The Best Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Wings with Easy Vegan Ranch Dip

If you’re craving a crowd-pleasing, flavorful snack that’s entirely plant-based, these crispy buffalo cauliflower wings are your new go-to. Baked to golden perfection and tossed in a tangy, spicy vegan buffalo sauce, they’re just as satisfying as traditional buffalo wings—similar to how our creamy vegan carbonara satisfies a classic pasta craving—but much kinder on your health and the planet.

Plus, they come with a creamy, herb-packed vegan ranch dip that’s simple to whip up. Let’s dive into how you can easily make these tasty bites at home, perfect for game day, casual dinners, or anytime snacking!

Why You’ll Love These Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

These vegan cauliflower wings are a delicious way to enjoy a classic snack without the meat. Here’s why they stand out:

• Crunchy outside, tender inside: Baking them creates a perfect texture contrast that satisfies the craving for that classic wing crunch.
• Flavorful and spicy: Tossed in a balanced buffalo sauce made with vegan butter, hot sauce, and a touch of sweetness, they deliver authentic buffalo wing flavor.
• Healthier and lighter: Baking, not frying, means less oil and fewer calories but all the flavor.
• Versatile and customizable: Easy to tweak with different sauces like barbecue or sesame for variety.
• Paired perfectly with vegan ranch: The creamy dip cools down the spice and adds a herbaceous finish.

Equipment You’ll Need to Make Perfect Cauliflower Wings

Before getting started, gather these tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable:

• Large mixing bowls: For preparing the batter and coating the cauliflower.
• Baking sheet: Preferably lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Cooking spray: To help the wings crisp up in the oven.
• Whisk: For mixing batter ingredients evenly.
• Saucepan: To melt vegan butter and mix your buffalo sauce.
• Tongs or mixing bowls: For tossing cauliflower in batter and sauce.
• Optional – Air fryer: For an alternative cooking method that produces a crispy finish with less time.

How to Make Crispy Baked Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

Follow these simple steps to create perfectly crispy buffalo cauliflower wings:

1. Prepare the Batter & Cauliflower

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Cut a large head of cauliflower into bite-sized florets.
• In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup water, 3/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1 tbsp garlic powder, 1 tbsp onion powder, and 1/4 tsp salt until smooth.
• Add the cauliflower florets to the batter and toss until well coated.

2. Coat the Florets

• Remove each floret from batter, letting excess drip off.
• Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced about 1 inch apart to avoid sticking.
• Spray the tops generously with cooking spray for extra crispiness.

3. Bake Until Golden

• Bake for 20 minutes, then carefully flip each floret.
• Bake an additional 15 minutes until golden and crispy.

4. Prepare the Buffalo Sauce

• In a small saucepan, melt 1 tbsp vegan butter over medium heat.
• Stir in 1 cup Frank’s Red Hot Sauce and 1 tbsp pure maple syrup or agave nectar.
• Remove from heat and set aside.

5. Toss, Serve, or Bake Again

• Toss the baked cauliflower wings in the buffalo sauce until evenly coated.
• For extra crispiness, return wings to the baking sheet and bake for another 15-20 minutes.
• Serve immediately with vegan ranch dipping sauce and celery sticks.

Easy Vegan Ranch Dressing That Pairs Perfectly

No buffalo wing experience is complete without a tangy, cooling ranch dip. Here’s a quick vegan ranch recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup vegan mayonnaise
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp dried dill
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Tiny pinch each of paprika and black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 2 tbsp unsweetened soy milk or water to thin

Directions:

• Whisk all ingredients in a bowl until smooth and creamy.
• Adjust salt and herb quantities to taste.
• Chill for at least 30 minutes if possible to develop flavor.

This dip balances the spicy wings with creamy herbs and is perfect for dipping or drizzling.

Variations to Customize Your Cauliflower Wings

Make this recipe your own by trying these tasty twists:

• Extra Crunchy: After coating with batter, roll in 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs before baking.
• Different Sauces: Swap buffalo sauce for teriyaki, barbecue, bang bang, or sticky sesame sauce.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour or almond flour; skip breadcrumbs.
• Frozen Cauliflower: Thaw fully and pat dry before battering to prevent sogginess.
• Dipping Options: Serve with cashew-based ranch, vegan blue cheese, barbecue, or chipotle sauces.

These simple switches keep things exciting and suit various dietary preferences and occasions.

Troubleshooting Tips for the Best Wings Every Time

Sometimes the wings don’t turn out as crispy or flavorful as you’d like. Here’s what to watch for and how to fix common issues:

• Wings are soggy: Ensure plenty of space between florets on the baking sheet and spray tops with oil.
• Batter won’t stick: Pat cauliflower dry before coating and don’t overload with batter.
• Too spicy: Reduce hot sauce amount or serve sauce on the side for dipping.
• Wings sticking together: Space out florets by at least one inch.
• Not crispy enough: Bake a bit longer or use the second bake after tossing in sauce.

Following these tips will help you get that perfect bite every time.

Can You Air Fry Cauliflower Wings

Air frying is a great alternative to baking if you want extra crispiness and a slightly faster cook time. Here’s how:

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
• Place battered cauliflower pieces in the basket in a single layer without overcrowding.
• Air fry for 15-25 minutes, shaking or turning halfway through for even cooking.
• Toss in buffalo sauce after cooking.

Keep in mind, you may need to cook in batches to avoid soggy wings due to overcrowding. The air fryer method yields a crispy exterior with tender insides and is perfect for smaller portions or quick snacks.

How to Store, Make Ahead, and Reheat Cauliflower Wings

Planning ahead? These tips ensure your wings stay tasty and ready to enjoy:

• Storage: Keep leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare batter and sauce in advance, coat cauliflower right before baking.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked cauliflower wings in a single layer on a sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month.
• Reheating: Reheat in a 375°F oven or air fryer for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving which makes them soggy.

With these tips, you can enjoy these wings any time without starting from scratch.

Frequently Asked Questions About Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

Is buffalo sauce vegan? Classic buffalo sauce contains butter, but vegan versions use plant-based butter to keep it cruelty-free and just as tasty.

Are buffalo wings very spicy? These wings have a moderate heat level. If you prefer less heat, serve the sauce on the side or swap with milder sauces like barbecue.

Can you air fry cauliflower wings? Yes! Air frying yields a crispy texture but it’s important not to overcrowd the basket.

How do you serve buffalo wings? Serve with creamy vegan ranch dip and crunchy celery and carrot sticks to balance the spice.

How long do leftovers last? Store in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.

Can I use frozen cauliflower? Yes, but be sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before coating.

These answers cover common concerns to help you nail the recipe and enjoy every bite.

Conclusion

With these irresistible crispy buffalo cauliflower wings and an easy vegan ranch dip, you can enjoy a plant-based twist on a classic favorite that’s perfect for game days, parties, or a flavorful snack anytime. Follow the tips for perfect crispiness, experiment with variations, and make these wings your own.

If you enjoyed this recipe, you’ll also love our easy 30-minute roasted tomato pasta. Your friends and family won’t believe they’re vegan!