Irresistibly Crispy BBQ Cauliflower Wings: The Ultimate Vegan Appetizer & Game Day Delight
Get ready to discover your new favorite plant-based obsession: **BBQ cauliflower wings**! Crafted with just 9 essential ingredients, these are the perfect vegan wings for game day gatherings, casual weeknight dinners, or any occasion that calls for a burst of flavor. They boast an incredibly crispy and crunchy exterior, giving way to a tender, juicy interior, all generously coated in a luscious, sticky-sweet BBQ sauce. Forget long prep times – learn how to whip up these sensational wings in half the time, delivering maximum taste with minimal effort!
As the ‘Cauliflower Queen’ (or perhaps, a passionate advocate for this versatile vegetable) I’m thrilled to share another fantastic cauliflower recipe with you. These BBQ cauliflower wings are truly outstanding! They hit all the right notes: incredibly saucy, remarkably crispy and crunchy on the outside, and wonderfully tender within. You’ll find them to be a huge hit for game nights, as a show-stopping party appetizer, or even as a satisfying vegan main course or side dish for a relaxed weeknight meal. Their robust flavor and satisfying texture make them a fantastic alternative to traditional wings, appealing to vegans and meat-eaters alike.
Why You’ll Absolutely Love These BBQ Cauliflower Wings
- A Universal Party Favorite. Whether it’s the roar of game day, a lively celebration, or just an impromptu gathering of cherished friends, these BBQ cauliflower wings are an absolute guarantee to be a crowd-pleaser! Their familiar “wing” shape and irresistible BBQ coating make them a hit with everyone, proving that plant-based options can be just as exciting and satisfying as their traditional counterparts.
- Irresistible BBQ Flavor That Hooks You. There’s a magic to good BBQ sauce – that perfect balance of sweet, smoky, tangy, and a hint of spice. This recipe harnesses that power, coating each cauliflower floret in a rich, deeply flavorful sauce that is truly impossible to resist. It’s comforting, exciting, and utterly delicious.
- Baked for a Lighter, Healthier Crunch (Not Fried!). Cauliflower wings have surged in popularity, appearing on menus everywhere. While delicious, they are often deep-fried. Our recipe offers a healthier, lighter approach, achieving that desired crispy texture through an easy baking method. This means less oil, less mess, and a guilt-free indulgence that you can enjoy more often.
- Remarkably Versatile. These wings aren’t just for appetizers! Serve them with a crisp salad for a light lunch, alongside grains and vegetables for a hearty vegan dinner, or as a vibrant side dish to complement other entrees. They fit seamlessly into any meal plan.
- Easy to Customize to Your Taste. From choosing your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce to experimenting with homemade variations or adjusting the spice level in the batter, this recipe is incredibly forgiving and adaptable. Make it your own by adding a dash of cayenne for heat or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for extra depth.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Vegan BBQ Wings
Crafting these delectable BBQ cauliflower wings requires a simple lineup of ingredients, each playing a crucial role in achieving that perfect crispy texture and rich flavor. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:
For precise quantities and step-by-step instructions, make sure to scroll down to the full recipe card below.
- Cauliflower: The star of our show! I typically use a medium-sized head of cauliflower. When selecting, look for a firm, dense head with tightly packed florets and fresh, green leaves. If you opt for a larger cauliflower, you might want to consider doubling the quantities for the batter and BBQ sauce to ensure every piece is perfectly coated and flavorful. Cutting the florets into uniform, “wing-like” sizes is key for even cooking and a satisfying bite.
- Flour: All-purpose flour provides the foundational structure for our crispy batter. For those who are gluten-sensitive or prefer a gluten-free option, a good quality all-purpose gluten-free flour blend works beautifully. It helps the batter adhere to the cauliflower and creates the initial crust.
- Cornstarch: This is your secret weapon for ultimate crispiness! Cornstarch helps draw out any excess moisture from the cauliflower, preventing a soggy batter, and contributes significantly to achieving that desirable extra crunchy exterior. Don’t skip it if you want restaurant-quality texture.
- Vegan Milk: Any unsweetened plant-based milk will work wonders for the batter, providing the necessary liquid to create a smooth, pourable consistency. However, for a slightly richer batter that adheres better, I highly recommend using a thicker variety like soy milk or cashew milk. Almond milk or oat milk are also great choices.
- Seasonings: While the recipe calls for sea salt, ground black pepper, and garlic powder, feel free to elevate your batter with your favorite BBQ seasoning blend. Smoked paprika, onion powder, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a touch of chili powder can add fantastic depth and a personalized kick to your wings. Don’t be shy about experimenting!
