.

 Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, flipping the florets halfway through to ensure even cooking.

5. Continue Baking:

After the initial 20 minutes, proceed with steps 6 to 9 to prepare the buffalo wing sauce, coat the florets in the sauce, and return them to the oven.

Oven baking Keto Buffalo Wings – Baking in the Oven:

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Follow steps 2 to 5 from the main instructions, replacing brown rice flour with almond flour to coat the cauliflower florets. Bake them in the oven for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

3. Proceed with steps 6 to 9 to prepare the buffalo wing sauce, coat the florets, and bake them for an additional 10-15 minutes until crispy.

Keto Buffalo Wings air fryer instructions – Baking in the Air Fryer:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

2. Follow steps 2 to 5 from the main instructions, coating the cauliflower florets with almond flour.

3. Place the coated florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding.

4. Air fry the florets for about 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they’re golden and crispy.

5. Prepare the buffalo wing sauce as per step 6, coat the florets, and air fry for an additional 5 minutes for the sauce to set.

Other Cooking Methods:

Frying: Heat oil in a pan and fry the coated florets until they’re golden and crisp. Drain excess oil on paper towels before tossing in the buffalo sauce.

Grilling: Grill the coated florets on a grill pan or outdoor grill until they’re cooked through and slightly charred. Brush with buffalo sauce before serving.

Serve and Enjoy these tasty Keto cauliflower buffalo wings:

These Keto Buffalo Cauliflower Bites provide the perfect balance of flavor and satisfaction for your low-carb lifestyle. Whether you’re entertaining or treating yourself, these bites are a winning choice. Experience the crispy texture and bold taste of buffalo sauce without compromising your keto goals. Enjoy each bite guilt-free and savor the deliciousness!

Tips and tricks for making the best Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower wings 

Mastering Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings: Tips and Tricks for Perfection

Unlocking the art of crafting delectable Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings is an adventure worth embarking on. Whether you’re pursuing a plant-based lifestyle, exploring keto-friendly options, or simply indulging in bold flavors, these tips and tricks will help you achieve wing perfection that’s sure to dazzle your taste buds.

1. Choose the Right Cauliflower: Opt for fresh, firm cauliflower with compact florets. This ensures a satisfying bite and even cooking.

2. Precise Seasoning: Balance is key. Adjust spices like smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder to create the perfect level of heat for your taste buds.

3. Batter Consistency: Achieve the ideal batter texture by gradually adding cashew milk or almond milk. The batter should coat the florets evenly without being too thick.

4. Bake or Air Fryer: For a healthier twist, opt for air frying or baking. Air fryers yield crispy results with minimal oil, while baking achieves similar crunchiness.

5. Preheating is Crucial: Ensure your oven or air fryer is preheated to the recommended temperature for optimal crispiness for your vegan wings.

6. Coating Perfection: Thoroughly coat each cauliflower floret with the batter. Even coverage ensures uniform crispiness and flavor.

7. Single Layer Arrangement: Whether baking or air frying, arrange the cauliflower in a single layer to ensure even cooking and crispy texture.

8. Satisfying Sauce: Adjust the buffalo wing sauce’s tanginess, heat, and saltiness to your preference or make your favorite homemade vegan buffalo sauce. For keto-friendly options, consider using natural sweeteners like erythritol.

Extra tips to make the best cauliflower wings

9. Double Sauce Treatment: For intense flavor, brush the florets with buffalo sauce before and after cooking. This adds layers of mouthwatering taste.

10. Keto-Friendly Substitutes: Use almond flour or coconut flour for keto-friendly breading alternatives. Opt for keto-approved sauces and sweeteners.

11. Garnish with Crunch: Enhance the texture by adding crushed nuts, like almonds or pecans, to your cauliflower bites for an extra satisfying crunch.

12. Serve with Dips: Offer a variety of keto-friendly dips or vegan buffalo chicken dip like avocado-based sauces, Greek yogurt-based dips, or homemade ranch dressing for dipping delight. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, blue cheese dip, favorite buffalo wing sauce, or creamy dipping sauce and enjoy your crispy air-fried buffalo cauliflower. 

13. Mind the Timing: Keep an eye on cooking time. Overcooking can lead to overly soft cauliflower, while undercooking may result in a lack of desired crunch.

14. Serve Fresh: Serve your Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings immediately after cooking for the ultimate crispy vegan wings experience.

15. Experiment and Enjoy: Embrace creativity and explore different spice blends, sauces, and dipping options to tailor the air fryer buffalo wings experience to your preferences.

