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Air Fryer Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Bites for Ultimate Crunch

A pile of crispy, glazed buffalo cauliflower bites served on a white plate, glistening under bright light.
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Make the best homemade Buffalo Cauliflower Bites using your air fryer. These bites are crispy, spicy, and a satisfying, healthy meatless wings alternative perfect for game day snacks or appetizers.

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)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • Optional: Blue cheese or ranch dressing for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cauliflower: Wash and thoroughly dry the cauliflower florets. This step is key for crispiness.
  2. Make the batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Pour in the milk and mix until you have a thin, pancake-like batter.
  3. Coat the cauliflower: Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, letting excess drip off, and place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd the basket; work in batches if necessary.
  4. Air fry: Cook the cauliflower at 380°F (195°C) for 10 minutes. Shake the basket well, then continue cooking for another 5 to 8 minutes, until the coating is golden brown and crispy.
  5. Make the buffalo sauce: While the cauliflower cooks, combine the hot sauce, melted butter, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk until the butter is fully incorporated and the sauce is warm. Do not boil.
  6. Toss and serve: 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.
  7. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce for a truly satisfying vegetarian appetizer.

Notes

  • For extra crunch, you can lightly spray the battered cauliflower with cooking spray before the first air fry cycle.
  • If you prefer a milder spice level, reduce the amount of hot sauce in the buffalo sauce mixture.
  • To make this a complete meal, serve these spicy cauliflower appetizer bites over a bed of chopped lettuce.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://gourmetgaze.com/buffalo-cauliflower-air-fryer-bites/