Pin it I used to be skeptical of cauliflower pretending to be wings until a friend brought these to a Super Bowl party and I found myself hovering by the platter all night. The secret is the double bake technique that creates this impossibly crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender. Now whenever I need a vegan appetizer that actually satisfies cravings, this is my go to.
Last summer I made these for a barbecue and watched my buffalo chicken loving uncle accidentally eat half the plate before realizing they were plant based. He actually asked for the recipe which has to be the ultimate endorsement.
Ingredients
- Cauliflower: One large head cut into bite sized florets creates the perfect vessel for all that sauce
- Flour: Three quarters of a cup forms the crispy coating shell
- Plant milk: Use any unsweetened variety you prefer
- Garlic powder: One teaspoon adds savory depth to the batter
- Onion powder: Balances the garlic with subtle sweetness
- Smoked paprika: Half a teaspoon gives a subtle smoky undertone
- Hot sauce: One third cup provides the classic buffalo kick
- Sriracha: Two tablespoons adds extra garlic heat and complexity
- Vegan butter: Two tablespoons melted creates that rich restaurant style sauce consistency
- Maple syrup: One tablespoon balances all the heat perfectly
- Apple cider vinegar: One teaspoon cuts through the richness
Instructions
- Prep your oven:
- Heat to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup
- Make the batter:
- Whisk flour plant milk garlic powder onion powder smoked paprika salt and pepper until completely smooth
- Coat the cauliflower:
- Toss florets in the batter until every piece is evenly covered
- First bake:
- Arrange in a single layer and bake 20 minutes flipping halfway until golden
- Whisk the sauce:
- Combine hot sauce Sriracha melted butter maple syrup and vinegar over low heat until smooth
- Sauce them up:
- Toss baked cauliflower in the warm sauce until thoroughly coated
- Final crisp:
- Return to baking sheet and bake 10 more minutes until sauce caramelizes
- Serve:
- Garnish with herbs and pair with vegan ranch and veggies
Pin it These became a regular in our house during winter when we want something spicy and comforting without feeling weighed down. The way the sauce gets slightly sticky and caramelized in that final bake is absolutely addictive.
Getting The Perfect Crunch
I have learned that overcrowding the baking sheet is the enemy of crispy cauliflower bites. Give each floret some breathing room and you will be rewarded with restaurant style texture. If you are doubling the recipe use two sheets or bake in batches.
Sauce Variations
Sometimes I skip the Sriracha and add extra garlic powder for a more traditional buffalo flavor. Other times I swap the maple syrup for agave or even a pinch of brown sugar. You can also play with the heat level by adjusting the hot sauce to Sriracha ratio.
Make Ahead Strategy
You can bread and bake the cauliflower up to the first bake stage then refrigerate for up to two days. Finish with the sauce and second bake right before serving and they will taste freshly made.
- Reheat leftovers at 400°F for 10 minutes to restore crunch
- The air fryer works great for reviving day old bites
- Extra sauce keeps in the fridge for a week
Pin it These have become my reliable crowd pleaser for everything from game day to casual weeknight dinners when we want something fun.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I make the cauliflower crispy?
Coat the cauliflower florets evenly in the seasoned batter and bake on parchment paper. Flipping halfway helps achieve an even golden crisp texture.
- → Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a certified gluten-free flour blend to keep them crispy and safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
- → How spicy are these bites?
The heat level depends on the amount of Sriracha and hot sauce used; adjust to taste for milder or bolder spice.
- → Can I air fry the cauliflower instead of baking?
Yes, air fry battered florets at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, shaking occasionally, then toss with sauce and air fry another 5 minutes for crispiness.
- → What dips pair well with these bites?
Vegan ranch or blue cheese dips complement the spicy tang, while fresh celery and carrot sticks provide a refreshing crunch alongside.
- → Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the Sriracha-Buffalo sauce in advance and warm it gently before tossing with baked cauliflower for optimal flavor infusion.