Bang Bang Cauliflower Wings

A golden-brown cloud of spicy, creamy delight lifts as you break apart the crispy batter of these Bang Bang Cauliflower Wings. This irresistible appetizer takes just about 30 minutes to prepare and bake, showcasing cauliflower’s versatility in a fun, crunchy format. With the perfect balance of spice and creaminess, this recipe will surely become a hit during game day or any party.

This dish is perfect for anyone craving a delicious, healthier alternative to traditional chicken wings. It’s a great option for those following a vegetarian or gluten-free lifestyle. Not to mention, the wings can be prepped ahead of time and stored for later, making them a convenient choice for quick snacking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The crispy texture of the cauliflower contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
• Air frying makes it a healthier version without sacrificing flavor.
• The bright, spicy bang bang sauce elevates each bite.
• Quick to prepare, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to bring these wings to life:

For the Cauliflower Wings

• 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup water

For the Bang Bang Sauce

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (or to taste)
• 1 teaspoon lime juice

Use gluten-free flour as an alternative to almond flour.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Cauliflower can be swapped with broccoli.
• Use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise.
• Vary the spice level by adjusting sriracha.
• Substitute lime juice with lemon juice.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to create your crispy wings.

Preheat

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is essential for getting a crispy finish on your wings.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Ensure well mixed for even seasoning.

Mix Batter

In another bowl, mix water with the dry ingredients until you get a smooth batter. This will help the wings achieve the perfect coating.

Dip Cauliflower

Dip the cauliflower florets into the batter, ensuring they are well coated. A thorough coating helps achieve maximum crispiness after cooking.

Air Fry

Place the coated cauliflower in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through until golden and crispy.

Whisk Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice to make the bang bang sauce. This creamy dip complements the spicy wings perfectly.

Toss Cauliflower

Toss the fried cauliflower in the sauce until well coated. Make sure each piece is evenly covered for the best flavor in every bite.

Serve

Serve immediately as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. Enjoy the dish while it’s still warm for optimal texture and taste!

How to Store It

Fridge: up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: no, best served fresh.
Reheat: air fry at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure the cauliflower pieces are uniform for even cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; it’s better to cook in batches.
• Allow the wings to cool slightly before tossing them in the sauce to maintain their crispiness.
• Add more sriracha if you prefer a spicier kick.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a cool dip like ranch or blue cheese.
• Serve alongside veggie sticks for a complete snack platter.
• Perfect for game day or casual gatherings with friends.