Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 15 mins
Rest Time 2 mins
Total Time 27 mins
Cooking Method:
Cuisine:
Courses: ,
Difficulty: Beginner
Cooking Temp: 200  C
Servings: 4
Best Season: All Seasons
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:
  • 1 medium head cauliflower (cut into bite-sized florets)
  • 0.75 cup all-purpose flour
  • 0.5 cup plant-based milk (unsweetened almond or oat milk)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.5 tsp onion powder
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
  • 0.5 tsp salt
    • For the Buffalo Sauce Coating:
  • 0.5 cup hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot)
  • 2 tbsp vegan butter (melted)
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup (optional, for balance)
    • Optional Garnishes:
  • 1 tbsp chopped parsley (fresh)
  • Vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing (for dipping)
  • Celery and carrot sticks (for serving)
Instructions
    Prepare the Cauliflower
  1. 1
    Wash and thoroughly dry the cauliflower. Cut it into evenly sized, bite-sized florets to ensure even cooking. Set aside.
    2. Make the Batter
  2. 2
    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.
    3. Coat the Cauliflower
  3. 3
    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.
    4. Air Fry – Round One
  4. 4
    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.
    5. Make the Buffalo Sauce
  5. 5
    While the cauliflower is cooking, combine hot sauce, melted vegan butter, and maple syrup in a small bowl. Stir until well mixed.
    6. Toss in Buffalo Sauce
  6. 6
    Once the cauliflower is done, transfer it to a large bowl and toss with the buffalo sauce until well coated.
    7. Air Fry – Round Two
  7. 7
    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.
    8. Serve
  8. 8
    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.

Keywords: quick, healthy, vegan, spicy, air fryer
Read it online: https://petitepanini.com/recipe/air-fryer-buffalo-cauliflower-recipe/