Buffalo Cauliflower Bites are spicy, crispy pieces of cauliflower that pack a flavorful punch. They’re perfect as a snack or a fun appetizer at parties!
I love how these bites are healthier than traditional wings but still have that amazing buffalo sauce kick. Pair them with some ranch dressing for extra yumminess! 🥦🔥
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: The star of the show! Choose a fresh, firm head with tight florets. If you can’t find cauliflower, broccolini or even Brussels sprouts can be fun alternatives.
Flour: All-purpose flour is used for crispiness, but gluten-free flour works well too. I’ve had great success using chickpea flour for extra protein!
Buffalo Sauce: Frank’s RedHot is a favorite for its flavor but feel free to use any other brand. You can also make a milder version by mixing hot sauce with some ketchup or barbecue sauce.
Butter: Regular butter adds richness, but vegan butter or olive oil can work just as well if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. You could also skip it entirely if you want to keep it lighter.
How Do I Ensure My Buffalo Cauliflower Bites are Crispy?
Getting that perfect crisp is key! Make sure to coat the cauliflower evenly and not overcrowd the baking sheet. Giving each piece space allows hot air to circulate and helps achieve that crunchy texture.
- Preheat your oven properly—it should be hot when you put the cauliflower in.
- Flipping half-way is crucial; it ensures even browning on both sides.
- For an extra crunch, consider broiling them for the last couple of minutes!
Enjoy making these Buffalo Cauliflower Bites, they’re sure to be a hit!
Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cauliflower Bites:
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (can substitute with gluten-free flour)
- 1 cup water or milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Buffalo Sauce:
- 1 cup buffalo hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or vegan butter
For Serving:
- 2 stalks celery, cut into sticks
- Chopped green onions (for garnish)
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing (for dipping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 30-40 minutes of cooking time. You’ll spend a bit of time mixing the batter, baking the cauliflower, and then tossing them in that spicy sauce. All in all, it’s about 1 hour to get these tasty bites ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing to Bake:
Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C). While it’s heating up, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2. Making the Batter:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, water (or milk), garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix it well until it’s smooth. The goal is to have a batter that is thick enough to coat the cauliflower but not too thick—add a little more water if needed!
3. Coating the Cauliflower:
Now comes the fun part! Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, making sure it’s fully coated. Give them a little shake to remove any excess batter, then place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they aren’t crowded—this helps them crisp up!
4. Baking the Bites:
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 20 minutes. Halfway through, flip the cauliflower florets to ensure they cook evenly. They should be getting nice and crispy!
5. Mixing the Buffalo Sauce:
While the cauliflower is baking, grab a large bowl and combine the buffalo hot sauce with the melted butter. Mix them together until well blended. This is where all the flavor comes from!
6. Tossing in Sauce:
Once the cauliflower is done baking, take it out of the oven and immediately toss the hot florets in the buffalo sauce mixture. Ensure each piece is coated with that spicy goodness!
7. Final Baking:
Return the coated cauliflower to the baking sheet and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and slightly browned. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
8. Serving Up Your Bites:
Once they’re out of the oven, garnish your Buffalo Cauliflower Bites with chopped green onions. Serve them hot with celery sticks and your favorite ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. Enjoy every spicy, crunchy bite!
Now you’re all set to enjoy these crisp, spicy Buffalo Cauliflower Bites! They’re perfect for snacking, watching the big game, or serving at a party. Happy cooking! 🥦🔥
Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower florets! Just make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before using, as excess moisture can affect the crispiness of the final product. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any extra water.
How Can I Make These Bites Spicier?
If you love heat, you can easily kick up the spice level! Add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the buffalo sauce mixture. You can also use a hotter brand of hot sauce for more intense flavor.
Can I Make Buffalo Cauliflower Bites Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter and coat the cauliflower ahead of time. Store them in the fridge for up to a day, and then bake when you’re ready to serve. Just keep in mind that the coating may not be as crispy if they sit for too long.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Buffalo Cauliflower Bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which will help restore some of their crunch!