Super Bowl Crispy Cauliflower Wings

Name: Super Bowl Crispy Cauliflower Wings
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup almond milk (unsweetened); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs or panko; 1/2 cup hot sauce (like Frank's RedHot); 1/4 cup melted butter or vegan alternative; 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional); 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

Highlighted under: Hearty Kitchen Creations

I absolutely love creating dishes that surprise and delight, and these Super Bowl Crispy Cauliflower Wings do just that! Packed with flavor and a satisfying crunch, they’re not only a great substitute for traditional wings but also perfect for any gathering. My family can't get enough of them, and I find myself experimenting with different sauce combinations to suit everyone’s taste. Whether you prefer them spicy or mild, these wings are sure to impress your guests during the big game!

Created by

Harriet Mason

Last updated on 2026-01-12T02:43:15.409Z

When I first decided to make these cauliflower wings for Super Bowl Sunday, I was skeptical about how well they would mimic the texture and flavor of traditional chicken wings. However, after testing a few different methods, I discovered that baking them at high heat makes all the difference. The secret is in the batter and the right cooking time!

Experimenting with various sauces led to an exciting array of flavors, from tangy barbecue to spicy buffalo. It’s essential to toss them in sauce right after they come out of the oven to maintain that crispy exterior. Trust me, your guests will be begging for the recipe!

Why You'll Love These Wings
Crispy and satisfying texture that rivals traditional wings
Versatile flavor options to please any palate
A healthier alternative without sacrificing taste

Mastering Your Cauliflower Wings

The key to achieving that desirable crispiness in cauliflower wings lies in the batter consistency. You want it thick enough to adhere to the florets but not so thick that it becomes gummy. A smooth batter allows for an even coating, which is crucial for the breadcrumbs to stick well. If you find that your batter is too thin, just add a little more flour until you reach the desired consistency.

Coating the cauliflower evenly is vital for texture and flavor. I recommend placing the battered florets on a wire rack for a few minutes to let the batter set before rolling them in breadcrumbs. This helps create a seal that keeps your wings crispy in the oven, preventing them from becoming soggy. Make sure each piece is generously coated, but shake off any excess to avoid clumping.

Going Beyond the Basic Recipe

Experimenting with different sauces gives you endless flavor possibilities. If you're looking for a sweeter finish, consider adding a spoonful of additional honey or maple syrup to the sauce base. You can even mix in spices like smoked paprika or crushed garlic for a unique twist. For a Asian-inspired flavor, try tossing the wings in a mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, and sriracha instead of the traditional hot sauce.

If you're preparing for a larger gathering, simply double or triple the recipe! This dish holds well in a warm oven; just keep the temperature around 200°F (93°C) to prevent the wings from getting cold while you finish baking the rest. Serving them with a variety of sauces on the side lets guests choose their favorites, making the meal an interactive and fun experience!

Ingredients

For the Cauliflower Wings

1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup almond milk (unsweetened)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup breadcrumbs or panko

For the Sauce

1/2 cup hot sauce (like Frank's RedHot)
1/4 cup melted butter or vegan alternative
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

Adjust seasoning according to your taste and feel free to mix and match sauces!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, almond milk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Coat the Cauliflower

Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, allowing excess to drip off, and then coat with breadcrumbs. Place on the baking sheet.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together the hot sauce, melted butter, honey, and cayenne pepper if using.

Toss and Serve

Remove cauliflower from the oven and immediately toss in the sauce. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce!

Enjoy these wings hot and fresh from the oven!

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, try adding more breadcrumbs or panko. You can also experiment with different spices in the batter for unique flavors.

Storing and Reheating Tips

You can store leftover cauliflower wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To keep them crispy during reheating, place them back in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, until heated through and the breadcrumb coating resharpens. Avoid using the microwave, as it can turn the wings soggy.

If you'd like to prep in advance, the uncooked cauliflower wings can be assembled and stored in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Just make sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap to prevent air exposure. This makes it easier to whip them out and bake right before your guests arrive!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your cauliflower wings aren't getting crispy enough, check your oven’s temperature. Using an oven thermometer can help ensure you have the right heat level, as uneven temperatures can lead to soggy results. Also, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet; give each floret enough space to breathe and crisp up properly.

In case your wings burn before fully cooking, this could be due to the size of your florets. Try cutting them into uniform sizes to help ensure even cooking. If they tend to brown too quickly, simply cover them loosely with foil halfway through the baking time until they are tender and cooked through.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these cauliflower wings gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet.

→ How can I store leftover wings?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can I air fry the cauliflower wings?

Absolutely! Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook for about 15-20 minutes, shaking halfway through for even cooking.

→ What dips pair well with these wings?

Ranch, blue cheese, or a creamy avocado dip work wonderfully with these crispy wings!