Vegan Crispy Cauliflower Wings
Crispy, saucy, and genuinely satisfying, these buffalo cauliflower wings are the kind of plant-based appetizer that wins over skeptics at the table. The secret is a double-bake method — first to set the spiced flour-and-plant-milk batter, then again after a generous toss in a tangy buffalo sauce made with hot sauce, vegan butter, and a touch of maple syrup for balance. That second trip into a 450°F oven is what takes the edges from golden to properly crispy, so don't skip it. Smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder in the batter mean every bite has depth even before the sauce gets involved. The whole thing comes together on a single wire rack over a baking sheet, so cleanup is minimal and airflow keeps the coating from going soggy. Serve them straight from the oven with vegan ranch on the side and a scatter of fresh parsley, and they disappear fast — this recipe serves four, but don't count on leftovers.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the cauliflower
- 1 medium head cauliflower (about 2 lb), cut into 1 ½-inch florets
For the batter
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup plant-based milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For the buffalo sauce
- ½ cup hot sauce (such as frank's redhot)
- 2 tbsp vegan butter, melted
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- ½ tsp garlic powder
For serving
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing, for dipping (optional)
Can be omittedblue cheese dressing
Instructions
- 1
Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set a wire rack on top.
- 2
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, plant-based milk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until a smooth, thick batter forms — it should coat the back of a spoon without dripping off immediately.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!