Name: Sticky Honey Garlic Cauliflower Wings Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 head cauliflower (cut into florets); 2 eggs; 1 1/2 cups whole wheat panko breadcrumbs; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp pepper; Sesame seeds (optional); Green onions (optional); 1/3 cup honey; 3 Tbsp lower sodium soy sauce; 1 Tbsp rice vinegar; 4 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tsp fresh grated ginger; 1 Tbsp cornstarch; 3/4 cup Greek yogurt; 1 1/2 Tbsp adobo sauce from chipotle peppers; 1/2 Tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp dill (dried); 1 tsp chives (fresh or dried); 1 tsp parsley (dried); 1/4 tsp salt; 2 to 3 Tbsp water (plus more as needed to thin)

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 36 reviews

If you are craving a flavorful, crispy snack that feels indulgent but is actually packed with wholesome veggies, then this Sticky Honey Garlic Cauliflower Wings Recipe is exactly what you need. These golden-baked or air-fried cauliflower florets are coated in a crunchy, seasoned breadcrumb crust and then drenched in a luscious, sticky honey garlic sauce that clings to every bite. The balance of sweet, savory, and garlicky notes makes this dish impossible to resist, perfect for game days, casual parties, or family dinners where everyone wants something delicious and a little different.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white cutting board with many pieces of raw cauliflower florets spread across it, each off-white with a slightly bumpy texture. To the left, there are two clear glass bowls on a white marbled surface; the closer bowl holds a beaten yellow egg mixture, smooth and slightly foamy, while the other bowl contains a crumbly, light brown mixture, likely breadcrumbs, scattered unevenly inside. Small green herb leaves are scattered lightly near the breadcrumb bowl. The scene is clean and bright with a focus on the simple, fresh ingredients. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are straightforward yet crucial to getting the perfect texture and bold flavors in your Sticky Honey Garlic Cauliflower Wings Recipe. Each element brings its own magic, from the crispy whole wheat panko breadcrumbs to the sweet and tangy honey garlic glaze that brings everything together.

Cauliflower florets: The star of the dish, offering a satisfying crunch and veggie goodness when cooked right.
Eggs: Help the breadcrumbs stick perfectly, creating that crave-worthy crispy coating.
Whole wheat panko breadcrumbs: Provide extra crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the seasoning.
Paprika and chili powder: Add smoky warmth and just the right hint of spice for depth.
Garlic powder and onion powder: Infuse savory, robust flavor that complements the fresh garlic in the sauce.
Salt and pepper: Essential for balancing all flavors and enhancing the natural taste of cauliflower.
Honey: Creates the signature sticky sweetness that defines this recipe’s sauce.
Soy sauce and rice vinegar: Bring umami and some tang, cutting through the honey’s sweetness perfectly.
Fresh garlic and ginger: Add vibrant, aromatic zest that brightens the sauce.
Cornstarch: Used to thicken the honey garlic glaze to just the right clingy consistency.
Sesame seeds and green onions: Optional but highly recommended toppings that add texture and freshness.
Greek yogurt and adobo sauce: For the spicy ranch dipping sauce, providing a creamy, smoky contrast to the wings.
Herbs like dill, chives, and parsley: Pack a herbaceous punch in the dip, rounding out the flavor experience.

How to Make Sticky Honey Garlic Cauliflower Wings Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Spicy Ranch Dipping Sauce

Begin by mixing the Greek yogurt, adobo sauce, lemon juice, dried dill, chives, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and a few tablespoons of water to reach your preferred consistency. Whisk it until smooth and set it aside in the fridge to let the flavors meld while you prepare the wings. This dip adds a cooling, zesty complement to the sweet and sticky wings that you will adore.

Step 2: Coat the Cauliflower Florets

First, whisk two eggs in a bowl to create the egg wash. In a separate dish, combine whole wheat panko breadcrumbs with paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Dip each cauliflower floret fully in the egg wash, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, making sure to cover every nook and cranny for maximum crunch. Shake off any surplus crumbs and arrange them carefully on an air fryer rack or baking sheet.

