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Ultimate Crispy Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Bites (Game Day Ready)

A close-up of crispy, bright orange buffalo cauliflower florets piled on a white plate, with a side of dipping sauce visible.
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Make the best crispy buffalo cauliflower bites using your air fryer. This recipe delivers a satisfying crunch and spicy flavor, making it a perfect healthy appetizer for game day or parties.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 cup cold water (or unsweetened plant milk for vegan option)
  • 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (use your favorite brand)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (or vegan butter/oil for vegan option)
  • For Serving: Celery sticks, carrot sticks, vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cauliflower: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
  2. Create the batter: Slowly whisk in the cold water until you have a thin, pancake-like batter. You want it thin enough to coat but thick enough to cling.
  3. Coat the florets: Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, letting excess drip off. You are aiming for a light coating, not a heavy tempura style.
  4. Air Fryer Prep: Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
  5. Cook in batches: Place the battered cauliflower in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd the basket; work in batches to achieve maximum crispiness.
  6. Air Fry: Cook for 10 minutes. Shake the basket well. Continue cooking for another 5 to 8 minutes, or until the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy.
  7. Make the sauce: While the cauliflower cooks, whisk together the buffalo sauce and melted butter (or vegan alternative) in a large bowl.
  8. Toss: Transfer the hot, crispy cauliflower bites immediately into the sauce bowl. Gently toss until every piece is evenly coated.
  9. Serve immediately: Arrange the buffalo cauliflower bites on a platter with celery, carrots, and your preferred dipping sauce. This is the perfect meatless Super Bowl food.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness, you can lightly spray the battered florets with cooking spray before the first air fry cycle.
  • If you prefer baked buffalo cauliflower, arrange the coated florets on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  • Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce based on your preference for spice level.

Nutrition

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