Description
Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and drenched in tangy spicy buffalo sauce, these plant-based bites are a healthier, baked alternative to traditional wings that satisfy any craving.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large head cauliflower (about 2–2.5 lbs / 900g-1.1kg), cut into 1.5-inch florets
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free 1-to-1 baking blend)
- 3/4 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond or oat)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot recommended)
- 2 tablespoons vegan butter
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for sauce)
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Wash and dry cauliflower florets thoroughly. Cut into uniform 1.5-inch pieces.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, turmeric, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the plant-based milk.
- Dip each cauliflower floret into the milk, let excess drip off, then toss in the flour mixture to coat. Press gently to adhere. Place on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer with space between pieces.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until edges are golden brown and crispy.
- While cauliflower bakes, melt vegan butter in a small saucepan or microwave. Whisk in hot sauce, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and vinegar (if using). Simmer for 1-2 minutes.
- Transfer baked cauliflower to a large bowl. Pour buffalo sauce over and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Serve immediately with vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing and celery sticks.
Notes
Ensure cauliflower florets are dry before coating to maximize crispiness. Do not overcrowd the baking sheet; steam causes sogginess. For extra crunch, double dip in milk and flour. Can be made in an air fryer at 400°F for 12-15 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 6
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 8
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Carbohydrates: 22
- Fiber: 4
- Protein: 5
Keywords: vegan buffalo cauliflower, crispy cauliflower bites, plant-based wings, game day snacks, gluten-free option, baked cauliflower