- Breadcrumbs: For that truly exceptional crispy exterior, panko breadcrumbs are highly recommended. Panko, a type of Japanese breadcrumb, is lighter and flakier than traditional breadcrumbs, resulting in a crispier finish. If you need a gluten-free version, readily available gluten-free panko breadcrumbs are an excellent substitute (and remember to use gluten-free flour as well!). For extra flavor, you can lightly season the breadcrumbs with a pinch of salt and pepper too.
- BBQ Sauce: This is truly the highlight, bringing all the flavors together! The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility: you can use your absolute favorite store-bought BBQ sauce for ultimate convenience. This makes the prep incredibly quick and easy. Alternatively, for an extra special touch, you can try making my Roasted Strawberry Barbecue Sauce, which adds a unique fruity sweetness. Just ensure your sauce isn’t too thick; thin it slightly with water if needed for easier coating.
How to Make Perfect Baked BBQ Cauliflower Wings
Making these BBQ cauliflower wings is a straightforward process that yields incredibly delicious results. Follow these steps for crispy, saucy perfection:
- Prep the Cauliflower. Begin by carefully removing the outer leaves from the cauliflower head. Using a sharp knife, cut the florets away from the core. Aim to chop the cauliflower into bite-sized pieces that roughly resemble the size and shape of traditional chicken wings. This ensures even baking and makes them easy to handle and eat. You can even leave a small bit of the stem on for a convenient handle!
- Prepare the Batter. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, vegan milk, sea salt, ground black pepper, and garlic powder. Whisk these ingredients together until you achieve a smooth, lump-free batter. The consistency should be similar to a thick pancake batter – thick enough to coat the cauliflower, but still pourable. If it’s too thick, gradually add a little more vegan milk. If it’s too thin, a tiny bit more flour can help.
- Batter the Cauliflower Efficiently. Set up a “dredging station” on your countertop: your bowl of batter, followed by a separate bowl containing the seasoned breadcrumbs, and finally your prepared baking sheet. Add all the cauliflower florets to the batter mixture at once. Using a spatula or large spoon, gently toss and stir the cauliflower until every floret is thoroughly coated in the batter. This method is much faster than dipping each piece individually!
- Coat with Panko for Maximum Crunch. Transfer the battered cauliflower wings, in two or three manageable batches, into the bowl of breadcrumbs. Gently toss them to ensure a complete and even coating. Press lightly if needed to help the panko adhere. This breadcrumb layer is crucial for that fantastic crispiness.
- Initial Bake for Crispiness. Arrange the coated cauliflower florets onto your prepared baking sheet, ensuring each “wing” has enough space around it. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of crisping, so use two baking sheets if necessary. Bake them in a preheated oven for approximately 22 minutes. This first bake sets the crust and cooks the cauliflower to tender perfection. Remove from the oven when lightly golden.
- Sauce and Second Bake. Now for the delicious BBQ coating! You have two options: either transfer the partially baked wings into a large bowl, pour in the BBQ sauce, and gently toss them with a spatula until they are thoroughly coated. Alternatively, for a more controlled application, you can brush the BBQ sauce evenly onto each wing while they are still on the baking sheet. Once sauced, return the wings to the oven for another 5 minutes. This crucial second bake allows the sauce to soak in, caramelize slightly, and become wonderfully sticky, completing the signature BBQ wing experience.
- Serve Immediately. Once out of the oven, transfer your magnificent BBQ cauliflower wings to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped scallions or chives for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve them piping hot and watch them disappear!
Tips for Achieving the Best BBQ Cauliflower Wings
To ensure your BBQ cauliflower wings turn out perfect every time, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Cut the Right Size for That “Wing” Feel. When you’re cutting the cauliflower florets off the stem, resist the urge to make them too small. Aim for pieces that are substantial enough to feel like hand-held “wings.” Leaving a little bit of stem on can even provide a natural handle, making them easier to dip and enjoy!
- Streamline Your Coating Process. Forget dipping each cauliflower piece individually – that’s a time-consuming and unnecessary step! As demonstrated, you can toss all the cauliflower florets into the batter at once, and then transfer them in batches to the breadcrumbs for coating. This technique saves a significant amount of time and energy, getting these delicious wings to your table (and into your mouth) much faster!
- Achieve the Perfect Sauce Consistency. The consistency of your BBQ sauce is vital. If you’re using a very thick store-bought sauce, it might become too clumpy or heavy when baked. Thin it out slightly with a tablespoon or two of water, vegetable broth, or even a splash of apple cider vinegar until it reaches a more spreadable, glaze-like consistency.
- Don’t Skip the Cornstarch (Unless Absolutely Necessary). While you *can* omit cornstarch if you must, it plays a critical role in achieving that extra crispy and crunchy texture. It works by drawing out excess liquid from the cauliflower and creating a delicate, protective shell around each floret. If you’re looking for maximum crisp, keep it in!
