Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings Recipe
If you’re craving a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s crispy, saucy, and packs a punch of flavor, these Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings are about to become your new obsession. They capture all the spicy-tangy magic of traditional wings, but with a lighter, veggie-forward twist that’s hard to resist. With a shatteringly crisp panko coating, a finger-licking buffalo sauce finish, and a prep time that fits weeknight moods or party vibes alike, Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings are a must-try whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just a fan of delicious snacks that leave you wanting more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a few pantry staples and fresh cauliflower, you’re all set to bring this tasty dish to life. Each ingredient in these Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings serves a purpose—from locking in moisture to delivering that bold bite everyone loves. Let’s cover what makes each element essential:
- Cauliflower Florets: Bite-sized cauliflower creates the perfect wing base that crisps up beautifully and holds onto all the flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour: This forms the foundation of your batter, ensuring a cohesive, crunchy coating around every floret.
- Water: Blends with the flour for a smooth, clingy batter that isn’t too thick or too thin.
- Garlic Powder: Adds a punch of savory depth and a hint of spice to the batter.
- Smoked Paprika: Infuses a subtle smokiness and gorgeous color that makes each wing pop.
- Salt: Brings out the natural sweetness of cauliflower and elevates the entire dish.
- Black Pepper: Provides just the right amount of heat to balance the batter’s flavors.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: The secret to that extra-crispy crunch that mimics fried wings, but way lighter.
- Buffalo Sauce (or Barbecue Sauce): Gives your wings that classic, mouthwatering kick—choose your favorite for a personalized twist.
- Olive Oil Spray: A quick mist helps achieve that golden, fried-like finish without excess oil.
How to Make Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings
Step 1: Prep the Cauliflower
Start by washing and drying your cauliflower thoroughly. Cut the head into small, bite-sized florets—this is crucial for achieving an even, all-over crisp in the air fryer. Try to keep the florets similar in size so they cook at the same rate. Pat them dry with a towel so the batter will stick beautifully.
Step 2: Make the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, water, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. The goal is a smooth, lump-free batter—think pancake batter consistency. This flavorful base ensures every cauliflower piece is seasoned inside and out, so don’t skimp on the spices!
Step 3: Coat the Cauliflower
Set up a “breading station” with your bowl of batter and another bowl filled with panko breadcrumbs. One by one, dip each floret into the batter, coating well, then allow the excess to drip off before rolling in the panko. Gently press to help the crumbs stick, giving you that coveted airy crunch once cooked.
Step 4: Air Fry to Crispy Perfection
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the battered, panko-coated florets in a single layer in the basket—don’t overcrowd, so air can circulate for maximum crunchiness. Lightly spray with olive oil and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping halfway through. They should emerge golden and irresistibly crisp.
Step 5: Toss with Buffalo Sauce
As soon as your Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings are golden, transfer them to a large bowl while still hot. Pour over your favorite buffalo or barbecue sauce and give them a gentle toss so every piece is gleaming and flavor-packed. For an extra hit of crisp, you can pop them back in the air fryer for another 2 minutes after saucing.
How to Serve Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings
Garnishes
Pile your Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings high and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley or chives for a burst of color and fresh flavor. If you’re feeling fancy, a quick zest of lemon over the top can give these wings a tangy edge that’s next level. Don’t forget a sprinkle of sea salt right before serving for that chef’s touch.
Side Dishes
Classic pairings like crisp celery sticks, carrot batons, and a side of vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing make these wings the ultimate game-day treat. For a light dinner or party platter, serve them alongside a crunchy slaw, baked sweet potato fries, or even a hearty grain salad for balance.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want your Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings to steal the spotlight, try threading them onto skewers for fun, easy grabbing. Arrange them on a platter with rainbow veggies and little ramekins of dip for an eye-catching appetizer, or layer them into lettuce wraps for a playful, low-carb twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They’ll lose a bit of that fresh-out-the-air-fryer crunch but will still be packed with flavor and perfect for quick snacking or lunch add-ons.
Freezing
For make-ahead convenience, you can freeze the cooked, unsauced wings. Let them cool completely, then spread on a baking sheet and freeze till solid before transferring to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to a month, ready to crisp up and sauce whenever you need them.
Reheating
To bring back some of that original texture, pop refrigerated or thawed wings back into the air fryer at 350°F for 4–5 minutes, or until hot and crispy. Add fresh sauce after reheating and you’re all set—no one will guess they weren’t just made!
FAQs
Can I make Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap the all-purpose flour and panko with your favorite gluten-free substitutes. The result is every bit as crunchy and crave-worthy, perfect for anyone avoiding gluten.
Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?
Fresh cauliflower works best for the crispiest texture, but you can use frozen florets in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw and dry them very well before battering to prevent sogginess.
What if I don’t have buffalo sauce?
No problem! Barbecue sauce, teriyaki glaze, or even a homemade hot honey sauce all work beautifully. These Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings are super versatile, so pick a sauce that makes your tastebuds happy.
How spicy are these wings?
The heat level depends on your buffalo sauce and seasoning choices. If you’re heat-sensitive or serving kids, try using a mild sauce or mix a little barbecue sauce into standard buffalo for a mellower taste.
Can I double the recipe for a party?
Definitely! Just be sure to air fry your cauliflower in batches so each floret gets enough space to crisp up perfectly. If you crowd the basket, you might miss out on that unbeatable crunch.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to shake up your appetizer game or just want a feel-good, flavor-forward snack, give Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings a spin in your kitchen. They’re easy, endlessly customizable, and sure to impress anyone lucky enough to snag a bite. Happy air frying!
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Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
These Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional buffalo wings. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated in a tangy buffalo sauce, they make a perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion.
Ingredients
Batter:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Coating:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Additional:
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (or barbecue sauce)
- olive oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Batter: In a bowl, whisk together flour, water, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to form a smooth batter.
- Coat Cauliflower: Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
- Air Fry: Arrange in air fryer basket, spray with olive oil, and cook for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Toss in Sauce: Transfer cooked cauliflower to a bowl, toss with buffalo sauce, and serve.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, air fry for an additional 2 minutes after saucing.
- Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing and celery sticks for a classic pairing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 740 mg
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
