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Air Fryer Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Bites

A pile of bright orange, saucy buffalo cauliflower bites served on a white plate.

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Make flavorful, crispy buffalo cauliflower bites in your air fryer. This recipe provides a satisfying, spicy snack that works well for game day or as a vegetarian appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium head 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 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 cup cold water
  • 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (your preferred brand)
  • 2 tablespoons melted vegan butter or regular butter
  • For Serving: Vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing, celery sticks

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cauliflower: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Whisk together.
  2. Slowly whisk in the cold water until you form a thin batter. Do not overmix; a few lumps are fine.
  3. Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, allowing excess to drip off. You want a light coating.
  4. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
  5. Place the battered cauliflower in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Work in batches to avoid crowding.
  6. Air fry for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy.
  7. While the cauliflower cooks, prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the buffalo sauce and melted butter.
  8. Transfer the hot, crispy cauliflower to a large bowl. Pour the buffalo sauce mixture over the cauliflower and toss gently until all pieces are coated.
  9. Return the coated cauliflower to the air fryer basket and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes at 380°F (195°C) to set the sauce.
  10. Serve immediately with your choice of dipping sauce and celery sticks.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness, you can lightly spray the battered florets with cooking spray before the first air fry cycle.
  • Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce based on your preference for spice level.
  • This recipe makes a great plant based wings alternative for game day snack ideas.

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