Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Bites

This air fryer buffalo cauliflower brings the perfect combination of spicy, crispy goodness without the guilt of deep frying. I created this recipe when looking for a healthier alternative to buffalo wings, and it's become an instant hit at every gathering.

I first made this recipe when hosting friends for a football game and was amazed at how quickly the entire batch disappeared. Even my meat loving buddies couldn't stop reaching for more of these spicy cauliflower bites.

Ingredients

• 1 medium head of cauliflower look for firm white heads with no brown spots for the freshest flavor
• All purpose flour creates the perfect crispy coating when air fried
• Water helps create the ideal batter consistency
• Garlic powder adds savory depth that complements the buffalo sauce
• Onion powder provides subtle sweetness and umami flavor
• Smoked paprika brings a delicious smoky undertone that elevates the entire dish
• Salt enhances all the flavors
• Black pepper adds a mild spicy kick
• Buffalo sauce choose a high quality brand or make your own for the best flavor
• Unsalted butter adds richness and helps the sauce cling to the cauliflower
• Cooking spray ensures nothing sticks to the air fryer basket

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Cauliflower

Cut your cauliflower into evenly sized florets about 1 to 1.5 inches each. Uniformity is crucial here as it ensures all pieces will cook at the same rate. I find that slightly larger florets hold up better to the sauce while still getting crispy.

Make the Batter

Combine the flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Whisk until completely smooth with no lumps remaining. The consistency should be similar to pancake batter thick enough to cling to the cauliflower but not so thick that it forms heavy clumps.

Coat the Cauliflower

Add your cauliflower florets to the batter and gently toss until each piece is thoroughly coated. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to remove each piece, allowing excess batter to drip back into the bowl. This prevents pooling in the air fryer which can lead to sogginess.

Air Fry the Cauliflower

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for optimal crispiness. Lightly coat the basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the battered cauliflower in a single layer with small spaces between pieces to allow air circulation. Cook for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. The cauliflower should be golden brown with visible crispy edges when done.

Prepare the Buffalo Sauce

While the cauliflower cooks, combine the buffalo sauce with melted butter in a bowl. The butter enriches the sauce and helps it adhere better to the cauliflower. For extra flavor, add a tiny splash of honey to balance the heat or a dash of garlic powder for extra savoriness.

Toss with Buffalo Sauce

Transfer the hot crispy cauliflower to a large bowl and pour the buffalo sauce mixture over it. Gently toss until every piece is evenly coated with the vibrant orange sauce. Work quickly while the cauliflower is hot as this helps the sauce stick better.

Serve Immediately

Arrange your buffalo cauliflower on a serving plate while still hot. The contrast of the crispy exterior with the spicy sauce is best enjoyed fresh from the air fryer.

Bookmark

The smoked paprika is my secret ingredient in this recipe. I discovered its transformative power when I accidentally used it instead of regular paprika one day, and now I would never go back. The subtle smokiness adds complexity that makes everyone ask for my recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

If serving these at a party, you can prepare the battered cauliflower up to 2 hours ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Air fry just before guests arrive, then toss with the sauce right before serving. The contrast between hot cauliflower and cool dipping sauce is part of what makes this appetizer so appealing.

Adjusting The Spice Level

Not everyone enjoys the same level of heat, which makes this recipe wonderfully customizable. For a milder version, mix equal parts buffalo sauce and BBQ sauce. For extra spicy buffalo cauliflower, add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the batter and a few dashes of hot sauce to the buffalo mixture. I always serve different heat levels when entertaining so everyone finds their perfect match.

Perfect Dipping Sauces

While ranch and blue cheese are traditional accompaniments, this buffalo cauliflower pairs beautifully with other dips too. Try a cooling cucumber yogurt sauce, honey mustard, or even a garlicky tahini dip for something different. I love setting up a dipping station with several options so guests can experiment with different flavor combinations.

Storage And Reheating

Buffalo cauliflower is best enjoyed immediately, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the cauliflower back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3 to 5 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as this will make the cauliflower soggy.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make buffalo cauliflower ahead of time?

For best results, buffalo cauliflower should be served immediately after cooking as it tends to soften when stored. However, you can prepare the batter and cut the cauliflower in advance. If you need to reheat leftovers, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to restore some crispiness.

→ How do I keep my buffalo cauliflower crispy?

To ensure maximum crispiness, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, as this creates steam. Cook in batches if necessary. Also, make sure to shake off excess batter before air frying, and toss the cauliflower in buffalo sauce just before serving rather than letting them sit in the sauce.

→ Can I adjust the spice level of this dish?

Absolutely! Control the heat by selecting a milder buffalo sauce or mixing the hot sauce with more butter to mellow the spiciness. You can also serve extra sauce on the side so individuals can adjust to their preference. For a less spicy version, try mixing the buffalo sauce with BBQ sauce or honey.

→ What can I serve with buffalo cauliflower?

Buffalo cauliflower pairs wonderfully with cooling dips like ranch or blue cheese dressing. For a complete spread, serve with celery and carrot sticks, a side salad, or turn it into a meal by serving in tacos, wraps, or on a grain bowl. It also makes a great addition to a vegetarian appetizer platter.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

The standard recipe contains all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, rice flour, or chickpea flour. Just ensure your buffalo sauce is also gluten-free, as some commercial brands may contain wheat-derived ingredients.

→ Can I make this in the oven instead of an air fryer?

Yes! To bake in the oven, place the battered cauliflower on a parchment-lined baking sheet and cook at 425°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The oven version may not get quite as crispy as the air fryer version, but it will still be delicious.