Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower is a game-changing snack that brings the bold, spicy flavor of Buffalo wings to a plant-based option. These crispy bites are not only delicious but also provide a healthier alternative to traditional chicken wings. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a fun appetizer for your next gathering, this recipe delivers on all fronts. With a perfect crunch and a kick of heat, it’s hard to resist these tasty morsels!

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower

This vegan Buffalo cauliflower is not just a snack; it’s a culinary delight! Here are several reasons to love it:

It’s a guilt-free indulgence packed with flavor.
Perfect for game day, making it an ideal choice for parties.
Easy to customize with varying levels of spice, from mild to hot.
Healthier than conventional wings, making it a better option for your diet.
Simple and quick to prepare, taking less than 35 minutes.
It’s gluten-free when made with chickpea flour, accommodating various diets.
Can be served as a crunchy appetizer or a filling dinner option.

Ingredients for Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower

Gather these items:

1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
1 cup flour (all-purpose or chickpea flour for a gluten-free option)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup buffalo sauce
2 tablespoons vegan butter (or regular butter if you’re not vegan)
1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
Optional garnishes: Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro, Ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping

How to Make Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), or if you’re using an air fryer, preheat it to 375°F (190°C). If baking, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the almond milk and olive oil, and whisk until the batter is smooth.
Step 3: Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated. Place the coated cauliflower on the prepared baking sheet or air fryer basket in a single layer.
Step 4: Oven Method: Bake the cauliflower at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown and crispy. Air Fryer Method: Air fry the cauliflower at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Step 5: While the cauliflower is cooking, melt the vegan butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add the buffalo sauce and maple syrup (if using). Stir to combine and heat through, then remove from heat.
Step 6: Once the cauliflower is crispy, remove it from the oven or air fryer. Drizzle the buffalo sauce over the cauliflower and toss gently to coat. You can add more sauce depending on your spice preference.
Step 7: Serve your crispy buffalo cauliflower wings hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro. Enjoy with your favorite ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping.

Pro Tips for the Best Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower

Keep these in mind:

This recipe can be made gluten-free by using chickpea flour.
Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce based on your heat preference.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
For extra crunch, you can broil the cauliflower for a few minutes after baking.

Best Ways to Serve Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower

Here are a few serving suggestions:

Pair them with a healthy buffalo cauliflower appetizer plate, alongside celery sticks and carrots.
Serve as a main dish with a side of quinoa or rice for a complete meal.
Offer them as Cauliflower buffalo wings for game day to wow your guests!

How to Store and Reheat Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower

Store leftover crispy vegan buffalo cauliflower snack in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This will help maintain their crunchiness.

Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower

What is Buffalo cauliflower?

Buffalo cauliflower is a plant-based alternative to traditional buffalo wings, featuring cauliflower florets tossed in spicy buffalo sauce for a delicious, crunchy snack.

Can I make Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cauliflower and batter ahead of time. Just coat the cauliflower and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake or air fry!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower?

To avoid sogginess, ensure the cauliflower is well-coated and spaced out on the baking sheet. Also, don’t skip flipping them halfway through cooking for even crispiness.

Variations of Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower You Can Try

Get creative with these variations:

For a sweeter twist, try a baked spicy cauliflower with buffalo sauce and a dash of honey.
Add a crunchy topping by mixing in breadcrumbs before baking.
Experiment with different sauces, like BBQ for a tangy flavor.

Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower: 7 Reasons to Love This Snack

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Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower: The Perfect Vegan Snack or Dinner

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Snack
Method: Baking or Air Frying
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

Scale

1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
1 cup flour (all-purpose or chickpea flour for a gluten-free option)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup buffalo sauce
2 tablespoons vegan butter (or regular butter if you’re not vegan)
1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
Optional garnishes: Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro, Ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), or if you’re using an air fryer, preheat it to 375°F (190°C). If baking, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the almond milk and olive oil, and whisk until the batter is smooth.
Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated. Place the coated cauliflower on the prepared baking sheet or air fryer basket in a single layer.
Oven Method: Bake the cauliflower at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown and crispy. Air Fryer Method: Air fry the cauliflower at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
While the cauliflower is cooking, melt the vegan butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add the buffalo sauce and maple syrup (if using). Stir to combine and heat through, then remove from heat.
Once the cauliflower is crispy, remove it from the oven or air fryer. Drizzle the buffalo sauce over the cauliflower and toss gently to coat. You can add more sauce depending on your spice preference.
Serve your crispy buffalo cauliflower wings hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro. Enjoy with your favorite ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping.