Make crispy, spicy buffalo cauliflower bites in your air fryer. This recipe is vegan, vegetarian, and perfect for game day parties.
Author:Ahazzam
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:20 min
Total Time:35 min
Yield:4 servings
Category:Appetizer
Method:Air Frying
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegan
Ingredients
Scale
1 large head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup cold water or unsweetened plant milk
1/2 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
1/4 cup melted vegan butter or oil
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon maple syrup (optional)
Instructions
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Slowly whisk in the cold water or plant milk until you have a smooth, thin batter. Do not overmix.
Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, letting excess drip off.
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
Place the battered florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, working in batches. Do not overcrowd.
Air fry for 10 minutes. Flip the florets and air fry for another 5 to 8 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
While the cauliflower cooks, prepare the sauce: Whisk together the hot sauce, melted vegan butter or oil, apple cider vinegar, and maple syrup (if using) in a small bowl.
Transfer the hot, crispy cauliflower bites to a large bowl. Pour the buffalo sauce over the bites and toss gently to coat completely.
Serve immediately with celery sticks and vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing.
Notes
For extra crispiness, you can lightly spray the battered florets with oil before the first air fry cycle.
If you prefer a thicker coating, you can double-dip the florets after the first 10 minutes of cooking.
Use your favorite brand of hot sauce for the desired heat level.