Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
Buffalo Cauliflower Bites are a crispy, flavorful vegetarian snack coated in a spicy buffalo sauce, baked to perfection, and served with cooling ranch and fresh veggies. This recipe is quick to prepare, uses simple ingredients, and offers a healthy alternative to traditional buffalo wings.
Equipment
- 1 Knife Block Set
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Mixing Bowl Set
- 1 Balloon Whisk
- 1 Aluminum Sheet Pan
Ingredients
- 1 large head of cauliflower separated into bite-sized florets
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup water
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Cooking spray for greasing
- ½ cup hot sauce such as Frank’s RedHot
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- ½ tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing for serving
- Fresh celery sticks and carrot sticks for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Baking Surface: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Lightly grease a large baking sheet with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Make the Batter: In a spacious mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and water until smooth and lump-free. Stir in garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to season the batter evenly.
- Coat the Cauliflower Florets: Add the cauliflower florets to the batter bowl and gently toss until each piece is well coated with the seasoned batter, creating an even layer that will crisp up beautifully.
- Arrange for Baking: Spread the battered cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave a little space between each piece. This helps them cook evenly and get crispy.
- Initial Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, turning the florets over halfway through to promote even browning and crispiness.
- Prepare Buffalo Sauce: While the cauliflower bakes, whisk together the hot sauce, melted butter, and lemon juice in a small bowl until well combined and smooth.
- Apply Buffalo Coating: Remove the cauliflower from the oven and brush each piece generously with the prepared buffalo sauce, coating all sides.
- Final Bake: Return the sauce-coated cauliflower to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve immediately with ranch or blue cheese dressing alongside fresh celery and carrot sticks for a classic crunchy complement.
Notes
- Storage Tips: Store leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To re-crisp, reheat in the oven or toaster oven rather than the microwave to maintain crunch.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend in equal amounts to make this recipe gluten-free. Cornstarch can also help add crispness.
- Vegan Version: Replace butter with melted vegan butter or olive oil, and use a vegan-friendly buffalo sauce for a fully plant-based dish.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to swap garlic powder and paprika for your preferred spices like cayenne, chili powder, or cumin to customize the flavor profile.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with crisp raw veggies and your favorite dipping sauce for a balanced and tasty appetizer or snack.
