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Ultra Crispy Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Bites (Oven Option Included)

Close-up of crispy, saucy buffalo cauliflower florets piled high on a white plate with extra sauce pooling below.
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Make ultra-crispy buffalo cauliflower bites using an air fryer or oven. This recipe provides a crunchy, spicy vegetarian appetizer perfect for game day or a satisfying snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (for vegan/GF, use gluten-free blend or rice flour)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 cup plant-based milk or regular milk (for vegan, use plant-based milk)
  • 1/2 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (or vegan butter/oil for vegan)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • For serving: Vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cauliflower: Wash and thoroughly dry the cauliflower florets. Moisture prevents crisping.
  2. Make the batter: In one bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In a second bowl, whisk together the milk and 1 tablespoon of the melted butter/oil.
  3. Coat the florets: Dip each floret first into the milk mixture, letting excess drip off, then dredge thoroughly in the dry flour mixture. Press the coating onto the cauliflower lightly.
  4. Cook the cauliflower (Air Fryer Method): Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C). Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray. Arrange the coated florets in a single layer, working in batches. Air fry for 15 to 20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
  5. Cook the cauliflower (Oven Method): Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with oil. Arrange florets in a single layer. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy.
  6. Make the buffalo sauce: While the cauliflower cooks, whisk together the hot sauce, remaining melted butter/oil, and apple cider vinegar in a medium bowl.
  7. Toss and serve: Once the cauliflower is crispy, transfer the hot florets immediately to the bowl with the buffalo sauce. Toss gently to coat evenly. Serve immediately with your choice of dipping sauce.

Notes

  • For extra crunch, you can double-coat the cauliflower: after the first dip in flour, dip it back into the milk mixture and then back into the flour.
  • To make this recipe gluten-free, use a certified gluten-free flour blend or rice flour in the batter.
  • If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of hot sauce or add a teaspoon of maple syrup to the sauce.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://fooddexterity.com/buffalo-cauliflower-crispy-air-fryer-bites/