Whether you’re aiming to please a crowd, whip up a keto-friendly delight, or simply savor plant-based goodness, these tips will guide you towards wing excellence. Elevate your culinary prowess and create a sensational dish that captivates the senses while aligning with your dietary choices. With these tricks up your sleeve, your Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are bound to be a hit at any gathering, and a staple in your flavor-forward repertoire.

Delicious Plant Based Buffalo Cauliflower variations 

Here are some delicious plant-based Buffalo Cauliflower variations to satisfy your taste buds:

1. Garlic Parmesan Buffalo Cauliflower Air Fryer Twist: After tossing cauliflower in buffalo sauce, sprinkle with vegan parmesan and roasted garlic for a savory, cheesy flavor.

2. Sriracha Infusion: Amp up the heat of your air fryer buffalo wings by adding a drizzle of sriracha to the buffalo sauce, giving your cauliflower bites an extra kick.

3. Honey Mustard Fusion: Create a tangy-sweet balance by combining buffalo sauce with a touch of vegan honey mustard.

4. Taco-Inspired Flair: Add a hint of Mexican flair by seasoning your cauliflower with taco spices before coating in buffalo sauce. Serve with dairy-free sour cream and fresh salsa.

5. Balsamic Glazed Delight: Drizzle balsamic reduction over your easy air fryer buffalo cauliflower for a sweet, tangy, and slightly caramelized flavor.

6. Curry Infused Cauliflower: Blend buffalo sauce with aromatic curry spices like turmeric, cumin, and coriander for a unique and exotic twist.

7. Everything Bagel Inspired: Coat cauliflower in a mixture of everything bagel seasoning before tossing in buffalo sauce for a savory and crunchy bite.

Even more delicious easy air fryer buffalo cauliflower variations

8. Cilantro Lime Burst: Add a burst of freshness by mixing chopped cilantro and lime zest into your buffalo sauce.

9. Lemon Pepper Elegance: Before tossing in buffalo sauce, season cauliflower with zesty lemon pepper for a bright and aromatic flavor.

10. Coconut Curry Fusion: Create an unexpected fusion by combining buffalo sauce with creamy coconut milk and aromatic curry spices.

11. Teriyaki Glaze: Infuse Asian flavors by coating cauliflower in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce before adding buffalo sauce.

12. Peanut Butter Harmony: Incorporate creamy peanut butter into your buffalo sauce for a rich and nutty twist.

13. Greek Goddess Remix: Top buffalo cauliflower with dairy-free tzatziki, kalamata olives, diced cucumber, and fresh dill for a Greek-inspired delight.

14. Ranch Reverie: Serve buffalo cauliflower with a side of dairy-free ranch dressing and fresh chives for a classic and satisfying combo.

15. Truffle Temptation: Drizzle truffle oil over buffalo cauliflower for an indulgent and sophisticated flavor profile.

Feel free to experiment with these variations or combine multiple ideas to create your own unique plant-based Buffalo Cauliflower masterpiece. Whether you’re craving bold heat, subtle sweetness, or international flair, there’s a variation to suit every palate. Enjoy the exciting world of plant-based culinary creativity!

What to serve with Buffalo cauliflower wings

Pairing your delicious Buffalo Cauliflower Wings with complementary sides can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Vegan Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing: A classic choice, these creamy vegan cream cheese dressings provide a cooling contrast to the spicy buffalo flavor.

2. Crudité Platter: Serve a variety of fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, cucumbers, and bell peppers for a crunchy and refreshing accompaniment.

3. Crispy Kale Chips: Enjoy the contrast of textures by offering crispy, seasoned kale chips alongside the tender buffalo cauliflower.

4. Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness of roasted sweet potato fries balances the heat of the buffalo sauce beautifully.

5. Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing can provide a satisfying contrast to the spiciness.

6. Pickles: Dill or bread-and-butter pickles offer a briny, tangy bite that complements the bold buffalo flavor.

7. Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices provide a creamy and mild element that balances the heat.

More delicious sides to go with Vegan Buffalo Wings

8. Quinoa Salad: A light and refreshing quinoa salad with veggies and a citrus vinaigrette can offer a nutritious and satisfying side.

9. Vegan Mac and Cheese: Indulge in comfort food by pairing your buffalo cauliflower with a creamy, dairy-free mac and cheese.

10. Corn on the Cob: Roasted or grilled corn on the cob adds a touch of sweetness and a satisfying, slightly charred flavor.

11. Veggie Sticks and Hummus: Offer a variety of veggie sticks along with a selection of hummus flavors for dipping.

12. Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: The creaminess of guacamole and the crunch of tortilla chips create a perfect contrast to the spicy cauliflower.

13. Mashed Cauliflower: Prepare a low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes by making creamy mashed cauliflower.

