Baked Spicy Honey BBQ Cauliflower Wings

Baked Spicy Honey BBQ Cauliflower Wings

Whenever I crave something crunchy and flavorful, I often turn to my favorite snack: Baked Spicy Honey BBQ Cauliflower Wings. These delightful bites pack a punch of flavor that satisfy every craving. I remember the first time I made them for a game night with friends. I wanted to create something that everyone could enjoy, and these cauliflower wings were a hit! The combination of the spicy and sweet honey BBQ sauce over crispy roasted cauliflower is simply irresistible. They disappeared within minutes, and I knew I had found a winner recipe. You can enjoy them as an appetizer, a side dish, or even as a main course. The versatility of this dish means it fits perfectly into any meal or occasion!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
40 mins
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
30 mins
Difficulty:
Medium
Calories:
150 kcal
Protein:
4 g
Diet:
Gluten-Free
Fat:
7 g
Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Whisk, Oven, Saucepan, Baking Sheet

What We Adore About This Baked Spicy Honey BBQ Cauliflower Wings

Healthier Alternative

One of the reasons I love Baked Spicy Honey BBQ Cauliflower Wings is that they provide a healthier alternative to traditional wings. Cauliflower is packed with nutrients and is low in calories, making it a guilt-free snack that you can indulge in without worrying about your diet.

Flavor Explosion

The flavor profile of this dish is simply amazing. The combination of spices used in the batter, along with the honey BBQ sauce, creates a delicious explosion of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Each bite offers a perfect balance of sweetness and heat, leaving you wanting more.

Easy to Prepare

Preparation is a breeze! With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch of these wings in no time. Just wash and cut the cauliflower, mix the batter, and bake. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Vegetarian-Friendly

If you’re looking for vegetarian options, these wings are an excellent choice. Made from cauliflower and simple ingredients, they are a great way to please both meat-lovers and vegetarians at your table.

Customizable

The best part? You can customize your Baked Spicy Honey BBQ Cauliflower Wings to suit your taste preferences. Want it spicier? Add more hot sauce. Prefer a milder version? Just cut back on the spices. The possibilities are endless!

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a game day, a family dinner, or a casual get-together, these wings are perfect for any occasion. They’re fun to eat, easy to share, and guarantee smiles all around.

What You Need for Baked Spicy Honey BBQ Cauliflower Wings

Baked Spicy Honey BBQ Cauliflower Wings

To create the perfect Baked Spicy Honey BBQ Cauliflower Wings, it’s essential to select the right ingredients that come together beautifully. Each element contributes to the overall flavor and texture, making this dish a standout. The key players include fresh cauliflower, a blend of spices, and a rich honey BBQ sauce that binds the flavors together.

  • 1 head of cauliflower, approx. 4 cups of florets – This is the star of the dish! It’s nutritious and provides a great texture.
  • 1 cup milk, for vegan: use water or almond or soy milk – The liquid helps create a batter that will coat the cauliflower.
  • ¾ cup all-purpose flour, can sub gluten-free rice flour – This gives structure and a crispy crust to the wings.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder – A must-have for flavor enhancement.
  • 1 tsp cumin – Adds a warm, earthy tone to the dish.
  • 1 tsp of paprika – For a touch of sweetness and color.
  • ¼ tsp salt – Balances all the flavors.
  • ¼ tsp ground pepper – Adds a hint of spice.
  • Honey BBQ Sauce – This is the magical ingredient that brings the wings to life.
  • ½ cup BBQ sauce – A rich base that pairs perfectly with honey.
  • 2-3 tablespoons honey – Adds sweetness that balances out the spices.
  • 1 tablespoon sriracha or hot sauce – For those who like it spicy!
  • 1 tablespoon butter, for vegan: use earth balance buttery spread or coconut oil – Provides richness to the sauce.

How to Make Baked Spicy Honey BBQ Cauliflower Wings

Baked Spicy Honey BBQ Cauliflower Wings

Making Baked Spicy Honey BBQ Cauliflower Wings is not just easy, it’s also a fun cooking experience. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying crispy, spicy wings in no time!

  1. Line baking sheet(s) with parchment paper or grease very well with oil. Preheat your oven to 400F. This step is crucial to ensure that the wings don’t stick and bake evenly.
  2. Wash and cut the cauliflower head into bite-sized pieces/florets. Make sure they are all roughly the same size for even cooking.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, milk, and spices for about 1 minute or until most of the lumps are gone. This batter should be thick enough to coat the cauliflower but not too runny.
  4. Dip the cauliflower pieces into the batter. You can do this one by one or in batches. Make sure to shake off the excess batter before placing them on the baking sheet.
  5. Lay the cauliflower in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. This is where the magic happens!
  6. While the cauliflower is baking, prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the bbq sauce, honey, sriracha, and butter. Simmer until warm and combined.
  7. Once the cauliflower is done baking, remove it from the oven and dip each piece into the honey BBQ sauce, ensuring it’s nicely coated. Place it back on the baking sheet.
  8. Return to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes. This final bake lets the sauce caramelize and adhere to the cauliflower.
  9. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch or blue cheese, and enjoy your delicious homemade Baked Spicy Honey BBQ Cauliflower Wings!

