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Crispy Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Bites for Game Day

A close-up of crispy, sauce-coated buffalo cauliflower bites piled high on a white plate.
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Make the ultimate game day appetizer with these crispy air fryer buffalo cauliflower bites. They offer a spicy, tangy flavor and satisfying crunch, serving as a healthy, plant-based alternative to traditional wings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium head 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 (or regular milk)
  • 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot Original Cayenne Pepper Sauce (or preferred hot sauce)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (or vegan butter alternative)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • For Serving: Vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing, celery sticks

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cauliflower: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  2. Dip the florets: Pour the plant milk into a separate shallow bowl. Dip each cauliflower floret first into the dry flour mixture, shaking off excess, then dip into the milk, and finally coat again thoroughly in the dry mixture. This double-coating helps achieve maximum crispiness.
  3. Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C). Arrange the coated florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Air fry for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden brown and crunchy.
  4. Make the buffalo sauce: While the cauliflower cooks, whisk together the hot sauce, melted butter, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat until just combined and warmed through. Do not boil.
  5. Toss: Transfer the hot, crispy cauliflower bites to a large bowl. Pour the buffalo sauce over the cauliflower and gently toss until every piece is evenly coated.
  6. Serve immediately: Arrange the buffalo cauliflower bites on a platter. Serve with your favorite creamy dip and fresh celery sticks for your Super Bowl snacks or party.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness, let the coated florets rest on a wire rack for 10 minutes before air frying.
  • If you prefer baked buffalo cauliflower, bake on a parchment-lined sheet at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • This recipe makes a fantastic plant based wings alternative for any gathering.

Nutrition

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