Super Bowl Crispy Cauliflower Wings

Name: Super Bowl Crispy Cauliflower Wings
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup water; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup hot sauce; 2 tablespoons melted vegan butter; 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love whipping up these Super Bowl Crispy Cauliflower Wings when I'm craving something delicious yet guilt-free. They're the perfect party snack, packing bold flavors and a satisfying crunch without the meat. I experimented with various coatings and found that a blend of spices gives the cauliflower the perfect kick. Baked until crispy, these wings are always a hit with family and friends. Whether you're watching the big game or just want a tasty nibble, these cauliflower wings are a fantastic choice. You'll never miss traditional wings again!

Created by

Abigail Foster

Last updated on 2026-01-12T02:55:10.032Z

When I first made these crispy cauliflower wings, I was amazed at how well they could mimic the texture of traditional wings. By tossing them in a flavorful batter and then coating them in breadcrumbs, the result was an incredibly satisfying crunch. I also found that using a mix of spices truly elevates the flavor, ensuring every bite is packed with taste.

One tip I've learned is to allow the cauliflower to marinate in the batter for at least 15 minutes before baking. This process helps the flavors penetrate deeper and creates an even crispier finish. Trust me, these wings will have everyone coming back for seconds!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy texture that rivals traditional wings
Full of flavor with a zesty kick
Healthy alternative for game day snacking

      

Getting the Right Texture

Achieving the perfect crispy texture in cauliflower wings comes down to the batter and breading technique. I recommend using a thick batter made from flour and water, which clings better to the cauliflower florets. For an even crispier outcome, let the battered florets rest for 10 minutes before coating them in breadcrumbs. This allows the batter to set slightly, making it easier for the breadcrumbs to adhere and create a crunchier exterior during baking.

When choosing breadcrumbs, opt for panko instead of standard breadcrumbs for an extra crispy bite. Panko breadcrumbs are larger and airier, which provides more surface area for browning. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, you can use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs; just be sure to monitor the baking time, as these alternatives may brown more quickly.

Spice It Up!

The blend of spices in the batter enhances the flavor profile of the cauliflower wings significantly. Garlic powder and onion powder bring depth and richness, while paprika adds a subtle smokiness. Feel free to experiment with additional spices like cayenne pepper for more heat or Italian seasoning for an herby twist. Making a small batch of the batter and tasting it before dipping the cauliflower can help you adjust the seasoning to your liking.

Don’t forget about the sauce! The combination of hot sauce and melted vegan butter is key to replicating that classic wing taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can opt for a buffalo sauce that’s less spicy, or combine the hot sauce with a bit of ranch dressing or creamy yogurt to cut through the heat and enrich the overall flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare your crispy cauliflower wings:

For the Wings

1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup water
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup breadcrumbs

For the Sauce

1/2 cup hot sauce
2 tablespoons melted vegan butter
1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup

Make sure to have everything prepped before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious wings:

Prepare the Cauliflower

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to create a batter. Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, making sure it's fully coated.

Coat and Bake

After coating the florets, roll them in breadcrumbs until fully covered. Place the cauliflower wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix the hot sauce, melted vegan butter, and honey/agave syrup until well combined.

Toss and Serve

Once the wings are done baking, remove them from the oven and toss them in the sauce until fully coated. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce!

Enjoy your delicious crispy cauliflower wings!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter. If you want a gluten-free version, substitute with almond flour instead of all-purpose flour.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These cauliflower wings can be prepared ahead of time, making them an excellent option for parties or game day. After coating the florets in batter and breadcrumbs, you can freeze them on a baking sheet for about an hour until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or a freezer bag for up to a month. When ready to enjoy, bake directly from the freezer, extending the baking time by 5-10 minutes to achieve that crispy texture.

Leftover wings can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain their crunch, reheat them in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes instead of using a microwave. This method ensures that they regain their crispy texture without becoming soggy.

Serving Suggestions

While the cauliflower wings are delicious on their own, serving them with a variety of dips can elevate your snack game. Traditional options like ranch or blue cheese dressing work well, but for a twist, try a creamy avocado dip or a zesty cilantro lime sauce. I also love serving them with crunchy carrot and celery sticks to add a refreshing element to the mix.

For a complete meal, consider turning these crispy wings into a filling sandwich by adding them to a toasted bun with some lettuce and a drizzle of the hot sauce. You can transform the wings into a hearty salad by cutting the baked cauliflower into smaller pieces and tossing them with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a flavorful fusion of textures.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these wings ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the wings up to the baking stage and store them in the fridge for 1-2 days. Bake them just before serving to ensure they stay crispy.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with these wings?

Ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or a simple garlic aioli work wonderfully with these cauliflower wings.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Absolutely! Freeze the wings in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven at 400°F (200°C) until warmed through and crispy again.

→ Can I use other vegetables instead of cauliflower?

Definitely! You can try this recipe with broccoli, mushrooms, or even zucchini for a different twist.