Things Worth Knowing

  • Ensure Even Coating: Make sure each piece of cauliflower is evenly coated in the batter to achieve the perfect crispiness.
  • Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cauliflower as it bakes; ovens vary, and you want them golden brown but not burnt.
  • Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to play around with different spices in the batter to find the flavor combination you love best.
  • Leftovers: Store any leftover Baked Spicy Honey BBQ Cauliflower Wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

Baked Spicy Honey BBQ Cauliflower Wings

If you’re looking to mix things up, there are plenty of ways to adapt the Baked Spicy Honey BBQ Cauliflower Wings. Here are some ideas:

  • Storage: To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last for 3 to 4 days.
  • Freezing: Yes, you can freeze the cooked wings. Just make sure they are completely cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
  • Pairing: These wings pair wonderfully with celery sticks and a creamy ranch dip.
  • Make It Vegan: Use plant-based ingredients for all components, like almond milk and vegan butter, to keep it fully vegan.
  • Spice Levels: Adjust the level of sriracha or hot sauce based on your preference for heat. You can also add cayenne for an extra kick.

What Goes Well With This Baked Spicy Honey BBQ Cauliflower Wings

When it comes to serving Baked Spicy Honey BBQ Cauliflower Wings, the options are endless! Here are some ideas:

  • Celery and Carrots: Serve alongside fresh celery and carrot sticks for a refreshing crunch.
  • Dipping Sauces: Pair with ranch, blue cheese, or a spicy dipping sauce for added flavor.
  • Game Day Snack: These wings are perfect for game day gatherings or movie nights with friends.
  • Quick Side Dish: They can also make a great side dish for lunch or dinner to accompany your favorite sandwich.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: They fit well in any social setting, whether it’s a casual get-together or a festive party.
  • Meal Prep: If you’re prepping meals for the week, these wings can be stored and reheated easily.

FAQ

Absolutely! To make Baked Spicy Honey BBQ Cauliflower Wings gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or rice flour. The other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so this recipe can easily accommodate those with gluten sensitivities. Just make sure to check the labels of your sauces to ensure they’re gluten-free as well. Enjoy your crispy, gluten-free wings!

To store leftovers of your Baked Spicy Honey BBQ Cauliflower Wings, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can last in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F to regain their crispiness. Avoid using the microwave, as it may make them soggy.

There are numerous dipping sauces that pair wonderfully with Baked Spicy Honey BBQ Cauliflower Wings. Some favorites include classic ranch dressing, creamy blue cheese, or a zesty garlic aioli. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a spicy yogurt sauce or even additional hot sauce could elevate the experience. Feel free to get creative and mix and match according to your taste preferences!

While fresh cauliflower is recommended for Baked Spicy Honey BBQ Cauliflower Wings, you can use frozen cauliflower florets if needed. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess moisture before proceeding with the recipe. Keep in mind that the texture may differ slightly compared to using fresh cauliflower, but they will still taste great!

Conclusion

The Baked Spicy Honey BBQ Cauliflower Wings are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, combining the health benefits of cauliflower with bold flavors that everyone loves. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s a fun and satisfying dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, who can resist a crispy, spicy, and sweet treat? You won’t regret making these delicious wings!

Baked Spicy Honey BBQ Cauliflower Wings

Baked Spicy Honey BBQ Cauliflower Wings

The ultimate comfort food, Baked Spicy Honey BBQ Cauliflower Wings are crispy, spicy, and sweet. Perfect for game nights or a healthy snack, these wings will satisfy your cravings and are easy to make tonight!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Appetizers
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

  • Frying Pan
  • Whisk
  • Oven
  • Saucepan
  • Baking Sheet

Ingredients
  

  • 1 head Cauliflower approx. 4 cups of florets
  • 1 cup Milk for vegan: use water or almond or soy milk
  • ¾ cup All-purpose flour can sub gluten-free rice flour
  • 1 tsp Garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Cumin
  • 1 tsp Paprika
  • ¼ tsp Salt
  • ¼ tsp Ground pepper
  • ½ cup BBQ sauce
  • 2-3 tablespoons Honey
  • 1 tablespoon Sriracha or hot sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Butter for vegan: use earth balance buttery spread or coconut oil

Instructions
 

  • Line baking sheet(s) with parchment paper or grease very well with oil. Preheat your oven to 400F.
  • Wash and cut cauliflower head into bite-sized pieces/florets.
  • In a large bowl, whisk the flour, milk, and spices for 1 minute or until most of the lumps are gone. Dip the cauliflower in the batter. You can do this one by one or in batches. shake off excess batter before placing cauliflower on the baking sheet.
  • Lay the cauliflower single layer on the baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes until golden brown.
  • While the cauliflower is baking, In a small saucepan over low heat, simmer the bbq sauce, honey, sriracha, and butter.
  • Remove the cauliflower from the oven and dip into the bbq sauce and place bake on the baking sheet.
  • Bake in the oven for another 10 minutes. Serve with ranch, blue cheese, or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
  • Tip 2: You can freeze cooked wings. Ensure they are completely cooled before freezing.
  • Tip 3: Pair with celery sticks and ranch for a delicious snack.
  • Tip 4: Use plant-based ingredients for a vegan option.
  • Tip 5: Adjust the heat by adding more or less sriracha.
Keyword BBQ Cauliflower Recipe, Cauliflower Wings, Healthy Appetizers, Vegan Snack Ideas

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