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 bite-sized florets; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup almond milk (or any plant-based milk); 1 tablespoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup buffalo sauce (or sauce of choice); Olive oil spray

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making these Super Bowl Crispy Cauliflower Wings for game day! They’re not only crispy and flavorful, but they also offer a delicious way to enjoy a classic appetizer without all the guilt. Coating the cauliflower in a spicy batter before baking gives them that satisfying crunch, while the toss in your favorite sauce provides the perfect kick. I love watching everyone enjoy them as much as I do, and they’re great served with a side of creamy dip!

Created by

Daisy Webb

Last updated on 2026-01-12T00:01:12.703Z

When I first made these Super Bowl Crispy Cauliflower Wings, I was pleasantly surprised at how easy they were to put together and how delicious they turned out. I experimented with different spices and found that a blend of paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper gives the perfect flavor profile. Baking, instead of frying, ensures they’re crispy without being greasy, which is a huge win for my health-conscious friends.

Another great tip I discovered is to give the cauliflower pieces a good shake in the batter to really coat them evenly. This consistent coating allows each piece to get nice and crisp in the oven. The choice of sauce can be flexible too—whether it’s a classic buffalo or a tangy BBQ, I love the variety they bring.

        Why You'll Love These Wings
        Delectable crunch with a tender inside
Packed with flavor and easy to customize
A health-conscious twist on a classic favorite

      

Perfecting the Cauliflower Wings

To achieve the ultimate crunchy texture in your Super Bowl Crispy Cauliflower Wings, it's essential to coat each floret thoroughly in the batter. This batter not only provides flavor but also acts as a barrier that locks moisture inside while crisping the outside during baking. If the batter seems too thick, add a little more almond milk to reach a pancake-like consistency. A thinner batter may not stick well, while a very thick one can yield tough bites.

Baking the wings at 450°F (230°C) is key to getting that golden, crispy exterior. Make sure to spread the battered cauliflower evenly on the baking sheet, ensuring nothing is overcrowded. Proper air circulation during baking allows the wings to dry out slightly as they cook, leading to that desirable crunch. For a variation, consider tossing in a bit of nutritional yeast or grated parmesan into the batter for extra richness.

Satisfying Sauces and Dips

Choosing the right sauce can elevate your cauliflower wings from good to outstanding. While buffalo sauce is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other flavors—such as barbecue, teriyaki, or even a honey mustard blend. Just remember that if you opt for a thicker sauce, you may need to bake the wings a little longer after tossing to ensure it sets and adheres well, perhaps an additional 3-5 minutes.

To enhance the experience, pair your wings with a creamy dip. A homemade avocado lime dip or a classic ranch can balance the spice and add another layer of flavor. Simply mix your chosen condiment with a hint of garlic powder and fresh herbs for an easy, delectable accompaniment. Preparing these dips ahead of time will help streamline your game day setup.

Ingredients for Super Bowl Crispy Cauliflower Wings

Cauliflower Wings

1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup buffalo sauce (or sauce of choice)
Olive oil spray

Gather all your ingredients for the perfect wing experience!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Prepare the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne, and salt & pepper. Gradually add the almond milk, mixing until smooth to form a batter.

Coat the Cauliflower

Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring it is well-coated. Shake off any excess and place on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake the Wings

Spray the tops of the coated cauliflower with olive oil spray. Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and crispy.

Add the Sauce

Remove from the oven, toss the baked cauliflower in your choice of sauce, and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to set.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy your healthier game day treat!

Don't forget to pair with your favorite sides!

Pro Tips

For extra crispiness, let the coated cauliflower sit for a few minutes before baking. You can also double-bake them for an extra crunchy texture!

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make this recipe gluten-free, feel free to substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend. This is a straightforward swap that should work perfectly without altering the texture too much. You can also use chickpea flour for a nutty flavor and additional protein.

For those avoiding almond milk, any plant-based or regular dairy milk will work. Each milk brings its flavor, so try oat milk or coconut milk for a different twist. Just ensure that whatever you choose is unsweetened to maintain the right flavor profile.

Storage and Reheating Tips

These crispy cauliflower wings are best served fresh right out of the oven. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To keep them crunchy when reheating, pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, rather than using a microwave, which can make them soggy.

For longer storage, these wings can be frozen before baking. Arrange the coated, raw cauliflower on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to cook, bake them directly from the freezer, adding an extra few minutes to the baking time for an equally crunchy result.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain it completely before coating to avoid sogginess.

→ What are some alternative sauces I can use?

You can use BBQ sauce, honey mustard, teriyaki sauce, or any of your favorite wing sauces.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cauliflower and coat them in batter a few hours in advance. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.

→ Are these wings gluten-free?

You can easily make them gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.