14. Mixed Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing balance to the bold flavors of buffalo cauliflower.

15. Bread Rolls or vegan Garlic Bread: Soft, warm bread rolls or garlic bread can be perfect for scooping up the buffalo cauliflower and enjoying every bit of the flavorful sauce.

Extra ways to use leftover vegan buffalo wings

Vegan buffalo chicken wraps: Make the onto delicious vegan buffalo chicken wraps for a great vegan version of the classic wraps. 

Vegan buffalo chicken sandwiches: Create delicious rich vegan buffalo chicken sandwiches with your favorite vegan cheese, green onions and a drizzle of vegan buffalo dip. Yum!

Appetizers: Simply serve these tasty buffalo chicken wings as appetizers with a delicious vegan yogurt dip or a homemade buffalo sauce. These vegan wings are the perfect vegan appetizer or snack with a creamy dressing. 

Remember, the key is to choose sides that complement the flavors and textures of the buffalo cauliflower while offering a variety of tastes and sensations. Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal!

Delicious dips and sauces to serve with gluten free buffalo cauliflower wings 

Delicious crispy golden cauliflower wings calls for a delicious dipping sauce. Here are some delicious dips and sauces that pair perfectly with gluten-free buffalo cauliflower wings:

1. Vegan Aioli: Creamy and flavorful, vegan aioli offers a rich and garlicky dip that complements the spicy kick of buffalo cauliflower. It’s made with plant-based mayo, garlic, lemon juice, and seasonings for a delectable dipping experience.

2. Low Carb Keto Sauce: For those following a low-carb or keto diet, a tangy and spicy dipping sauce can be a great choice. Combine ingredients like mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, hot sauce, and a pinch of sweetener for a keto-friendly dipping delight.

3. Vegan Queso: Elevate your buffalo cauliflower experience with a plant-based queso dip. Made from ingredients like raw cashews, nutritional yeast, roasted red peppers, and spices, this creamy dip provides a cheesy counterpart to the spicy wings.

4. Ranch Dressing: A classic favorite, vegan ranch dressing offers a cooling and creamy partner to the heat of buffalo cauliflower. You can use dairy-free yogurt or cashew-based cream to create a luscious ranch dip.

5. Guacamole: The rich and creamy texture of guacamole adds a refreshing contrast to the spiciness of buffalo cauliflower. Its natural flavors and healthy fats make it a popular choice.

6. Sriracha Mayo: Blend vegan mayonnaise with a dash of sriracha sauce for a spicy and tangy dip that perfectly complements the bold flavors of buffalo cauliflower.

7. Tahini Sauce: A tahini-based sauce with lemon juice, garlic, and a touch of water can provide a nutty and slightly tangy dip that balances the heat.

8. Cilantro Lime Dip: Mix together dairy-free yogurt, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt for a refreshing and zesty dipping option.

Extra dips and sauces you need to eat with plant based buffalo wings

9. Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a balsamic reduction over your buffalo cauliflower for a tangy and slightly sweet twist that adds depth of flavor.

10. Sesame Ginger Sauce: Blend sesame oil, ginger, soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free), rice vinegar, and a touch of sweetener for an Asian-inspired dipping sauce.

11. Peanut Sauce: A creamy peanut sauce made with natural peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, and a hint of sweetness provides a nutty and savory dip that complements the spiciness.

12. Creamy Mustard Dip: Mix together Dijon mustard, vegan mayo, lemon juice, and a touch of agave or maple syrup for a tangy and creamy dip.

Feel free to adjust the ingredients and ratios to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. These dips and sauces are perfect for adding an extra layer of flavor and enjoyment to your gluten-free buffalo cauliflower wings!

How to clean cauliflower + prep cauliflower 

Cleaning and prepping cauliflower is an essential step before using it in any recipe. Here’s how to clean and prep cauliflower:

Cleaning:

1. Remove Leaves: Start by removing any outer leaves from the cauliflower head.

2. Cut Off Stem: Use a knife to carefully cut off the tough stem at the bottom of the cauliflower head.

3. Inspect for Dirt: Examine the cauliflower head for any visible dirt or debris. If you see any, use your fingers or a vegetable brush to gently remove it.

Prepping:

1. Break into Florets: Hold the cauliflower head upside down, with the stem facing upwards. Gently pull apart or cut the cauliflower into smaller florets using your hands or a knife. Try to make the florets relatively uniform in size for even cooking.

2. Trim Florets: If some florets have larger stems, you can trim them down to make the florets more bite-sized.

3. Wash the Florets: Place the cauliflower florets in a colander or strainer. Rinse them thoroughly under cold running water to remove any remaining dirt or debris. You can also soak the florets in a bowl of cold water for a few minutes and then drain them.

