Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Bites That Taste Just Like Wings
If you’re looking for a spicy, crunchy, totally snack-worthy alternative to chicken wings, these Buffalo Cauliflower Bites are about to become your new go-to. They’re everything you want in a game day appetizer or meatless weeknight treat: flavorful, crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, and totally addictive.
This recipe is super simple, oven-baked (not fried), and made with pantry staples. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re feeding vegetarians or meat lovers. Let’s get to it.
| Serving Size: 4 | Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 25–30 minutes | Total Time: 35–40 minutes |
Ingredients
For the cauliflower:
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the buffalo sauce:
- 1/2 cup buffalo hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep and preheat
Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Make the batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Step 3: Coat the cauliflower
Toss the cauliflower florets in the batter until fully coated. Let any excess drip off, then spread the florets in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake round one
Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through so both sides get golden.
Step 5: Add buffalo sauce
While the cauliflower bakes, mix together the buffalo sauce, melted butter, and honey if using.
Remove the cauliflower from the oven, brush or toss with the buffalo sauce, then return to the oven for another 5–10 minutes until slightly crisp and sticky.
Step 6: Serve hot
Serve immediately with ranch or blue cheese dressing and a side of celery sticks if you’re feeling fancy.
Tips for the Best Buffalo Cauliflower
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Give your florets space so they crisp up instead of steaming.
- Use parchment paper. It keeps the coating from sticking and makes cleanup way easier.
- Customize the spice. Want it extra hot? Add a pinch of cayenne to the batter or use extra-hot buffalo sauce.
- Serve fresh. These are best eaten right out of the oven when they’re at peak crispiness.
Easy Variations
Make them gluten-free: Swap in a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour.
Air fryer method: Cook at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway through. Then toss in sauce and air fry 5 more minutes.
BBQ version: Use BBQ sauce instead of buffalo sauce for a milder, smoky take.
Sweet and spicy: Mix hot sauce with a little honey and lime juice for a sweet heat combo.
FAQs
Can I make Buffalo Cauliflower Bites ahead of time?
They’re best fresh, but you can prep the batter and cut the cauliflower in advance. Reheat leftovers in the oven or air fryer for better texture.
Can I freeze them?
Not ideal. The texture gets mushy when reheated from frozen.
What dipping sauce goes best?
Classic ranch or blue cheese is the move, but you could also serve with a simple garlic aioli or vegan ranch if you want to keep it dairy-free.
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Fresh works best for crisp texture, but you can use frozen in a pinch. Just thaw and pat it dry thoroughly before battering.
Related Post: Cheesy Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for a game day snack, a meatless Monday main, or just a fun way to eat your veggies, these Buffalo Cauliflower Bites check all the boxes. They’re spicy, satisfying, and totally addictive—without needing to break out the deep fryer.
Trust me, even the die-hard wing fans in your house will be asking for seconds.