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Looking for a tasty snack that’s both crispy and satisfying? Try my Crispy Sesame Cauliflower Wings! These plant-based bites pack a punch of flavor while being easy to make. With the right ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a fun appetizer or side dish. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet night in, this recipe will impress and delight. Let’s dive into how to make them!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Crispy Perfection: The cauliflower wings turn out incredibly crispy on the outside while remaining tender on the inside, making each bite a delight.
- Flavorful Sauce: The combination of soy sauce, maple syrup, and sriracha creates a sweet and savory glaze that elevates the wings to a whole new level.
- Healthy Alternative: These wings are a fantastic plant-based option that satisfies cravings without compromising on taste.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level and add different herbs or toppings to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Crispy Sesame Cauliflower Wings
– 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
– 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
– 1 cup almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
The main ingredients for crispy sesame cauliflower wings are simple yet effective. Cauliflower is the star here. It gives a nice bite and absorbs flavors well. You can use all-purpose flour or switch it to gluten-free flour if you prefer. Almond milk adds moisture and helps the breading stick to the florets.
Seasonings and Coatings
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
– 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
Now, let’s talk about seasonings. Garlic powder and onion powder add depth to the flavor. Salt and black pepper bring out the natural taste of the cauliflower. Smoked paprika adds a hint of smokiness. For the coating, panko breadcrumbs give an extra crunch. Mixing in sesame seeds adds a delicious nutty flavor that makes these wings irresistible.
Sauce Ingredients
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sriracha (optional for heat)
The sauce is where the magic happens. Soy sauce gives a savory base. Maple syrup adds sweetness and helps with caramelization. Rice vinegar brings a nice tang. If you like heat, sriracha is a great addition. This sauce brings everything together and makes your cauliflower wings truly special.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing for Baking
Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C). This high heat gives the wings their crispy texture. Next, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This step helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Breading the Cauliflower
Create three breading stations. In one bowl, mix the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. In a second bowl, pour your almond milk. In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and sesame seeds for extra crunch.
To coat the cauliflower, take each floret and dip it into the flour mix first. Shake off any extra flour. Next, dip it into the almond milk, letting the excess drip off. Finally, coat it in the breadcrumb mix. Press gently to make sure it sticks well. Place the coated florets on your prepared baking sheet.
Baking Process
Bake the cauliflower wings in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Make sure to flip them halfway through. This helps them cook evenly and get crispy all around. Look for a golden brown color for the perfect crispiness. Enjoy the wonderful aroma as they bake!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Maximum Crispiness
To get that perfect crunch, use panko breadcrumbs. Panko has a light and airy texture. This helps your cauliflower wings stay crispy longer. Regular breadcrumbs can work, but they may not give you the same result.
For baking techniques, start with a hot oven. Preheat it to 450°F (230°C). This high heat helps the wings crisp up quickly. Make sure to flip the wings halfway through baking. This helps both sides get nice and crunchy.
Flavor Enhancements
You can add spices to boost the flavor. Try adding cayenne pepper for heat. A pinch of cumin can add a nice warmth. Mix it into your breading for an extra kick.
For dipping sauces, think outside the box. Ranch dressing is a classic choice. But you can also try tahini or a spicy peanut sauce. These will add new flavors to your wings.
Serving Suggestions
Garnish your wings with fresh cilantro or sliced green onions. This adds color and freshness to your dish. You can also sprinkle some extra sesame seeds on top for crunch.
Pair your cauliflower wings with sides for a full meal. Serve them with a light salad or crispy fries. The mix of textures will make your meal even more enjoyable.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Cauliflower: Fresh cauliflower ensures the best texture and flavor. Avoid any florets that are discolored or soft.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add your favorite spices to the breading mixture for a personal twist; cayenne pepper or Italian seasoning can add great flavor.
- Double Coat for Extra Crunch: For an even crispier result, dip the floret in the flour mixture, then almond milk, and repeat before coating in breadcrumbs.
- Let Them Rest: Allow the coated cauliflower to sit for a few minutes before baking. This helps the breading adhere better during cooking.

Variations
Healthier Alternatives
You can make crispy sesame cauliflower wings even better with some simple swaps.
– Using alternative flours: Try almond flour or chickpea flour instead of all-purpose flour. These flours add more nutrients. They also keep the wings gluten-free.