Step 3: Cook the Wings

If you’re using an air fryer, cook the cauliflower wings at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 6 minutes, then flip them over and cook for another 6 minutes until they achieve a beautiful golden crispiness. For oven baking, spread the coated florets out on an oiled baking sheet without overcrowding, then bake at 400 degrees for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway to ensure even browning.

Step 4: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce

While the cauliflower cooks, prepare the sauce by whisking together honey, low sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, fresh grated ginger, and cornstarch in a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil and then reduce to a simmer for 4 to 5 minutes until it thickens into a sticky, glossy glaze. This sauce is where the magic happens, lending irresistible flavor and a delightful sheen to the wings.

Step 5: Toss and Garnish

Once the wings are cooked and crispy, transfer them to a large bowl and toss immediately with the warm honey garlic sauce, ensuring every piece is fully coated. For the finishing touch, sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top to add crunch and a fresh burst of color. Serve the wings along with that creamy, spicy ranch dip and prepare for your new favorite snack!

How to Serve Sticky Honey Garlic Cauliflower Wings Recipe

A white rectangular tray lined with light brown parchment paper holds multiple pieces of crispy, dark brown, glazed cauliflower bites with a crunchy texture. The bites are scattered with white sesame seeds and bright green chopped scallions. To the upper right inside the tray, there is a small white round bowl filled with a creamy beige dipping sauce. The tray sits on a white marbled surface, with some chopped scallions and sesame seeds scattered around it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding sesame seeds and freshly chopped green onions elevates this dish visually and texturally. The sesame seeds bring a subtle nuttiness and tiny crunch, while green onions introduce a refreshing bite that balances the sticky sweetness of the sauce perfectly.

Side Dishes

Pair your cauliflower wings with crunchy veggie sticks like celery or carrot for additional texture and color contrast. A crisp side salad or some warm, fluffy rice can also complement these wings well, providing a filling and well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist at your next gathering, serve these wings on a platter lined with lettuce leaves to catch dripping sauce, or arrange them with an assortment of dipping sauces for people to mix and match. Wrapping a few wings in lettuce cups can also add an interactive, fresh element to the dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftover sticky honey garlic cauliflower wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the wings have cooled to room temperature before covering to avoid condensation that could make them soggy.

Freezing

If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a great option. Lay the cooked and sauced wings in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. This method helps maintain their shape and texture.

Reheating

To reheat, bake the wings in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the coating soggy and less enjoyable.

FAQs

Can I make Sticky Honey Garlic Cauliflower Wings Recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Simply swap the eggs for a plant-based binder such as flaxseed meal mixed with water, and use a vegan yogurt for the dipping sauce. The honey can be replaced with maple syrup or agave nectar to keep the sticky sweetness.

Is air frying better than baking for this recipe?

Both methods work great, but air frying tends to produce extra-crispy wings with less oil and faster cooking time. Baking is easier for larger batches and still results in delicious, crispy wings if you avoid overcrowding the pan.

Can I make the honey garlic sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce up to 2 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove before tossing with the wings to bring back its sticky, luscious texture.

What if I don’t have whole wheat panko breadcrumbs?

Regular panko breadcrumbs or even crushed cornflakes can be used as substitutes. Whole wheat panko adds a nuttier flavor and extra fiber, but other options will still give you that desirable crunch.

How spicy is the dipping sauce?

The spicy ranch has a gentle kick from the chipotle adobo sauce that complements the wings without overpowering them. You can easily add more or less adobo sauce to suit your preferred spice level.

Final Thoughts

Trust me when I say this Sticky Honey Garlic Cauliflower Wings Recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. It combines wholesome ingredients with bold, crave-worthy flavors in a way that’s both satisfying and surprisingly simple. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, appetizer, or part of a meal, these wings promise to wow your taste buds and delight your friends and family. Give this recipe a try soon — your taste buds will thank you!