These Buffalo Cauliflower Bites are spicy, tasty, and oh-so-addictive! Coated in a tangy buffalo sauce, they make the perfect snack or appetizer for any gathering.
Honestly, who knew veggies could be this fun? I like to serve them with a cool ranch dip—just to balance out the heat. Try not to eat them all at once; they’re that good! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: The star of this dish! Choose a firm head of cauliflower. If you’re looking for variety, try using broccoli instead for a different flavor and texture.
Flour: All-purpose flour works well, but you can swap it out for chickpea flour if you’re going gluten-free or want extra protein. It’ll give a slight nuttiness to the flavor.
Buffalo Sauce: You can buy pre-made buffalo sauce, or make your own with hot sauce and melted butter. If you prefer a milder option, try a barbecue sauce mixed with a little hot sauce.
Milk: Water is a simple option, but unsweetened plant-based milk like almond or oat can add a little creaminess. Just avoid sweetened versions, as they alter the flavor.
How Do I Get Crispy Bites Without Frying?
The key to crispy buffalo cauliflower bites lies in the baking technique. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure to preheat the oven to a high temperature (450°F/230°C). This helps to create a crispy outer layer.
- Coat the cauliflower evenly in the batter. Use enough so they are well-covered, but avoid excess so they don’t steam instead of bake.
- Space out the cauliflower on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can trap steam and lead to sogginess.
- Bake first until golden before tossing in the buffalo sauce. This ensures the coating firms up nicely.
Follow these tips, and you’ll be on your way to deliciously crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Bites!
Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (can substitute with chickpea flour for gluten-free)
- 3/4 cup water or unsweetened plant-based milk
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 3/4 cup buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil or melted vegan butter (for tossing with buffalo sauce)
For Serving:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Celery sticks and carrot sticks (for serving)
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing (for dipping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time, 30-40 minutes of cooking time, and it’s ready to serve! In total, you’ll need about 50 minutes to get these delicious bites on the table.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Get your oven warmed up to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This will help keep the cauliflower from sticking.
2. Prepare the Batter:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, water (or plant-based milk), garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until it’s smooth. The batter should be thick enough to coat the cauliflower but still easy to pour. If it’s too thick, just add a little more water to reach the right consistency.
3. Coat the Cauliflower:
Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl with the batter and toss them around until they are completely coated.
4. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
Spread the coated cauliflower pieces out in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Keep them spaced out so they cook evenly!
5. Bake Until Golden:
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the batter has set and starts to turn golden brown. Be sure to flip them halfway through to ensure even cooking.
6. Mix the Buffalo Sauce:
While the cauliflower is baking, take a separate large bowl and mix the buffalo sauce with olive oil or melted vegan butter. This will help the sauce to coat the cauliflower nicely.
7. Coat with the Buffalo Sauce:
Once the cauliflower is done baking, carefully transfer them into the bowl with the buffalo sauce. Toss the florets gently until they are fully coated with the sauce.
8. Bake Again for Crispiness:
Return the sauced cauliflower back to the baking sheet and bake for another 10-15 minutes. This will help the sauce set and give them a slightly crispy texture.
9. Garnish and Serve:
When you take them out of the oven, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro for a burst of color. Serve hot with celery sticks, carrot sticks, and a side of your favorite ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Enjoy your spicy, crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Bites! Perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying all by yourself! 😊
Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower, but it’s best to thaw and drain it well beforehand to avoid excess moisture. Spread it out on paper towels to absorb any extra water before coating and baking.
How Do I Make These Cauliflower Bites Less Spicy?
If you want to reduce the heat, try using a mild buffalo sauce or mix in some honey or maple syrup for sweetness. You can also serve them with extra ranch or yogurt-based dressing to cool them down.
Can I Store Leftovers?
Absolutely! Store any leftover cauliflower bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back into the oven for a few minutes to restore their crunch.
What Can I Serve with Buffalo Cauliflower Bites?
These bites are great on their own but pair well with celery and carrot sticks, as well as a cool ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. They also make a fantastic addition to a game day spread!
