If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to traditional buffalo wings without compromising flavor or crunch, then this Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe is about to become your new favorite. This dish takes the humble cauliflower and transforms it into golden, spicy, and crispy bites that even non-vegetarians will crave.
Whether you’re a long-time plant-based eater or just trying to eat more vegetables, this air fryer recipe is an excellent addition to your recipe rotation. It’s easy to make, customizable, and ready in under 30 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe
- Healthy Alternative: Lower in calories and fat than traditional chicken wings.
- Vegan & Dairy-Free: Easily made 100% plant-based with simple swaps.
- Crispy Texture: The air fryer gives the cauliflower that coveted crunch without deep frying.
- Flavor Explosion: Each bite delivers a satisfying combination of spicy, tangy, and buttery buffalo flavor.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Game nights, party platters, snacks, or a light meal.
Ingredients Breakdown
For the Batter:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower (cut into bite-sized florets)
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (gluten-free alternative works)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened plant milk (almond, oat, or soy)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Buffalo Sauce:
- 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot or similar hot sauce
- 2 tbsp vegan butter (melted)
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
Optional Toppings & Dips:
- Fresh parsley (chopped)
- Vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing
- Celery and carrot sticks for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower
Start by washing and thoroughly drying the cauliflower. Cut into evenly sized florets to ensure even cooking. Uniform sizes also help with consistent texture—no soggy pieces!
Step 2: Create the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, plant milk, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. The batter should be smooth and slightly thick, enough to coat the cauliflower without dripping excessively.
Step 3: Coat the Cauliflower
Add the cauliflower florets to the batter and toss well until every piece is fully coated. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to lift the pieces out, allowing any excess batter to drip off.
Step 4: First Round of Air Frying
Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (392°F) for 2-3 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking.
Place the battered cauliflower in a single layer in the basket. Avoid overcrowding; cook in batches if needed. Air fry for 12 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even crisping.
Step 5: Prepare the Buffalo Sauce
While the cauliflower cooks, melt the vegan butter and mix it with hot sauce and maple syrup in a bowl. Stir until fully combined. Taste and adjust the heat or sweetness to your liking.
Step 6: Sauce the Cauliflower
Transfer the air-fried cauliflower to a large bowl. Pour the buffalo sauce over and toss until all pieces are well coated.
Step 7: Second Round of Air Frying
Return the sauced cauliflower to the air fryer for another 3-4 minutes. This helps the sauce adhere better and adds an extra crispy texture.
Step 8: Serve Immediately
Let the cauliflower cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley and pair with vegan ranch, celery, and carrot sticks for the full buffalo experience.
Expert Tips for Success
- Avoid Sogginess: Dry your cauliflower completely before battering. Excess moisture affects crispness.
- Even Cooking: Don’t overcrowd the air fryer. Single layers are key to getting crispy results.
- Spice Level: Adjust the hot sauce to your preferred heat level. Mix with BBQ sauce or sriracha for different flavors.
- Add Crunch: Mix 1–2 tablespoons of cornstarch into the batter for an even crispier bite.
- Reheating: Leftovers? Reheat in the air fryer at 180°C (356°F) for 4–5 minutes.
Variations You Can Try
- BBQ Cauliflower: Replace buffalo sauce with your favorite BBQ sauce.
- Asian-Inspired: Use a blend of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and chili sauce instead of buffalo sauce.
- Sweet & Spicy: Add honey or agave with a dash of chili flakes to the buffalo sauce for balance.
- Breaded Version: Dredge battered florets in panko before air frying for extra crunch.
Serving Suggestions
These air fryer buffalo cauliflower bites are incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas:
- Appetizer Platter: Serve alongside cucumber slices, guacamole, and pita chips.
- Game Day Snack: Make a big batch with extra dipping sauces.
- Taco Filling: Add to soft tortillas with slaw and avocado.
- Bowl Meal: Pair with brown rice, roasted chickpeas, and a drizzle of tahini.
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Not ideal—cauliflower tends to get soggy when reheated from frozen.
- Reheat: Use the air fryer at 180°C to restore crispness.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe is proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring. With a bold flavor and satisfying crunch, these cauliflower bites can stand toe-to-toe with any deep-fried snack. Plus, it’s incredibly customizable and simple enough for weeknight cravings or last-minute party prep.
Whether you’re sharing with friends or treating yourself, once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become a regular in your rotation. Don’t forget to pair it with your favorite dips and sides!
Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe
Description
Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, these Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Bites are the perfect spicy, healthy alternative to traditional wings. Made with just a handful of pantry staples, this easy vegan appetizer is ideal for game days, parties, or guilt-free snacking.
Ingredients
For the Cauliflower Batter:
For the Buffalo Sauce Coating:
Optional Garnishes:
Instructions
Prepare the Cauliflower
- Wash and thoroughly dry the cauliflower. Cut it into evenly sized, bite-sized florets to ensure even cooking. Set aside.
Make the Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, plant-based milk, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and lump-free.
Coat the Cauliflower
- Toss the cauliflower florets into the batter and mix until each piece is fully coated. Shake off any excess batter before placing them into the air fryer.
Air Fry – Round One
- Preheat the air fryer to 200°C for 2–3 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with oil. Arrange the battered florets in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches). Air fry for 12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and slightly crispy.
Make the Buffalo Sauce
- While the cauliflower is cooking, combine hot sauce, melted vegan butter, and maple syrup in a small bowl. Stir until well mixed.
Toss in Buffalo Sauce
- Once the cauliflower is done, transfer it to a large bowl and toss with the buffalo sauce until well coated.
Air Fry – Round Two
- Return the coated cauliflower to the air fryer and cook for another 3 minutes at 200°C. This helps the sauce set and makes the cauliflower extra crispy.
Serve
- Let the cauliflower cool for 2 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley and serve with celery, carrots, and your favorite vegan dip.
Note
Crispier Bites: For an extra crunch, add 1–2 tbsp of cornstarch to the batter.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for best texture.
Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Not vegan? You can use regular milk and butter if preferred.
Less spicy: Use a milder hot sauce or mix buffalo sauce with a bit of ranch.
