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Crispy Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Bites for Game Day

A close-up of crispy, saucy buffalo cauliflower bites piled on a white plate with celery sticks.

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Make the ultimate game day snack with these crispy Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Bites. They offer a satisfying crunch and bold, spicy flavor, serving as a fantastic plant-based alternative to traditional wings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium head 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 cold water
  • 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot Original Cayenne Pepper Sauce (or your favorite buffalo sauce)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (or vegan butter substitute)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, omit for strict vegan)
  • Ranch or blue cheese dressing, for serving
  • Celery and carrot sticks, for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cauliflower: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Pour in the cold water and whisk until you have a thin, smooth batter. Toss the cauliflower florets in the batter until they are fully coated.
  2. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the battered cauliflower in a single layer in the basket, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
  3. Air fry the cauliflower for 15 to 18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the bites are golden brown and crispy.
  4. While the cauliflower cooks, prepare the buffalo sauce: In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the hot sauce, melted butter, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce (if using). Whisk until the butter is fully incorporated and the sauce is smooth. Keep warm.
  5. Transfer the hot, crispy cauliflower bites to a large bowl. Pour the buffalo sauce over the bites and gently toss until every piece is evenly coated.
  6. Serve the buffalo cauliflower bites immediately with your choice of ranch or blue cheese dressing and fresh vegetable sticks.

Notes

  • For extra crunch, lightly spray the battered cauliflower with cooking spray before placing it in the air fryer basket.
  • If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of hot sauce or add a teaspoon of maple syrup to the sauce mixture.
  • This recipe works well for baked buffalo cauliflower too; bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.

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