Baked to a golden finish, these spicy buffalo cauliflower bites deliver the perfect balance of heat, crunch, and tenderness. This plant-based twist on classic buffalo wings is a standout vegan appetizer or snack that’s as satisfying as it is wholesome.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is ideal for anyone seeking bold flavor without the guilt. Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Bites are a lighter, meat-free alternative to chicken wings, made with simple ingredients and baked instead of fried. They’re perfect for game days, parties, or just a spicy side dish to liven up your meal rotation. With a crisp exterior and a tender bite, they’re guaranteed to win over even the most devout wing lovers.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the buffalo sauce:
- 1/3 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
- 2 tablespoons melted vegan butter or regular butter
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup (optional, for balance)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until you have a smooth batter.
- Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and toss them in the batter until well coated.
- Spread the coated cauliflower pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even crisping.
- While the cauliflower bakes, combine the hot sauce, melted butter, and maple syrup (if using) in a small bowl and whisk until smooth.
- After the initial baking, remove the cauliflower from the oven and toss the florets gently in the buffalo sauce mixture.
- Return the cauliflower to the oven and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the edges are browned and crisp.
- Serve hot with your preferred dipping sauce, such as ranch or blue cheese.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves approximately 4 people as an appetizer or side.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 35–40 minutes
Total time: 45–50 minutes
Variations
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour for a celiac-friendly version.
- Air fryer method: Cook at 400°F (200°C) in an air fryer for 15–20 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- Extra crispy: Toss the battered cauliflower in panko breadcrumbs before baking.
- Sweeter sauce: Add more maple syrup or a touch of honey (if not vegan) for a sweeter buffalo glaze.
- Cheesy finish: Sprinkle with nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan before the final bake for a savory boost.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the cauliflower soggy. The air fryer is also a great reheating option for maintaining texture.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep and bake the cauliflower without the buffalo sauce up to a day in advance. Add the sauce and rebake before serving.
Are buffalo cauliflower bites spicy?
They do have a moderate kick. You can adjust the heat by using a milder or hotter sauce to suit your preference.
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Fresh cauliflower yields the best texture, but if using frozen, thaw and dry it thoroughly before coating.
What dipping sauces go well with these bites?
Classic ranch or blue cheese dressings are excellent. Vegan versions are widely available or easy to make at home.
How do I keep the coating from getting soggy?
Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet and ensure the cauliflower is evenly spaced. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
Can I fry these instead of baking?
Yes, though it adds more oil. Deep fry in hot oil (350°F/175°C) until golden, then toss in sauce.
Is there a low-carb option?
Use almond flour or coconut flour in place of all-purpose flour to reduce carbs.
What can I serve with buffalo cauliflower bites?
Serve them with celery sticks, carrot sticks, and your favorite dip as a party platter or side dish.
Can I make them without butter?
Yes, substitute the butter in the sauce with olive oil or omit it altogether for a lighter version.
Can I store the sauce separately?
Yes, store the buffalo sauce in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a week and add it just before serving or reheating.
Conclusion
Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Bites are a flavorful, satisfying alternative to traditional wings. Easy to make, naturally vegan, and endlessly adaptable, they’re perfect for sharing at gatherings or indulging in guilt-free comfort food. Whether you’re a longtime plant-based eater or just looking to try something new, this recipe delivers bold taste and crisp texture in every bite.
Print
Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Tender cauliflower florets baked in a seasoned batter until crisp, then tossed in tangy buffalo sauce. These spicy vegan bites are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or guilt-free game day treat.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/3 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
- 2 tablespoons melted vegan butter or regular butter
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup (optional, for balance)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Add cauliflower florets to the batter and toss to coat evenly.
- Place battered cauliflower on the baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Meanwhile, whisk together buffalo sauce, melted butter, and maple syrup.
- After the initial bake, remove cauliflower and toss gently in the buffalo sauce.
- Return to the oven and bake for another 15–20 minutes until edges are crisp and browned.
- Serve hot with a side of ranch or blue cheese dip.
Notes
- Use gluten-free flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Adjust the hot sauce or maple syrup to balance the heat and sweetness to your liking.
- Great served with celery sticks or carrot sticks.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet for best crispiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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