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Crispy Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Bites (Oven Option Included)

A pile of crispy, bright orange buffalo cauliflower bites served on a white plate near a window.
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Make crispy, spicy buffalo cauliflower bites that serve as a satisfying, healthy alternative to traditional wings. You can use an air fryer for maximum crunch or the oven for a simple roast.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (for a keto/low-carb option, substitute with 1/2 cup almond flour and 1/2 cup crushed pork rinds or omit for no breading)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 cup water (or unsweetened almond milk for keto/low-carb)
  • 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (use a low-carb/keto brand if needed)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (or vegan butter)
  • For Serving: Ranch or blue cheese dip, celery sticks

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cauliflower: Wash and dry the cauliflower florets thoroughly. Moisture prevents crispiness.
  2. Make the batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Slowly whisk in the water (or milk/keto substitute) 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 on a plate.
  4. Cook in the Air Fryer: 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, working in batches if necessary. Air fry for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
  5. Cook in the Oven (Alternative): Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the battered florets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy.
  6. Prepare the sauce: While the cauliflower cooks, whisk together the buffalo sauce and melted butter in a large bowl.
  7. Toss and serve: Once the cauliflower is crispy, immediately transfer the hot florets to the bowl with the buffalo sauce. Toss gently to coat evenly. Serve your buffalo cauliflower bites right away with ranch or blue cheese dip.

Notes

  • For the crispiest results, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket or baking sheet. Cook in smaller batches.
  • If you skip the batter entirely (for a low-carb approach), toss the dry cauliflower with 1 tablespoon of oil, salt, and pepper, then air fry until tender and slightly browned before tossing in the sauce.
  • This recipe works well for game day snacks or as a healthy buffalo wing alternative.

Nutrition

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