Crispy Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Bites (Easy Recipe)

Chef Amber

Crispy cauliflower florets coated in spicy buffalo sauce, air fried to perfection. A healthier vegetarian alternative to buffalo wings.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 15

Total Time 25

Servings: 4

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: American

Calories: 145

Cauliflower: 1 large head cut into bite-sized florets

All-Purpose Flour: ¾ cup for coating base

Cornstarch: ¼ cup for extra crispiness

Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon for savory depth

Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon for aromatic flavor

Paprika: ½ teaspoon for color and mild spice

Salt: ½ teaspoon for seasoning

Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon freshly ground

Water or Milk: ¾ cup to create batter consistency

Buffalo Sauce: ½ cup (Frank's RedHot recommended)

Melted Butter: 2 tablespoons to mix with buffalo sauce

Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing: For serving

Step 1: Cut the cauliflower into uniform bite-sized florets, about 1.5 inches each, so they cook evenly. Rinse and pat them completely dry with paper towels, as excess moisture will prevent the batter from adhering properly.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the water or milk gradually while whisking until you have a smooth batter with the consistency of pancake batter, not too thick or too thin.
Step 3: Add the cauliflower florets to the batter and toss gently with a spoon or your hands until every piece is completely coated. Let any excess batter drip off, but make sure each floret has a good coating all around.
Step 4: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes. Arrange the battered cauliflower in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure pieces don't touch. Work in batches if necessary. Lightly spray the tops with cooking oil. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: While the cauliflower cooks, mix the buffalo sauce with melted butter in a large bowl. Once the cauliflower is crispy, transfer it immediately to the buffalo sauce bowl and toss gently to coat. Return the sauced cauliflower to the air fryer for 3-5 more minutes to set the sauce and add extra crispiness. Serve hot with ranch or blue cheese dressing and celery sticks.

Nutrition Facts (per serving): Carbs: 18g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 6g