Cherry-Chipotle Cauliflower Wings (Printable Version)

Crispy cauliflower wings in a smoky cherry-chipotle glaze, perfect for sharing as a lively appetizer or snack.

# What You'll Need:

→ Cauliflower

01 - 1 large head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets

→ Batter

02 - 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
03 - 3/4 cup unsweetened plant-based milk
04 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
06 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
07 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
08 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Cherry-Chipotle BBQ Glaze

09 - 1 cup cherry preserves (or cherry jam)
10 - 1/2 cup tomato ketchup
11 - 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
12 - 1–2 canned chipotle peppers in adobo, finely chopped (to taste)
13 - 2 tablespoons maple syrup
14 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
15 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
16 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
17 - 1/4 teaspoon salt

→ Garnish (optional)

18 - Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
19 - Lime wedges

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, plant-based milk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to create a smooth batter.
03 - Add the cauliflower florets to the batter and toss to coat evenly. Let excess batter drip off, then arrange the florets on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
04 - Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until lightly golden and starting to crisp.
05 - Meanwhile, combine the cherry preserves, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, chopped chipotle peppers, maple syrup, olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently. Allow to cook for 5–7 minutes until thick and glossy. Taste and adjust chipotle for desired heat.
06 - Remove the cauliflower from the oven. Brush or toss the florets generously with the cherry-chipotle BBQ glaze.
07 - Return the coated cauliflower to the oven and bake for an additional 12–15 minutes, or until sticky and caramelized at the edges.
08 - Garnish with chopped herbs and serve immediately with lime wedges.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Ready in under one hour so perfect for gatherings
  • Naturally vegan and easy to make gluten-free with a simple swap
  • The glaze uses real fruit preserves for rich depth and a sticky finish
  • You can adjust the spice level to your liking
  • Kid approved and party favorite every time I serve these they disappear fast especially with extra lime on the side
02 -
  • High in fiber and plant protein makes a nourishing snack
  • Great for meal prep and reheating leftovers
  • Gluten-free version is simple with just one ingredient change
  • Kids love the sticky finger eating experience
  • Lower in calories than traditional wings but with all the big flavor
03 -
  • Switch to convection mode for ultra-crisp edges on your wings
  • Taste your glaze before adding more chipotle so heat does not surprise guests
  • Letting the cauliflower cool two minutes after baking gives crisper bites

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