Vegan Cauliflower “Buffalo Wings” with Creamy Cashew Ranch

I’ve spent years developing vegan appetizers that satisfy even die-hard wing lovers. These cauliflower “buffalo wings” deliver the heat, crunch, and creaminess of the classic, without any chicken. Served with a homemade cashew-based ranch, they’re ideal for gatherings, movie nights, or any time you crave bold, plant-based flavor.

Ingredients

• For the “Wings”:

  • 1 head cauliflower, cut into bite-size florets

  • 1 cup unsweetened plant milk (almond or soy)

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • Pinch of salt and pepper

  • ½ cup hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot)

  • 2 tablespoons vegan butter, melted

• For the Cashew Ranch:

  • 1 cup raw cashews, soaked 4 hours and drained

  • ½ cup water

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

  • 1 garlic clove

  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prep & Batter Cauliflower

   • Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.

   • Whisk plant milk, flour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper into a smooth batter.

   • Dip each floret into batter, letting excess drip off. Place on sheet.

2. Bake & Crisp

   • Bake 20 minutes, flip florets, then bake 10–12 minutes until golden and crisp.

3. Toss in Buffalo Sauce

   • Combine hot sauce and vegan butter. Toss baked florets in sauce until evenly coated. Return to oven 5 minutes to set.

4. Make Cashew Ranch

   • Blend soaked cashews, water, lemon juice, garlic, and vinegar until smooth. Stir in dill, season with salt and pepper.

5. Serve

   • Arrange wings on a platter around a bowl of cashew ranch. Garnish with celery sticks.

Pro Tips

• Gluten-Free: Use a certified gluten-free flour blend.

• Extra Crisp: After initial bake, broil 1–2 minutes—watch closely to prevent burning.

• Spice Level: Adjust hot sauce ratio to control heat.

Why You’ll Love It

• True Texture: Crispy exterior with tender inside mimics chicken wings.

• Clean Ingredients: No processed meat, dairy, or artificial additives.

• Party-Ready: Easy to double for larger crowds.

Conclusion

These vegan cauliflower “buffalo wings” with creamy cashew ranch are proof that plant-based snacks can match – and even surpass – their traditional counterparts.