– Low-sodium sauce options: Reduce sodium by using low-sodium soy sauce. You can also mix in some lemon juice for extra flavor without the salt.
Flavor Tweaks
You can change the taste of your wings by adding different spices or sauces.
– Adding spices or different sauces: Consider adding cumin or chili powder for a warm kick. Alternatively, you could use BBQ sauce or teriyaki sauce for a sweet twist.
– Adjusting heat levels with various hot sauces: If you enjoy heat, use your favorite hot sauce. Sriracha works well, but you can also try buffalo sauce for a tangy punch.
Other Vegetable Options
Cauliflower wings are great, but you can explore other veggies too.
– Different vegetables to try as wings: Try using broccoli, eggplant, or even zucchini. Each of these veggies has a unique taste and texture.
– Creative combinations with cauliflower: Mix cauliflower with chickpeas or sweet potatoes. These combinations can add flavor and nutrition to your snack.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To store leftover crispy sesame cauliflower wings, place them in an airtight container. Make sure to let them cool first. Keeping them in the fridge helps maintain their flavor and freshness. For best results, eat them within three days. To keep the wings crispy, avoid stacking them. Instead, place them in a single layer.
Reheating Instructions
When you want to eat the leftovers, the best method is using an oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the cauliflower wings on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10-15 minutes. This helps restore their crispiness. If you have an air fryer, that works great too! Heat them at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
Freezing Option
Yes, you can freeze cauliflower wings! To freeze them, let them cool completely. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. Try to remove as much air as you can to prevent freezer burn. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you want to eat them, thaw them in the fridge overnight. After thawing, follow the reheating instructions for the best texture.
FAQs
What’s the best way to make crispy cauliflower wings?
To make the best crispy cauliflower wings, focus on a few key techniques. First, use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch. They create a lovely texture. Second, coat each floret well. Dip it into the flour mix, then almond milk, and finally the breadcrumbs. Make sure to press the breadcrumbs on firmly. Finally, bake at 450°F (230°C) and flip halfway through for even cooking. This ensures all sides get crispy.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free. Instead of all-purpose flour, use gluten-free flour. It’s just as effective for the coating. For the breadcrumbs, choose gluten-free panko. Both swaps keep the flavor and texture without the gluten.
How do I make a different sauce for cauliflower wings?
You can create many different sauces for your cauliflower wings. Try mixing yogurt, lemon juice, and herbs for a tangy dip. For a spicy kick, blend hot sauce and honey. You could also make a sweet and tangy sauce with barbecue sauce and maple syrup. Experiment with flavors to find your favorite!
What can I serve with crispy sesame cauliflower wings?
Crispy sesame cauliflower wings pair well with various sides. Serve them with a fresh salad, like a cucumber and tomato salad. You could also offer dipping sauces, like ranch or tahini. For a full meal, add some roasted vegetables or a grain like quinoa. The options are endless!
This blog post covered the key ingredients and steps for making crispy sesame cauliflower wings. We discussed the main ingredients needed, how to achieve the perfect crunch, and various flavor options. It’s clear that with a few tweaks, you can customize this dish to fit your taste. Remember, whether you choose to bake, store, or serve, these wings can satisfy any craving. Enjoy experimenting and discovering your favorite versions. Enjoy your delicious and crispy cauliflower wing
Crispy Sesame Cauliflower Wings
Deliciously crispy cauliflower wings coated in a flavorful sesame breadcrumb mixture, served with a tangy sauce.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine Vegan
- 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
- 1 cup almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (optional for heat)
- to taste fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the Breading Stations: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. In another bowl, pour the almond milk. In a third bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs and sesame seeds.
Coat the Cauliflower: Dip each cauliflower floret into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the almond milk, allowing the excess to drip off, and finally coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Place the coated florets on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake the Cauliflower: Bake the cauliflower wings in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping them halfway through for even cooking.
Prepare the Sauce: While the wings are baking, whisk together soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, and sriracha (if using) in a small bowl.
Glaze the Wings: Once the cauliflower wings are crispy, remove them from the oven, and immediately drizzle or toss them in the sauce until well coated.
Serve: Return the wings to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to caramelize the sauce slightly.
Garnish and Enjoy: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced green onions, and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce (like ranch or tahini).
For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs.
Keyword appetizer, cauliflower, crispy, vegan, wings
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