Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower Wings: A Crispy, Spicy Delight
Introduction
If you’re craving a crunchy, spicy, and utterly delicious appetizer, these Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower Wings are the perfect choice. They are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated in a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce that will keep you coming back for more. This recipe is not only plant-based but also easy to make, whether you choose to bake or air fry the cauliflower. In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to create the perfect crispy bang bang cauliflower at home.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Cauliflower
- Crispy & Flavorful: The perfect blend of crunch and spice.
- Dairy-Free & Gluten-Free Options: Easily adaptable for dietary needs.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients with minimal prep time.
- Great for Any Occasion: Perfect for appetizers, game nights, or meal prep.

Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cauliflower Wings:
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Cauliflower head | 1 (cut into florets) |
All-purpose flour (or gluten-free alternative) | 1 cup |
Plant-based milk | 3/4 cup |
Garlic powder | 1 tsp |
Smoked paprika | 1 tsp |
Salt | 1/2 tsp |
Black pepper | 1/2 tsp |
Panko breadcrumbs | 1 cup |
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
Ingredient | Quantity |
Vegan mayo | 1/2 cup |
Sriracha sauce | 2 tbsp |
Maple syrup or agave | 1 tbsp |
Lime juice | 1 tbsp |
Garlic powder | 1/2 tsp |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cauliflower
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) or set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets and set aside.
2. Make the Batter
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, plant-based milk, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Coat the Cauliflower
- Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring an even coating.
- Roll the coated florets in panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.
4. Cook the Cauliflower Wings
Oven Method:
- Place the coated cauliflower on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
Air Fryer Method:
- Arrange the florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 15–18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until crispy.
5. Make the Bang Bang Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix vegan mayo, sriracha, maple syrup, lime juice, and garlic powder until smooth.
6. Toss & Serve
- Once the cauliflower is cooked, transfer it to a bowl and toss with the bang bang sauce until well coated.
- Serve immediately and garnish with fresh parsley, green onions, or sesame seeds.
Tips for the Best Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower
- For extra crispiness, bake the cauliflower on a wire rack.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less sriracha.
- Use gluten-free panko for a gluten-free option.
- Meal prep tip: Store the cooked cauliflower separately from the sauce and toss before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Bake or air fry the cauliflower ahead of time and reheat in the oven or air fryer before tossing in the sauce.
Is there a substitute for vegan mayo?
You can use blended silken tofu or cashew cream as a mayo alternative.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Fresh cauliflower is recommended, but if using frozen, make sure to thaw and pat it dry before coating.Conclusion
Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower Wings are a fantastic plant-based alternative to traditional wings. They’re crispy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you bake or air fry them, they’ll be a hit with both vegans and non-vegans alike. Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out!
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