The moment you hear “Buffalo wings,” your brain probably goes straight to game day, gatherings, or late-night cravings. But here’s the twist—these Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are crispy, spicy, and downright addictive… without the chicken. Made in the air fryer, they come out perfectly crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside. And let’s be real, once you dunk them my homemade buttermilk ranch recipe, you won’t even miss the meat. These wings also pair perfectly with my delectable
If you’re into meatless takes on classics, make sure to check out my vegetarian crunchwrap supreme, Chik Fil A sandwich dupe, and my vegetarian lemon pepper wings!
Table of contents
What Are Buffalo Cauliflower Wings?
Buffalo cauliflower wings are a vegetarian (and easily vegan!) alternative to classic chicken wings. Instead of meat, hearty cauliflower florets are coated in a seasoned batter and tossed in spicy Buffalo sauce.
They’re a go-to for anyone who wants the flavor of Buffalo wings without the heaviness. You still get the heat, crunch, and saucy satisfaction, but with a veggie-forward twist. And, if buffalo cauliflower wings are your thing, you’ll love my lineup of meat substitute recipes made with mushrooms, jackfruit, and more.
Key Ingredients for Buffalo Cauliflower Wings
Cauliflower: The star of the show. Its hearty texture holds up well to battering, frying, and saucing without turning mushy.
Flour: Creates the crispy coating that mimics fried wings.
Spices (cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cumin): This combo gives layers of flavor before the Buffalo sauce even hits.
Buffalo sauce: The soul of the recipe. Use your favorite store-bought or make a quick homemade Buffalo sauce with hot sauce, butter (or vegan butter), and a splash of vinegar.
Salt & pepper: Don’t underestimate the basics—they balance the spice and make the cauliflower pop.
Common Mistakes to Avoid + Pro Tips
Pro tip: For extra crunch, spray the buffalo cauliflower wings lightly with oil before cooking.
Overcrowding the basket: Give your florets space in the air fryer so they crisp instead of steaming. Cook in batches if needed.
Skipping the double cook: The second round in the air fryer sets the sauce and locks in crispiness—don’t skip it!
Too much batter: Tap off excess so your wings don’t turn heavy.
Serving Suggestions
Buffalo cauliflower wings are perfect as a bold, spicy appetizer. For a full appetizer spread, pair them with dishes like Masala Fries with Roasted Cumin Aioli, Aloo Tikki Chaat, crispy spring rolls or samosas for a fun mix of textures and flavors.
To turn them into a meal, tuck the wings into warm tortillas with lettuce and pickled onions for easy buffalo tacos, or serve them over a crisp salad for a lighter option. They also pair well with cozy mains like Chili Garlic Noodles, Creamy Vegan Ramen, or Vegetarian Udon Soup when you want something heartier alongside the spice.
FAQ
Bake or air fry them until fully crisp before tossing in sauce. For the crispiest texture, brush or drizzle the sauce instead of soaking them, or briefly air fry again after saucing.
Usually it’s excess moisture. Make sure the cauliflower is fully dry, coat it evenly, and cook at a high temperature. Overcrowding the pan or skipping the wire rack also prevents crisping.
Buffalo Cauliflower Wings (Air Fryer Recipe!)
Equipment
- air fryer
Ingredients
- Whole head of cauliflower
Batter
- 1/2 c flour
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp cayenne
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/8 tsp smoked paprika powder
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/8 tsp cumin
- 2/3 c water
- 1/2 c Buffalo Sauce, (or to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, salt, pepper, cayenne, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and water until smooth.
- Coat the cauliflower: Break the cauliflower into large florets. Dip each piece into the batter, ensuring it’s well coated. Lightly tap against the bowl to remove excess.
- Air fry or bake: Place the battered florets on a parchment-lined tray. Air fry at 400°F for 20 minutes, or bake at 450°F for 25 minutes, until golden and crispy.
- Add Buffalo sauce: Remove the cauliflower from the air fryer, let cool slightly, and toss in Buffalo sauce until evenly coated.
- Crisp again: Return to the air fryer (or oven) for another 10 minutes, letting the sauce caramelize and crisp.
- Finish and serve: Drizzle with more Buffalo sauce if desired, then serve hot with ranch or blue cheese dip.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Made this for the Super Bowl one year! And everyone loved it, especially the vegetarians who found it refreshing to have wings that they could eat.
Super easy to follow, taste just like a restaurant appetizer!!