How do you make crispy cauliflower wings in the air fryer?

For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs and cornstarch in the coating. A similar crisp technique works wonders in recipes like Almond-Crusted Chicken Tenders . Cooking at the right temperature and avoiding overcrowding also ensures crunchier wings.

What’s the best temperature for air fryer cauliflower wings?

The ideal temperature is 375°F (190°C) to ensure they cook evenly and become crispy.

Are cauliflower wings healthier than traditional wings?

Yes! Air fryer cauliflower wings are lower in calories and fat compared to fried chicken wings. Plus, they’re packed with fiber and nutrients.

Can I make air fryer cauliflower wings without breading?

Absolutely! Skip the breadcrumbs and opt for a light dusting of cornstarch and seasoning for a low-carb cauliflower wings version.

Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings: Crispy & Healthy

Description

Crispy, flavorful, and completely plant-based, these Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings are the ultimate healthy snack or game-day treat! Packed with bold flavors and a satisfying crunch, they’re easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a long-time cauliflower fan or a skeptic, this recipe will win you over.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cauliflower Wings:

1 head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
1/2 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk (soy or oat preferred)
1/4 cup cornstarch (or substitute arrowroot or potato starch)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour (use a gluten-free blend if needed)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)

For the Sauce:

1/2 cup Buffalo sauce (such as Frank’s Red Hot)
2 tablespoons vegan butter, melted
1 teaspoon white vinegar

For Serving:

Ranch or blue cheese dressing (vegan if needed)
Celery sticks & carrot sticks

Instructions

Prepare the batter: In a bowl, whisk together the non-dairy milk and cornstarch until smooth. In a separate bowl, mix the flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Coat the cauliflower: Dip each cauliflower floret into the wet batter, then dredge in the flour mixture. Finally, coat with panko breadcrumbs for added crunch.
Air fry: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the coated cauliflower in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 7-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, mix Buffalo sauce, melted vegan butter, and white vinegar.
Toss the wings: Once the cauliflower is crispy, remove from the air fryer and toss with the Buffalo sauce until well coated.
Final crisp: Return the coated wings to the air fryer and cook for an additional 2 minutes to set the sauce.
Serve immediately: Arrange the wings on a platter with ranch or blue cheese dressing and celery & carrot sticks on the side.

Notes

For extra crispy wings, double-coat the cauliflower by dipping it back into the flour mixture after the first coating. If you prefer a milder flavor, mix the Buffalo sauce with honey or BBQ sauce.

Prep Time: 10
Cook Time: 15
Category: Snack, Appetizer
Method: Air Fryer
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Calories: ~180 kcal
Sugar: ~2g
Sodium: ~450mg
Fat: ~7g
Saturated Fat: ~2g
Unsaturated Fat: ~5g
Carbohydrates: ~25g
Fiber: ~4g
Protein: ~5g

Keywords: Air fryer cauliflower wings, crispy cauliflower bites, vegan wings, buffalo cauliflower, healthy air fryer snacks, plant-based appetizer