4. Dry the Florets: After washing, gently pat the florets dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Removing excess moisture will help the cauliflower cook more evenly and achieve a better texture.

Once your cauliflower is clean and prepped, you’re ready to use it in your chosen recipe. Whether you’re roasting, steaming, or using it in other creative ways, properly cleaned and prepped cauliflower will ensure a delicious and enjoyable culinary experience.

How to store and reheat Buffalo Cauliflower wings

Storing Buffalo Cauliflower Wings:

1. Refrigerator Storage: If you have leftover buffalo cauliflower wings, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.

2. Freezing plant based buffalo chicken wings:

Cooling: Allow the cooked buffalo cauliflower wings to cool to room temperature before freezing. This helps prevent condensation and freezer burn.

Pre-freezing Arrangement: Arrange the cauliflower wings on a baking sheet in a single layer, making sure they’re not touching. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 1-2 hours or until the cauliflower wings are partially frozen. This step prevents them from sticking together in the freezer bags.

Packaging: Transfer the partially frozen cauliflower wings into resealable freezer bags or airtight freezer-safe containers. If using bags, try to remove as much air as possible before sealing.

Labeling: Label the bags or containers with the date of freezing. This helps you keep track of their freshness.

Freezing:Place the bags or containers in the freezer and store them for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Frozen Buffalo Cauliflower Wings:

1. Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the frozen cauliflower wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they’re heated through and crispy.

2. Frozen breaded cauliflower in air fryer – Air Fryer Method: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the frozen cauliflower wings in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally for even cooking, until they’re hot and crispy.

3. Microwave Method: While this method might not retain the crispiness as well, you can microwave frozen cauliflower wings in 30-second intervals until they’re heated throughout.

Serving: Serve the reheated buffalo cauliflower wings with your favorite dipping sauces and enjoy!

Tips:

• Do not thaw the frozen cauliflower wings before reheating; cook them directly from frozen.
• Reheating times may vary based on your oven, air fryer, or microwave, so keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
• For the best texture, the oven and air fryer methods are recommended over the microwave.
• Serve with celery sticks, carrot sticks, and a variety of dipping sauces for a complete buffalo wing experience.

Frozen buffalo cauliflower air fryer

Cooking frozen buffalo cauliflower in an air fryer is a convenient and simple process. Here’s how you can do it:

Frozen Buffalo Cauliflower air fryer Ingredients:

• Frozen Buffalo Cauliflower Bites

Frozen cauliflower wings air fryer Instructions:

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to the recommended temperature for frozen snacks. This is typically around 375°F (190°C).

2. Arrange the Cauliflower: Place the frozen buffalo cauliflower bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not overcrowded to allow for even cooking.

3. Frozen cauliflower wings air fryer Cooking Time: Cook the frozen cauliflower bites in the air fryer for approximately 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them and shake the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The exact cooking time may vary based on the brand and size of your air fryer.

4. Check for Crispiness: After the initial cooking time, check the cauliflower bites for crispiness. If they are not yet crispy enough, you can continue cooking them in the air fryer in 3-5 minute intervals until they reach your desired level of crispiness.

5. Serve: Once the frozen buffalo cauliflower bites are crispy and heated through, carefully remove them from the air fryer basket. Serve them hot as a delicious and convenient snack or appetizer.

Tips:

You don’t need to thaw the frozen cauliflower bites before cooking them in the air fryer. Cooking them directly from frozen will help maintain their texture.

Keep an eye on the cauliflower bites as they cook to prevent them from becoming too crispy or overcooked.

Serve the cooked frozen buffalo cauliflower bites with your favorite dipping sauces for added flavor.

By using your air fryer to cook frozen buffalo cauliflower bites, you can enjoy a quick and tasty snack with the same spicy and tangy flavors you love.

FAQs – buffalo cauliflower recipe vegan

Storing, prepping and reheating buffalo wings FAQs

Diet, variations and more

Buffalo cauliflower air fryer: nutrition FAQs

What to serve with vegan chicken wings

• Sweet potato tater tots
• Mashed sweet potatoes
• Sweet potato fries
• Maple roasted potatoes

Are you looking for more delicious vegan recipes? You might like some of these fan favourites:

• Celeriac steak
• BBQ Cauliflower wings
• Kidney Bean Skewers
• Gluten-free Vegan Brisket
• Easy vegan BBQ Corn Ribs

DID YOU MAKE THESE VEGAN BFFALO WINGS?

Please leave us a review in the comments below and let us know how they turned out 🙂

Recipe originally published May 10, 2020

Recipe updated September 23, 2023