- Invest in a Silicone Baking Mat. I cannot recommend using a silicone baking sheet enough for this recipe. These mats are truly non-stick, ensuring your cauliflower wings don’t stick to the pan and making cleanup incredibly easy. They also promote even baking and browning. Parchment paper is a good alternative if you don’t have a silicone mat.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Baking Sheet. For the crispiest results, arrange your coated cauliflower florets in a single layer on the baking sheet, leaving some space between each piece. If the pan is too crowded, the cauliflower will steam instead of roast and crisp, leading to a softer, less desirable texture. Use two baking sheets if needed.
- Ensure Your Oven is Fully Preheated. A hot oven is crucial for instant crisping. Make sure your oven has reached the specified temperature (450°F/230°C) before placing the wings inside. This helps the batter set quickly and prevents the cauliflower from becoming soggy.
- Bake Until Golden Before Saucing. The initial bake is all about getting that crispy crust. Look for a light golden-brown color and a firm exterior before you add the BBQ sauce. This ensures the crunch remains even after the saucing step.
How to Store and Reheat Leftover BBQ Cauliflower Wings
While these wings are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, you can certainly store and reheat any leftovers.
Keep leftover BBQ cauliflower wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, for the best texture, I recommend using a 400ºF (200°C) oven or air fryer until they are warmed through and crisp up again. The microwave can warm them, but they may lose some crispiness.
Can I Freeze This Recipe?
Yes, you can freeze BBQ cauliflower wings, though it’s important to note that their texture might not be quite as crispy as freshly baked when reheated. If a slight change in texture doesn’t bother you, store them in a single layer in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat for optimal results, I recommend thawing them in the refrigerator overnight first, and then reheating them in a hot oven or air fryer until thoroughly warmed and re-crisped.
Explore More Delicious Cauliflower Wing Recipes
If you love the versatility and flavor of cauliflower wings, you’re in for a treat! Check out some of my other popular variations:
- Lemon Pepper Cauliflower Wings
- Mango Habanero Cauliflower Wings
- Buffalo Cauliflower Wings
- Bang Bang Cauliflower Wings
- Sticky Sesame Cauliflower Wings
- Sweet and Sour Cauliflower Wings
Enjoy, friends! I hope these BBQ Cauliflower Wings become a beloved staple in your kitchen. If you give this recipe a try, please be sure to snap a photo and tag #jessicainthekitchen on Instagram! We absolutely love seeing your culinary creations. Also, we’d be thrilled if you could leave a comment below and give the recipe a rating! Your feedback means the world. Thanks so much for being here!
BBQ Cauliflower Wings
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, (if using a large head, you may need to double the batter and sauce quantities)
- ¾ cup flour, (all-purpose gluten free flour or regular all purpose flour)
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- ¾ cup unsweetened vegan milk, any kind works
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs seasoned with salt & pepper, gluten-free breadcrumbs works too
- 1 ½ cups bbq sauce, (barbecue sauce) storebought or try my homemade recipe
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450°F/230° C.
- Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with a silicone baking sheet or greased foil.
- Using a knife, remove florets from the cauliflower (aka cut off the leaves and don’t use the most of the stems. You can leave a little piece on at the ends to hold on to). Chop the cauliflower into smaller pieces to resemble the size of the wings.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, cornstarch, vegan milk, sea salt, ground black pepper and garlic powder in a bowl to make the batter. If the batter is too thick, feel free to thin it out with some more milk and vice versa. In a separate bowl, place the breadcrumbs. Line it up beside the batter bowl.
- Toss the cauliflower in the batter mixture (you can add them all at once), using a spatula or spoon to coat them all. Transfer them to the breadcrumbs (you can do this in two or three batches) to coat completely, then place onto the baking sheet, giving each wing enough space. Repeat until all of the wings are coated.
- Bake for 22 minutes. Please ensure your oven is completely preheated and hot.
- While baking, prepare the ingredients for the sauce by heating & whisking together. If you’re using store-bought bbq sauce, you may want to sightly thin it out with some water. Heat it up in a pot on the stove, or a large bowl in your microwave until warm. Allow it to cool before putting it on the wings.
- Remove from oven. Toss the wings in the sauce (I like to use a spatula to move them around to get properly coated) then using tongs or a spoon, remove and place back on the baking sheet OR brush the bbq sauce onto each wings. Bake for another 5 minutes for the sauce to soak into the wings.
- Remove from oven and, and garnish with scallions! Eat immediately – enjoy!
Notes
Disclaimer: Although jessicainthekitchen.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, kindly note that these are only estimates. Nutritional information may be affected based on the product type, the brand that was purchased, and in other unforeseeable ways. Jessicainthekitchen.com will not be held liable for any loss or damage resulting for your reliance on nutritional information. If you need to follow a specific caloric regimen, please consult your doctor first.