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Ultimate Crispy Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Bites

A white plate piled high with crispy, bright orange buffalo cauliflower bites, garnished with fresh green chives.
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Hi, I’m Alex, and I’m so glad you’re here. I created this recipe to give you the best game day appetizer: crispy buffalo cauliflower bites made easily in the air fryer. These spicy, golden florets are tender inside and perfect for sharing.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup cold water
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot Original Cayenne Pepper Sauce (or your favorite hot sauce)
  • 1/4 cup vegan mayonnaise or regular mayonnaise (for dipping sauce)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cauliflower: Place the cauliflower florets in a large bowl.
  2. Make the batter: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Slowly whisk in the cold water until you have a smooth, thin batter consistency, similar to pancake batter.
  3. Coat the cauliflower: Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, letting excess drip off, and place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the basket; work in batches if necessary.
  4. Air fry for crispiness: Air fry at 380°F (195°C) for 15 to 20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the bites are golden brown and crispy.
  5. Prepare the buffalo sauce: While the cauliflower cooks, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Remove from heat and stir in the hot sauce until fully combined.
  6. Toss with sauce: Transfer the hot, crispy cauliflower bites to a large bowl. Pour the buffalo sauce over the cauliflower and gently toss until every piece is evenly coated.
  7. Make the dipping sauce: In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise with a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of salt to taste for a simple creamy dip.
  8. Serve immediately: Garnish the buffalo cauliflower bites with fresh chives and serve hot with your dipping sauce.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness, lightly spray the battered florets with cooking spray before the first air fry cycle.
  • If you prefer oven baking, spread the battered florets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • This recipe is naturally vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by using vegan butter and vegan mayonnaise.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.purecookingjoy.com/buffalo-cauliflower-bites-recipe/

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