If you are craving a flavorful, spicy snack that you can whip up in no time, this 15-Minute Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Imagine crispy, tender cauliflower florets drenched in classic, tangy buffalo sauce, all without any animal products. It’s the perfect guilt-free way to satisfy your buffalo wing cravings, whether you’re watching the game or just want a quick, tasty appetizer. The best part? This recipe is unbelievably simple but packs a punch of bold flavor and satisfying texture that will leave you reaching for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is surprisingly straightforward yet essential for capturing that iconic buffalo wings taste. Each component plays a vital role—from the crispy coating to the saucy finish—bringing crunch, creaminess, and zing together in perfect harmony.
- 1 medium head cauliflower: The star of the dish, providing a sturdy but tender base perfect for soaking up flavor.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Helps create a crispy, golden crust for the cauliflower to hold onto the buffalo sauce.
- 1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond or soy): Binds the batter without adding heaviness or dairy—great for a vegan twist.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds subtle savory depth that complements the spicy sauce beautifully.
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall flavor with a mild tangy sweetness.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances and elevates all the flavors in every bite.
- 1/4 cup Buffalo sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Wings Sauce): The key ingredient that gives these wings their signature spicy kick.
- Optional: Vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing: A creamy dip that perfectly tones down the heat when needed.
- Optional: Fresh chopped parsley or chives: Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal aroma to finish the dish.
How to Make 15-Minute Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Cauliflower & Batter Quickly
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) or your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper if you’re going the oven route. Next, in a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, plant-based milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt until the batter is smooth and lump-free. Toss your bite-sized cauliflower florets in the batter, making sure each piece gets a nice, even coating. This step ensures that you’ll get a crispy shell that clings perfectly to the cauliflower.
Step 2: Bake or Air Fry to Crispy Perfection
If baking, place your coated florets in a single layer on the lined baking sheet and bake for about 10 to 12 minutes. Remember to flip them halfway through—this helps them brown evenly and develop that irresistible crispness. Using an air fryer? Arrange the coated cauliflower in a single layer inside the basket and air fry for approximately 8 to 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Both methods lock in that crunch while keeping the inside tender and satisfying.
Step 3: Toss in Buffalo Sauce & Serve
Once your cauliflower bites come out sizzling and crisp, transfer them to a clean bowl and pour the Buffalo sauce over the top. Toss quickly but gently to coat every floret with the vibrant, spicy sauce that makes this recipe shine. Serve these delectable wings piping hot alongside your favorite vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for color and freshness. You’re now ready to indulge in crunchy, tangy, plant-based bliss!
How to Serve 15-Minute Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like fresh chopped parsley or chives not only boosts the visual appeal but also adds a fresh, herbaceous note that balances the heat. Even a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or some celery sticks on the side can elevate your presentation and give an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
Side Dishes
These wings shine best when paired with classic sides like crisp celery sticks, crunchy carrot batons, or a creamy vegan dip. For heartier fare, consider serving them alongside a fresh green salad or vegan coleslaw to bring a refreshing contrast to the spicy buffalo bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling adventurous? Serve these wings on a bed of vegan lettuce wraps or pile them high on slider buns for unique buffalo cauliflower sliders. For party platters, arrange them with colorful veggies and dips to make a vibrant and inviting centerpiece that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can easily store any leftover buffalo cauliflower wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep them separate from any dips to maintain their crispiness and reheat just before serving for the best experience.
Freezing
If you want to prep ahead on a bigger batch, these wings freeze well. Lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months and thaw quickly when ready to enjoy.
Reheating
To bring back their crispness, reheat frozen or refrigerated wings in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 8 to 10 minutes or pop them into the air fryer for 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to make them soggy and takes away the delightful crunch.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend, and make sure your buffalo sauce and other ingredients are certified gluten-free. It’s an easy swap that keeps all the flavor intact.
Is air frying better than baking for these wings?
Both methods work great. Air frying tends to produce a slightly crispier result in less time, but baking is just as delicious and convenient if you don’t have an air fryer handy.
What’s the best type of buffalo sauce to use?
Classic buffalo wing sauces like Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Wings Sauce are perfect because of their balanced heat and tanginess. Just double-check the label to ensure it’s vegan, as some brands may use butter or other animal products.
Can I make these spicy milder or hotter?
Yes! Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce you toss the wings in to suit your heat tolerance. You can also mix the buffalo sauce with a little melted vegan butter or plant-based yogurt to mellow out the spice if needed.
Are these wings kid-friendly?
Definitely! Many kids love the crispy texture and flavorful coating. Just reduce or omit the buffalo sauce if your little ones prefer less heat, and serve with some crunchy veggie sticks for a well-rounded snack.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful snack that packs all the fun and flavor of traditional buffalo wings but keeps things plant-based, this 15-Minute Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Recipe delivers in every way. It’s easy to make, endlessly satisfying, and perfect for sharing with friends or indulging on your own. Give it a try, and I promise these wings will become your go-to when cravings for something spicy and crispy strike!
Print
15-Minute Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking or Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
These Speedy Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are a crispy, flavorful vegan alternative to traditional buffalo wings, perfect for a quick snack or appetizer. Lightly battered and baked or air fried to perfection, then tossed in spicy Buffalo sauce, they’re ideal for game day or anytime you crave a tangy, spicy treat.
Ingredients
Buffalo Cauliflower Wings
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond or soy recommended)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup Buffalo sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Wings Sauce)
Optional
- Vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping
- Fresh chopped parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the Cauliflower & Batter Quickly: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or air fryer to 375°F (190°C). If baking, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, plant-based milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt until smooth. Add the cauliflower florets and toss gently to coat each piece evenly in the batter.
- Bake or Air Fry to Crispy Perfection: For baking, arrange the battered cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are lightly golden and tender-crisp. For air frying, place the florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket—work in batches if needed—and air fry for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even crisping.
- Toss in Buffalo Sauce & Serve: Once cooked, transfer the hot cauliflower to a clean bowl and pour the Buffalo sauce over the florets. Toss quickly to coat all pieces thoroughly. Serve immediately with your choice of vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing and garnish with fresh chopped herbs like parsley or chives if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
- Be sure not to overcrowd the cauliflower pieces when baking or air frying to ensure they crisp up well.
- Adjust the amount of Buffalo sauce to your taste for milder or spicier wings.
- Use gluten-free flour if a gluten-free version is desired.
- These wings are best served fresh for maximum crispiness.
- Pairing with a cooling dip like vegan ranch balances the heat nicely.

