Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is not only a healthier take on the classic buffalo wings, but it’s also easy to make and bursting with bold flavors. The cauliflower bites are coated in a flavorful buffalo sauce that packs a punch of heat without being overwhelming. The crispy texture from the oven-baked cauliflower adds a satisfying crunch with each bite. Plus, this dish is entirely vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by using dairy-free ingredients. Serve it with a side of creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing, and you’ve got yourself a perfect snack or appetizer that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, almond milk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to create the batter.
Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, making sure it is evenly coated. Place the coated florets on the prepared baking sheet.
Drizzle the olive oil over the cauliflower bites.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cauliflower is crispy and golden brown.
While the cauliflower is baking, heat the buffalo sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.
Once the cauliflower bites are done, remove them from the oven and toss them in the buffalo sauce until fully coated.
Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Prep time: 10-15 minutes
- Cook time: 20-25 minutes

Variations

Vegan Version: Use plant-based milk and swap out regular ranch or blue cheese dressing for a vegan version.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the batter for extra heat.
Sweet and Spicy: Mix some honey or maple syrup into the buffalo sauce for a sweet and spicy twist.
Air Fryer Version: You can also make these Buffalo Cauliflower Bites in an air fryer for a quicker and potentially even crispier result.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover Buffalo Cauliflower Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the cauliflower bites in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes until crispy again. You can also use an air fryer to reheat them for an even crispier texture.

FAQs

Can I make Buffalo Cauliflower Bites in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the cauliflower florets and batter in advance. Keep the florets and batter separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake and coat them in the buffalo sauce.

Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Fresh cauliflower works best, but frozen cauliflower can be used as well. Just make sure to thaw and pat it dry before coating with the batter.

Are these Buffalo Cauliflower Bites spicy?

The heat level of these bites can be adjusted based on the buffalo sauce you use. For a milder flavor, opt for a less spicy buffalo sauce or add less sauce to the cauliflower.

Can I use other sauces for these bites?

Yes! While buffalo sauce is a classic choice, you can experiment with barbecue sauce, teriyaki sauce, or even a sweet chili sauce for different flavors.

Can I make these Buffalo Cauliflower Bites gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these bites gluten-free.

Can I air fry these Buffalo Cauliflower Bites?

Yes, air frying is a great option for a quicker and crispier result. Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for about 15-18 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Do I have to coat the cauliflower in flour batter?

Coating the cauliflower helps to create a crispy texture, but if you’re looking for a lighter version, you can skip the batter and simply toss the florets in buffalo sauce before baking.

Can I use store-bought buffalo sauce?

Absolutely! You can use store-bought buffalo sauce for convenience, or make your own by mixing hot sauce, butter, and a little garlic powder.

How can I make these Buffalo Cauliflower Bites spicier?

Add a bit of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the batter or the buffalo sauce for an extra kick.

Can these Buffalo Cauliflower Bites be served cold?

While they’re best enjoyed warm and crispy, these bites can still be eaten cold, making them great for meal prep or taking to a picnic.

Conclusion

Buffalo Cauliflower Bites are a deliciously spicy, crispy, and healthier alternative to traditional buffalo wings. Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian appetizer or just want to try something new, these bites are sure to be a hit. With customizable variations and easy storage options, they’re perfect for meal prepping or serving at your next gathering. Don’t forget to pair them with your favorite dipping sauce for the ultimate flavor experience!