Super Bowl Crispy Cauliflower Wings

Name: Super Bowl Crispy Cauliflower Wings
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup plant-based milk (or dairy milk); 1/2 cup cornstarch; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup buffalo sauce (or sauce of choice); Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I absolutely love making these Super Bowl Crispy Cauliflower Wings whenever game day rolls around. They’re not only delicious but also a fun twist on traditional wings. With a crispy exterior and a flavorful coating, these cauliflower bites satisfy both my cravings for something crunchy and the need to keep things a bit healthier. Whether you’re hosting a party or just snacking, these wings are sure to be a hit with everyone!

Created by

Anya Coleman

Last updated on 2026-01-13T04:19:13.882Z

When I first experimented with these Super Bowl Crispy Cauliflower Wings, I was curious if I could achieve the same satisfying crunch without using chicken. I was pleasantly surprised to find out that broccoli’s cousin could give me that delightful texture I was looking for. The secret to the crunch lies in the batter: by using a mix of flour and cornstarch, I was able to coat the cauliflower perfectly, ensuring it crisps up beautifully in the oven.

It's vital to give the wings enough space when baking; overcrowding leads to steaming rather than crisping. I learned to roast them in batches, allowing them to get that golden-brown finish that makes them irresistible. Whether paired with a spicy buffalo sauce or a creamy dip, these cauliflower wings are not just a healthier choice but a delicious one that I can’t get enough of!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Crispy texture that rivals traditional wings
Flavorful with a variety of dipping sauces
Perfect for game day or your next gathering

      

Perfecting the Crunch

Achieving the ideal crispy texture is essential for these cauliflower wings to shine. The combination of all-purpose flour and cornstarch in the batter creates a light, airy crust that turns beautifully golden when baked. It's crucial to ensure that each floret is well-coated; a quick dip in the batter followed by a gentle shake will help eliminate excess. If you find the batter is too thick, adding a splash more plant-based milk can help achieve the desired consistency without losing its coating power.

Baking the cauliflower at a high temperature is key to developing that crispy exterior. Aiming for 450°F (232°C) generates enough heat to evaporate moisture rapidly and create a crunchy surface. Keep a close eye on your cauliflower during the first 20 minutes; if you notice the edges starting to brown prematurely, you can reduce the oven temperature slightly to ensure even cooking without burning.

Flavor Enhancements

While buffalo sauce is the classic choice for these wings, there are countless flavor variations to explore. For a milder taste, try a sweet garlic sauce or a tangy barbecue sauce instead. If you're feeling adventurous, mixing sriracha into your buffalo sauce can add an extra kick. Don't hesitate to experiment by adding herbs and spices, such as cayenne or fresh thyme, to the batter for additional flavor depth.

Dipping sauces also play a significant role in enhancing your cauliflower wings. A creamy ranch or a cool cilantro-lime dressing can provide a perfect contrast to the heat of the buffalo sauce. For a vegan option, consider blending silken tofu with your favorite herbs for a protein-packed dip that complements the dish beautifully. Having a variety of dips on hand can cater to all palates and make your game-day spread even more exciting.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have any leftover crispy cauliflower wings, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain their crispiness, avoid stacking the wings directly on top of each other. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheating in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes will help revive that crispy texture. Air fryers can also work wonders, reheating them at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes if you have time constraints.

For those looking to prepare in advance, these wings can be prepped up to the coating step and stored in the fridge overnight. This allows the flavors to meld while maintaining a crispy finish when baked fresh. Alternatively, they can be frozen before baking. Just make sure to separate the cauliflower pieces on the baking sheet before freezing, to prevent sticking together. Once ready to bake, no thawing is necessary—simply adjust the baking time if starting from frozen.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Crispy Cauliflower Wings

1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup plant-based milk (or dairy milk)
1/2 cup cornstarch
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup buffalo sauce (or sauce of choice)
Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Gradually add in the plant-based milk until the batter is smooth and thick.

Coat the Cauliflower

Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, making sure it's well-coated, then place it on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake the Cauliflower

Bake the cauliflower wings for 20 minutes until they start to turn golden brown.

Add the Sauce

Remove the baking sheet from the oven and toss the cauliflower in the buffalo sauce until evenly coated. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes.

Garnish and Serve

Once done, remove the wings from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, try double-battering the cauliflower. After the initial bake, dip them in the batter again and add another layer of breadcrumbs before the final bake.

Ingredient Insights

The freshness of your cauliflower plays a crucial role in the final outcome of this dish. Choose a large head that is firm and free of dark spots to ensure the best crunch and flavor. Organic cauliflower can have additional health benefits, and it might be worth the investment, especially for special occasions like game day.

Every ingredient in the batter has a distinct role; for example, cornstarch not only enhances crunchiness but also acts as a binding agent that keeps the batter adhered to the cauliflower. If gluten is a concern, consider swapping out all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend that contains similar properties.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling this recipe up for a larger gathering is simple! Each head of cauliflower yields approximately four servings, so if you anticipate a big crowd, plan on accounting for at least two heads. You may need to bake in batches, depending on your oven size and baking sheets available, to maintain that crispy texture.

If you’re cooking for fewer people and have leftover batter, consider using it to coat vegetable sticks such as carrots or zucchini, or even tofu bites, to make the most out of your ingredients and avoid waste. These alternatives can also be deliciously crispy if prepared in the same manner as the cauliflower wings!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these wings ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cauliflower and batter ahead of time. Just store them separately in the refrigerator and coat just before baking.

→ What can I substitute for flour?

You can use almond flour or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.

→ Can I fry these instead of baking?

Absolutely! For a deeper flavor and crunch, try frying them in hot oil until golden brown.

→ What dipping sauces work well with these wings?

Classic choices are ranch dressing, blue cheese dip, or more buffalo sauce for those who love heat.