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 head of cauliflower, cut into florets; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup almond milk (or any non-dairy milk); 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup hot sauce; 2 tablespoons melted butter or vegan alternative; 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup (optional)

Highlighted under: Warm Table Classics

I’ve always loved finding healthier alternatives to traditional snack foods, and these Super Bowl Crispy Cauliflower Wings have become my go-to. The idea of achieving that perfect crispiness without sacrificing flavor was a challenge I was excited to tackle. After experimenting with different batters and baking times, I discovered the secret to making them irresistibly crunchy while keeping the cauliflower tender inside. These wings are perfect for sharing with friends while cheering for our favorite team!

Created by

Jocelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:19:16.311Z

Creating these wings was not just about flavor; it was also an exploration of how seasonings blend with the natural taste of cauliflower. I was amazed at how flavorful they turned out with just the right combination of spices and a crispy coating that actually stayed on during cooking. I served them alongside a tangy dipping sauce that complemented the wings beautifully, making it hard to stop at just one.

One of the tips I discovered is allowing the battered cauliflower to sit for a few minutes before baking. This way, the coating adheres better and forms a beautiful crust while they roast. They turned out to be seriously crispy and a hit at my last gathering, and I can’t wait for the next Super Bowl to make them again!

        Why You'll Love These Wings
        Crispy and crunchy texture with every bite
Packed with flavor and customizable spice levels
A healthier, guilt-free snack for game day

      

The Perfect Crispy Coating

Achieving the ideal crispy texture is all about the coating process. When you dip the cauliflower florets in the batter, ensure that each piece is completely immersed for maximum adhesion of the breadcrumbs. A common mistake is not using enough batter, resulting in dry bites. Pay attention to the balance of flour and almond milk; it should be thick enough to coat without drenching. For extra crunch, consider adding a tablespoon of cornstarch to the dry mix, which helps create an extra crispy crust.

The choice of breadcrumbs can significantly influence the outcome. For an added depth of flavor, try using seasoned or panko breadcrumbs, which tend to yield a lighter, airier crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs are larger and crisp up beautifully in the oven, creating that sought-after texture. If you prefer a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for a delicious alternative without sacrificing crunch.

Flavor Enhancements

While the base recipe is delicious as is, you can elevate the flavor profile with additional spices. Experiment with cayenne pepper for heat, or add some Italian seasoning for an herby twist. A sprinkle of nutritional yeast can also impart a cheesy flavor without dairy. Just mix any spices of your choice directly into the batter or sprinkle them over the wings post-baking for an added burst of flavor.

If you want to create different versions of these wings for variety, consider tossing the baked cauliflower in other sauces. BBQ sauce, teriyaki, or even a mango habanero glaze can create exciting alternatives for diverse taste preferences. Keep the baking method the same, but just sub in your favorite sauce after they come out of the oven to avoid sogginess.

Ingredients

For the Cauliflower Wings

1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup almond milk (or any non-dairy milk)
1 cup breadcrumbs

For the Sauce

1/2 cup hot sauce
2 tablespoons melted butter or vegan alternative
1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup (optional)

Instructions

How to Make Crispy Cauliflower Wings

Preparation of Cauliflower

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, mix the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Gradually whisk in the almond milk until smooth.

Coating the Florets

Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, allowing excess to drip off. Then, roll them in breadcrumbs, ensuring they are well-coated.

Baking the Wings

Place the coated florets on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

Making the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix the hot sauce, melted butter, and honey (if using) until combined.

Tossing the Wings

Once the wings are baked, transfer them to a large bowl, drizzle the sauce over, and toss until well coated. Serve warm!

Enjoy Your Snack!

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, try double-coating the cauliflower florets by repeating the dipping and breadcrumb rolling steps. Also, feel free to adjust the spice level based on your preference by experimenting with different hot sauces or adding cayenne pepper to the batter.

Storage and Reheating

These crispy cauliflower wings are best enjoyed fresh; however, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispiness, reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Avoid the microwave, as it will make them soggy and ruin that delightful crunch.

If you have a larger batch prepared and ready for game day, you can freeze the uncooked, breaded cauliflower wings before baking. Lay them flat on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag. When you're ready to enjoy, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they are heated through and crispy.

Serving Suggestions

These cauliflower wings make an excellent starter or party food. Serve them with a variety of dipping sauces, such as ranch, blue cheese, or a creamy avocado dip, to cater to different tastes. Including fresh vegetable sticks like carrots and celery alongside will provide a refreshing contrast to the spicy wings.

For a fun twist, create a cauliflower wing platter. Arrange the wings with colorful dips and garnishes like chopped herbs for a visually appealing dish. Also, consider pairing these with a refreshing beverage — a light beer or a homemade citrus soda complements the heat and crunch beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Fresh cauliflower is recommended for the best results, but if using frozen, ensure it's thawed and fully dried before coating.

→ What toppings can I add?

You can add sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or crumbled feta for added flavor and texture!

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the florets and coat them a few hours in advance, then bake just before serving.