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Buffalo Cauliflower Bites

Yields4 ServingsPrep Time15 minsCook Time25 minsTotal Time40 mins

Buffalo Cauliflower Bites are a delicious, spicy, and crispy appetizer perfect as a vegetarian alternative to buffalo wings. These bite-sized cauliflower florets are coated in a flavorful batter, baked or air-fried until crispy, and tossed in a bold buffalo sauce. Served with ranch or blue cheese dressing, they make for a crowd-pleasing snack!

Buffalo Cauliflower Bites

For the Cauliflower Bites
 1 medium head of cauliflower (cut into bite-sized florets)
 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
 1 tsp garlic powder
 1 tsp onion powder
 ½ tsp smoked paprika
 ½ tsp salt
 ¼ tsp black pepper
 ¾ cup milk (or plant-based milk)
 ½ cup water
 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness, optional)
 Vegetable oil spray (for baking)
For the Buffalo Sauce
 ½ cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
 2 tbsp unsalted butter (or vegan butter)
 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for a slight sweetness)
 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (or soy sauce for a vegan version)
 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
For Serving
 Ranch or blue cheese dressing
 Celery and carrot sticks
Prepare the Batter
1

  • Preheat the Oven or Air Fryer:
    • Oven: Preheat to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
    • Air Fryer: Preheat to 375°F (190°C).
  • Make the Batter:
    • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
    • Add milk and water, whisking until smooth.
  • Coat the Cauliflower:
    • Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, allowing excess to drip off.
    • If using panko breadcrumbs, roll the coated cauliflower in the breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.
Bake or Air Fry
2

  • Bake the Cauliflower:
    • Arrange the coated cauliflower on the baking sheet without overcrowding.
    • Lightly spray with vegetable oil for crispiness.
    • Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
  • Air Fry the Cauliflower:
    • Arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
    • Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway, until crispy and golden brown.
Make the Buffalo Sauce
3

Heat the Sauce:

  • In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter.
  • Stir in the hot sauce, honey or maple syrup (if using), Worcestershire sauce, and apple cider vinegar.
  • Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring until well combined.
Toss and Serve
4

  1. Coat the Cauliflower:
    • Transfer the crispy cauliflower to a large bowl.
    • Pour the warm buffalo sauce over the cauliflower and toss gently to coat evenly.
  2. Serve Immediately:
    • Arrange on a serving platter with ranch or blue cheese dressing.
    • Garnish with celery and carrot sticks for a classic touch.
Serving Suggestions
5

  • Serve as an appetizer for game nights, parties, or a healthy snack.
  • Pair with a cold beer or refreshing lemonade for contrast.
Pro Tips
6

  • Extra Crispy Texture: Double-coat with panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
  • Mild Version: Use a mix of buffalo sauce and melted butter for a less spicy version.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and panko.

Nutrition Facts

4 servings

Serving size