Looking for the perfect way to make Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings? This step-by-step guide will help you create a plant-based snack that’s crispy, flavorful, and guilt-free! Whether you’re hosting game night, meal prepping, or just craving something crunchy, these wings are sure to satisfy. Justin from Cooking with Coit shares his clean comfort cooking twist on this classic dish, proving that cauliflower can rival chicken in texture and taste. Keep reading to discover how to whip up these irresistible bites right in your air fryer!
Why You Will Love This Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings Recipe?
There’s so much to love about air fryer cauliflower wings—they’re healthy, easy to make, and packed with bold flavors. Here’s why this recipe is a must-try:
- Plant-Based Perfection: Enjoy all the flavor of traditional wings without the meat.
- Crispy Texture: The air fryer delivers a satisfying crunch without deep frying.
- Customizable Sauce: Use your favorite hot sauce or experiment with different seasonings.
- Quick & Simple: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients List 🥦🌶️
Here’s what you’ll need to make these crispy cauliflower wings:
✅ 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets (about 1-inch pieces)
✅ 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free alternative)
✅ 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy like almond or oat milk)
✅ ¾ cup hot sauce (Frank’s Red Hot recommended!)
✅ 1 tbsp melted butter (or vegan butter for dairy-free)
✅ 1 tsp paprika
✅ 1 tsp garlic powder
✅ 1 tsp onion powder
✅ ½ tsp salt
✅ ¼ tsp black pepper
✅ Olive oil spray (for greasing the air fryer basket)
✅ Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Optional Swaps: Try BBQ sauce instead of hot sauce for a sweeter option.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to achieve perfectly air fryer cauliflower wings:
- Prepare the Cauliflower
Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets, roughly the size of chicken nuggets. Set aside. - Make the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well combined. Gradually add 1 cup of milk, whisking continuously to eliminate lumps. The batter should be thick and smooth. - Coat the Cauliflower
Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring they’re fully coated. Avoid small crumbs—they won’t crisp up well. - Prep the Air Fryer
Lightly coat the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Arrange the battered cauliflower in a single layer, leaving space between pieces for proper airflow. - Cook the Cauliflower
Cook at 380°F for 10–12 minutes. At the halfway mark, shake the basket or use a spatula to separate any stuck pieces. Continue cooking until golden and crispy. - Prepare the Sauce
While the cauliflower cooks, mix ¾ cup of hot sauce with 1 tablespoon of melted butter in a bowl. Stir until well combined. - Toss in Sauce
Once cooked, transfer the crispy cauliflower to the sauce mixture. Toss gently to coat evenly. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
For more tips on air frying vegetables, check out this article from Bon Appétit.
Pro Tips & Variations
Want to take your air fryer cauliflower wings to the next level? Try these expert tricks:
- Double Fry Method: For extra crispiness, return the sauced cauliflower to the air fryer for 2–3 minutes after tossing.
- Spice It Up: Add cayenne pepper or sriracha to the batter for an extra kick.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute almond flour or chickpea flour for a gluten-free version.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. Check out our Twice Baked Potato Casserole Recipe
Storage & Reheating Tips
Leftovers happen, and that’s okay! Here’s how to store and reheat your air fryer cauliflower wings:
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change.
- Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes to restore crispiness. Microwaving isn’t recommended, as it can make them soggy.
For more storage hacks, explore our guide to preserving leftovers. And don’t forget to browse related recipes like Air Fryer Zucchini Fries.
FAQ
Q: Can I bake these instead of using an air fryer?
A: Yes, bake at 400°F on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Q: What’s the best way to prevent sticking?
A: Lightly grease the air fryer basket and avoid overcrowding the florets.
