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Crispy Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Bites

A pile of crispy, bright orange buffalo cauliflower bites coated in spicy sauce, served on a white plate.

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You can make truly crispy, spicy buffalo cauliflower bites in your air fryer. This recipe offers a satisfying crunch and bold flavor, serving as a great vegetarian alternative to traditional wings for game day or any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened plant milk (or regular milk)
  • 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (use your favorite brand)
  • 2 tablespoons melted vegan butter or regular butter
  • Cooking spray

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cauliflower: In a large bowl, combine the cauliflower florets with cooking spray. Toss to lightly coat.
  2. Set up the batter: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Pour in the milk and mix until you have a smooth, thick batter.
  3. Coat the florets: Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, allowing excess to drip off, and place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding.
  4. Air fry for crispiness: Lightly spray the coated florets with cooking spray. Air fry at 380°F (195°C) for 15 to 20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
  5. Make the sauce: While the cauliflower cooks, whisk together the buffalo sauce and melted butter in a small bowl.
  6. Toss and serve: Transfer the hot, crispy cauliflower bites to a clean bowl. Pour the buffalo sauce mixture over the bites and toss gently until every piece is coated. Serve immediately with ranch or blue cheese dip for the best flavor.

Notes

  • For an extra crunchy texture, you can double-coat the cauliflower. After the first 10 minutes of air frying, remove the basket, dip the partially cooked florets back into the batter, and return them to the air fryer to finish cooking.
  • If you want a vegan buffalo wings substitute, use plant milk and vegan butter in the sauce.
  • This recipe works well for a healthy buffalo bites option when you skip the butter in the sauce.

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