Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packing a punch of tangy spice – these baked buffalo cauliflower bites are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The magic lies in the double-coating technique, which creates a satisfying crunch without the need for deep-frying. Baking instead of frying also ensures a healthier (but equally delicious!) experience.
This recipe works so well because the neutral flavor of the cauliflower allows the buffalo sauce to truly shine. The initial coating of seasoned flour provides a blank canvas, while the baking process caramelizes the edges, adding depth of flavor. Perfect as a game-day snack, a flavorful appetizer for a party, or even a light weeknight meal served with a side salad.
Why you’ll love this Crispy Baked Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
- They deliver all the classic buffalo wing flavor without the meat.
- This is a healthier alternative to traditional fried buffalo wings.
- The recipe is surprisingly simple and quick to make, ready in under 40 minutes.
- These crispy baked buffalo cauliflower bites are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or light meal.
- They are easily customizable to your preferred spice level.
- Clean up is a breeze thanks to the baking method.
Ingredients & Substitutions
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or other plant-based milk). You can also use regular milk.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (ensure no prohibited ingredients)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (or olive oil for vegan option)
- Optional garnishes: chopped green onions, blue cheese dressing (vegetarian alternative)
- Optional serving suggestion: celery sticks, carrot sticks
Buffalo cauliflower bites makes every moment feel lush. For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure the buffalo wing sauce is also gluten-free. For a vegan option, ensure to substitute the butter with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative.
How to make Crispy Baked Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. This ensures even distribution of the spices.
Step 3: Prepare the Wet Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond milk and apple cider vinegar. The apple cider vinegar helps to activate the leavening agents in the flour, resulting in a crispier coating.
Step 4: Coat the Cauliflower
Dip each cauliflower floret into the almond milk mixture, then dredge in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Place the coated florets on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to shake off any excess flour to prevent a gummy texture.
Chef’s Tip: For the best coating, dip the cauliflower florets into the almond milk, then immediately dredge them into the flour mixture. This helps the flour adhere better.
Step 5: Bake the Cauliflower
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and the coating is golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through. Flipping ensures even browning on all sides.
Step 6: Prepare the Buffalo Sauce
While the cauliflower is baking, whisk together the buffalo wing sauce and melted butter (or olive oil) in a large bowl. The butter (or oil) adds richness and helps the sauce cling to the cauliflower.
Step 7: Toss and Serve
Once the cauliflower is baked, transfer it to the bowl with the buffalo sauce and toss to coat evenly.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions and a side of blue cheese dressing (vegetarian alternative), celery sticks, and carrot sticks, if desired. Serving with a creamy dip helps cool down the heat from the buffalo sauce.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. This will steam the cauliflower instead of allowing it to crisp up.
- For extra crispy cauliflower, broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Use a good quality buffalo wing sauce for the best flavor.
- Ensure the cauliflower florets are roughly the same size so they cook evenly.
Serving Suggestions
These buffalo cauliflower bites are delicious served as an appetizer with celery and carrot sticks and a side of blue cheese dressing (vegetarian alternative). They also make a great addition to a salad or can be served as a light meal with a side of quinoa or rice.
For a fun appetizer spread, consider serving these alongside cranberry jalapeno dip for contrasting flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results to regain crispness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze these buffalo cauliflower bites?
Freezing is not recommended as it can affect the texture of the cauliflower and the coating. It is best to enjoy them fresh.
Is this recipe spicy?
The spice level depends on the buffalo wing sauce you use and whether you add cayenne pepper. You can adjust the amount of cayenne pepper or use a milder buffalo sauce to control the heat.
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Fresh cauliflower is recommended for the best texture. Frozen cauliflower tends to be more watery, which can prevent the coating from crisping up properly. If you must use frozen cauliflower, thaw it completely and pat it dry before coating.
These Crispy Baked Buffalo Cauliflower Bites are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional buffalo wings, perfect for satisfying your craving for something tangy, spicy, and crunchy. The simple baking method ensures they are easy to make and clean up, making them a great option for any occasion. Give them a try and let us know what you think in the comments below!
Crispy Baked Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
These crispy baked buffalo cauliflower bites are a game-changer! Tender cauliflower florets are coated in a flavorful batter, baked to golden perfection, and then tossed in a tangy and spicy buffalo sauce. They’re incredibly delicious, surprisingly easy to make, and perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal. The baking method ensures they’re healthier than traditional fried versions, while still delivering that satisfying crunch and bold buffalo flavor we all crave. Get ready to ditch the wings – these cauliflower bites are about to become your new favorite!
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or other plant-based milk)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (ensure no prohibited ingredients)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (or olive oil for vegan option)
- Optional garnishes: chopped green onions, blue cheese dressing (vegetarian alternative)
- Optional serving suggestion: celery sticks, carrot sticks
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond milk and apple cider vinegar.
- Dip each cauliflower floret into the almond milk mixture, then dredge in the flour mixture, ensuring it's fully coated. Place the coated florets on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and the coating is golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
- While the cauliflower is baking, whisk together the buffalo wing sauce and melted butter (or olive oil) in a large bowl.
- Once the cauliflower is baked, transfer it to the bowl with the buffalo sauce and toss to coat evenly.
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions and a side of blue cheese dressing (vegetarian alternative), celery sticks, and carrot sticks, if desired.
Notes
For extra crispy cauliflower, broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results. For a milder flavor, use a less spicy buffalo sauce or reduce the amount. If you don’t have almond milk, you can use any other plant-based milk or regular milk.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 10mg