Save Pin The first time I made these, my skeptical brother-in-law ate half the platter before asking wait, what is this again? The cauliflower stays surprisingly crunchy while soaking up that spicy, tangy sauce we all love.
I started bringing these to game nights instead of traditional wings, and now people actually request them. Something about popping them in your mouth makes them disappear faster than you think possible.
Ingredients
- 1 large head cauliflower: Cut into uniform florets so they cook evenly and get that crunch in every bite
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Creates the coating that gets golden and holds onto all that sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds depth that balances the heat
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Gives the batter a subtle smokiness and beautiful color
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: A gentle warmth that complements the buffalo sauce
- 1 cup milk: Dairy or plant based works, just make sure it is unsweetened
- ½ cup buffalo hot sauce: Frank is classic, but any brand you love works
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Richness that tames the heat perfectly
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup: Optional, but I always add it for that sweet and spicy balance
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare:
- Get your air fryer heating to 400°F so you are ready to go as soon as the cauliflower is battered
- Make the batter:
- Whisk the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl, then stir in the milk until completely smooth
- Coat the cauliflower:
- Dip each floret into the batter, let the excess drip off, and place them carefully in a single layer in your air fryer basket
- Get them crispy:
- Air fry for 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through so every side gets golden and crisp
- Whisk the sauce:
- While they cook, mix the hot sauce, melted butter, and honey in a large bowl until smooth
- Toss and serve:
- Drop the hot cauliflower straight into the sauce bowl, toss gently until coated, and serve immediately
Save Pin These became my go to when friends come over for casual dinners and drinks. I love watching people reach for one and then somehow end up standing by the platter the whole night.
Making Them Your Own
I have tried adding different spices to the batter, like onion powder or a pinch of cayenne if I want extra heat. Sometimes I use a gluten free flour blend for friends, and it works just as well.
Oven Option
No air fryer? Bake them at 425°F for 25 to 30 minutes on a parchment lined baking sheet, flipping halfway. They still get crispy, just with a slightly different texture that is equally delicious.
Serving Ideas
I always put out celery and carrot sticks because that cool crunch balances the heat perfectly. A good ranch or blue cheese dip makes the whole experience complete.
- Make extra sauce because people will want to drizzle more
- Keep them warm in a low oven if making a big batch
- Have napkins ready because buffalo sauce always wins
Save Pin These are proof that vegetarian food can be just as crave worthy as the classics. Once you try them, you will understand why nobody misses the wings.
Recipe FAQs
- → What is the best way to achieve crispy cauliflower bites?
Coating cauliflower florets in a seasoned batter and air frying at 400°F ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.
- → Can I make these bites vegan?
Yes, use plant-based milk and vegan butter in the sauce and batter for a fully vegan version without sacrificing flavor.
- → How can I increase the heat level?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter or increase the buffalo hot sauce quantity for a spicier bite.
- → What serving suggestions work well with these bites?
Serve with crunchy celery and carrot sticks and a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing to balance the heat.
- → Is air frying necessary for this dish?
Air frying provides the crispiest texture, but baking at 425°F for 25–30 minutes with a flip halfway works as a good alternative.