Go Back

Honey Garlic Cauliflower Wings

Honey garlic cauliflower wings are crispy breaded cauliflower coated in a sticky honey garlic sauce.
Air fry at 400°F for about 12 minutes, flipping halfway through, or bake for 20 minutes.
Serve hot with creamy spicy ranch, sesame seeds, and green onions.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Course Appetizer / Snack
Cuisine American-inspired

Ingredients
  

For the cauliflower wings

  • 1 head cauliflower cut into florets
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups whole wheat panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Sesame seeds optional
  • Green onions optional

For the Honey Garlic Sauce

  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 3 tablespoons lower-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Spicy Ranch Dressing

  • 3/4 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons adobo sauce from chipotle peppers
  • 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried dill
  • 1 teaspoon fresh or dried chives
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons water plus more as needed

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the spicy ranch. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, adobo sauce, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, dill, chives, parsley, and salt. Add water a little at a time until the dressing reaches your preferred consistency. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
  • Prepare the cauliflower. Wash and dry the cauliflower thoroughly, then cut it into bite-sized florets. Try to keep the florets relatively similar in size so they cook evenly.
  • Prepare the coating. Place the eggs in one bowl and whisk until smooth. In a second bowl, combine the whole wheat panko, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  • Coat the cauliflower. Dip each floret into the egg mixture, making sure it is completely coated. Transfer it to the seasoned panko and gently press the breadcrumbs onto the surface. Shake off any excess coating.
  • Air fry. Arrange the coated cauliflower in a single layer in the air fryer basket or on the rack. Avoid overcrowding so hot air can circulate. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for about 6 minutes, flip the florets, and cook for another 6 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Work in batches if necessary.
  • Bake instead. For oven-baked Honey Garlic Cauliflower Wings, arrange the breaded florets on a lightly oiled baking sheet without overcrowding. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  • Make the sauce. While the cauliflower cooks, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, ginger, and cornstarch in a saucepan.
  • Bring the sauce to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until it becomes glossy and thickened.
  • Combine everything. Add the crispy cauliflower to a large bowl and pour the warm honey garlic sauce over the top. Gently toss until every piece is coated.
  • Garnish and serve. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve immediately with the chilled spicy ranch dressing.

Notes

For the crispiest result, serve the cauliflower shortly after tossing it with the sauce. If you prefer a lighter coating, use less sauce and serve the remainder on the side.
These wings are delicious with extra green onions, sesame seeds, sliced cucumber, or a simple side salad. They can also be served over rice for a more filling vegetarian meal.