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Crunchy BBQ Cauliflower Wings are everything I love about comfort food with none of the guilt. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they offer all the flavor of traditional wings but in a plant-powered form. They’ve quickly become a favorite in our house for movie nights and potlucks alike.
I made these for a backyard cookout and even the meat lovers were going back for seconds
Ingredients
- Cauliflower florets: from a large head for hearty bites and great sauce absorption
- Almond flour: adds crunch and is rich in healthy fats
- Tapioca flour: helps create that signature crisp finish use arrowroot as a backup
- Garlic powder: adds a savory depth without overpowering
- Smoked paprika: gives the wings a warm smoky undertone
- Salt: to enhance all the other flavors
- Black pepper: adds a mild heat that balances the BBQ glaze
- Unsweetened plant based milk: helps bind the batter avoid flavored varieties
- BBQ sauce: choose your favorite just make sure it's thick and bold
- Maple syrup: gives a hint of sweetness and helps caramelize the glaze
- Chopped parsley or green onions: for a fresh colorful finish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and crisp texture
- Mix the Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl whisk together the almond flour tapioca flour garlic powder smoked paprika salt and black pepper until evenly combined
- Add the Milk:
- Slowly pour in the plant based milk whisking constantly until you get a smooth thick batter that sticks to a spoon
- Coat the Cauliflower:
- Dip each floret into the batter making sure every crevice is covered then place on the parchment lined baking sheet with space in between
- Bake the First Round:
- Bake the florets for 20 minutes then carefully flip and bake for another 15 minutes until golden brown and crisp
- Warm the BBQ Sauce:
- In a small saucepan over low heat warm the BBQ sauce and stir in the maple syrup until well combined
- Glaze the Wings:
- Remove the baked cauliflower and gently toss with the warm BBQ glaze ensuring each piece is fully coated
- Final Bake:
- Return the glazed wings to the oven for 10 minutes so the sauce caramelizes and clings beautifully to the crisp coating
- Serve:
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley or green onions and serve immediately for best texture and flavor
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You Must Know
The almond flour gives such a satisfying crunch and I always think of my nephew who begged me to bring a tray of these to his birthday last year
Storage Tips
Let leftovers cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep them crispy
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use oat flour or chickpea flour instead of almond for a nut free option and try any unsweetened non dairy milk like soy or oat if almond is unavailable
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side of carrot and celery sticks plus a tangy vegan ranch dip or add to wraps tacos or grain bowls for a hearty main course
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Cultural and Historical Context
Cauliflower wings grew out of the plant based movement as a delicious alternative to meat based appetizers Their popularity soared with the rise of vegan and gluten free eating
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → How do I make cauliflower wings crispy?
Use a combination of almond and tapioca flour for the batter, and bake at high heat. Flipping halfway and using parchment paper helps ensure even crispiness.
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake them ahead and reheat in the oven or air fryer before serving to regain their crunch. Avoid microwaving to preserve texture.
- → Are BBQ cauliflower wings gluten-free?
Yes, this version uses almond and tapioca flour, making it gluten-free. Just ensure your BBQ sauce is also gluten-free.
- → What type of BBQ sauce should I use?
Use your favorite style smoky, sweet, or spicy. A Texas-style or maple-sweetened BBQ sauce both work wonderfully.
- → Can I air fry instead of baking?
Yes, you can air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, shaking halfway through, for an even crispier finish.
- → What sides go well with cauliflower wings?
Try pairing with vegan ranch, celery sticks, roasted potatoes, or serve over greens as a salad topper.