Buffalo Cauliflower Bites are crispy, spicy snacks that make veggies exciting. These little bites are coated in tangy buffalo sauce and baked until they are golden and yummy!
They are perfect for parties or movie nights. Who knew eating veggies could be this much fun? I love serving them with ranch dressing for dipping—it’s a match made in heaven!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: A fresh head of cauliflower is essential. If you can’t find a large one, any smaller head will work, but remember to adjust cooking time for smaller florets.
Flour: I typically use all-purpose flour, but if you’re going gluten-free, chickpea flour is a great substitute. It’s high in protein and adds a nice flavor!
Buffalo Sauce: Frank’s RedHot is a classic, but feel free to use any brand you like. For a milder version, you can mix it with a bit of ketchup or BBQ sauce.
Vegan Butter: I love using vegan butter for a dairy-free option. If dairy isn’t an issue, regular butter works just as well. Both give a nice richness!
How Do You Get the Cauliflower Super Crispy?
Getting that sought-after crispiness is all about moisture management and cooking temperature. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure to preheat your oven thoroughly to 450°F (230°C) for that extra crunch.
- Ensure the cauliflower florets are well-coated in batter but not dripping wet. Shake off excess batter before placing them on the baking sheet.
- Flip the florets halfway through the first bake to promote even cooking and browning.
- After tossing them in the buffalo sauce, return them to the oven to help seal the sauce in and crisp up the bites further.
Following these tips will help you achieve perfectly crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Bites every time! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cauliflower Bites:
- 1 large head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for gluten-free)
- 3/4 cup water
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Buffalo Coating:
- 3/4 cup buffalo hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 2 tbsp melted vegan butter or regular butter
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish
For Serving:
- Celery sticks
- Carrot sticks
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, and you’ll need about 35-40 minutes for baking. So, in total, you’re looking at around 50 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick snack or party dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Oven and Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C). To prevent sticking and make cleanup easier, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This will help the cauliflower bites crisp up nicely!
2. Making the Batter:
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, water, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth. You want a batter that clings to your cauliflower but isn’t too thick.
3. Coating the Cauliflower:
Take each piece of cauliflower floret and dip it into the batter, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Allow any excess batter to drip off. Place the coated florets on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer without overcrowding. Repeat until all florets are bathed in batter!
4. Baking the Cauliflower:
Pop the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes. Be sure to flip the florets halfway through to ensure they become evenly golden and crispy. They should look deliciously browned when ready!
5. Tossing with Buffalo Sauce:
While your cauliflower is baking, grab a small bowl and mix together the buffalo sauce and melted butter. Once the cauliflower is ready, take it out of the oven and gently toss the florets in the buffalo sauce mixture until they are nicely coated.
6. Final Baking:
Return the buffalo-coated cauliflower to the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. This step is crucial because it’ll give your bites that extra crunch and heat!
7. Garnishing and Serving:
Once they’re out of the oven, sprinkle the crispy cauliflower with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve your Buffalo Cauliflower Bites hot with celery and carrot sticks on the side, along with your favorite ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping!
Enjoy your spicy, crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Bites—your taste buds are in for a treat!
Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower for This Recipe?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw and drain frozen cauliflower first to avoid excess moisture. You can pop them in the microwave or let them sit in the fridge overnight. Pat them dry with paper towels before coating them in batter!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Use chickpea flour for a gluten-free option, and substitute regular butter with vegan butter. The buffalo sauce is usually vegan, but always check the label to be sure!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to crisp them back up.
Is There a Way to Make These Less Spicy?
If you want a milder version, you can mix the buffalo sauce with a bit of ranch dressing or ketchup before tossing the cauliflower. This will help tone down the heat while still adding flavor!
