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Ultimate Crunch Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Bites

A close-up of several crispy, bright orange buffalo cauliflower bites piled on a white plate, catching bright sunlight.
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Make crispy, spicy buffalo cauliflower bites in your air fryer. This recipe delivers the ultimate crunch, making it a perfect vegetarian alternative to wings for game day or any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head of 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 cup unsweetened plant milk (for vegan option) or regular milk
  • 1/2 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted, or vegan butter substitute
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • For serving: Ranch or blue cheese dressing, celery sticks

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cauliflower: Wash and dry the cauliflower florets thoroughly. Moisture prevents crispiness.
  2. Create the batter: In one bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In a second bowl, whisk together the milk and a splash of hot sauce (about 1 tablespoon) to create a thin mixture.
  3. Coat the cauliflower: Dip each floret first into the wet mixture, letting excess drip off, then dredge thoroughly in the dry flour mixture. Press the flour onto the cauliflower to help it stick.
  4. Air fry for crispiness: Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray. Arrange the coated cauliflower in a single layer, working in batches. Cook for 15 to 18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
  5. Make the buffalo sauce: While the cauliflower cooks, combine the remaining hot sauce, melted butter, and apple cider vinegar in a medium bowl. Whisk until smooth.
  6. Toss and serve: Transfer the hot, crispy cauliflower bites to the bowl with the buffalo sauce. Toss gently until every piece is coated. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce and celery sticks.

Notes

  • For the best results and maximum crunch, do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in necessary batches.
  • If you prefer a baked buffalo cauliflower recipe, bake on a parchment-lined sheet at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • To make this a vegan buffalo cauliflower snack, use plant milk and vegan butter in the sauce.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://littlekitchendiary.com/crispy-buffalo-cauliflower-air-fryer-recipe/