Go Back
In the world of culinary creativity, cauliflower has emerged as a star ingredient, especially among those seeking delicious plant-based alternatives to traditional comfort foods. One standout recipe that has captured the hearts and palates of many is the spicy air fryer buffalo cauliflower bites. These flavorful morsels offer the perfect balance of heat and crunch, making them a fantastic substitute for buffalo wings. As more people embrace healthier eating habits, the demand for innovative recipes that satisfy cravings without compromising on taste has surged.

Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe

Discover the mouthwatering delight of Spicy Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Bites, a healthy twist on a classic favorite! These crunchy, flavor-packed bites are perfect for satisfying your cravings without compromising your wellness goals. Made with nutrient-rich cauliflower and air-fried for a guilt-free experience, this recipe is ideal for appetizers or snacks. It's easy to prepare and sure to impress family and friends with bold flavors that enjoyably embrace plant-based eating. Indulge in this delicious alternative and enjoy every spicy, crispy bite!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets

1 cup all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for a gluten-free option)

1 cup water

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)

2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for added crispiness)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Celery and carrot sticks (for serving)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Cauliflower: Start by washing and cutting the cauliflower head into bite-sized florets, ensuring they are of even size for uniform cooking.

    Make the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper until smooth. The batter should be thick enough to coat the cauliflower but not too heavy.

      Coat the Cauliflower: Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, allowing the excess to drip off. Place the coated florets on a tray lined with parchment paper while you finish coating the rest.

        Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.

          Air Fry the Cauliflower: Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with olive oil. Arrange the cauliflower florets in a single layer in the basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. You may need to do this in batches. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy.

            Coat with Buffalo Sauce: Once air-fried, transfer the cauliflower to a large bowl. Drizzle with buffalo sauce and toss until well coated. For an extra kick, you can add additional cayenne pepper into the buffalo sauce.

              Final Air Fry: Return the sauced cauliflower back to the air fryer and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes at the same temperature to set the sauce and enhance crispiness.

                Serve: Remove the cauliflower from the air fryer and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve warm with celery and carrot sticks alongside extra buffalo sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings