Crispy Baked Buffalo Cauliflower Bites: A Spicy, Crunchy Plant-Based Snack

Crispy Baked Buffalo Cauliflower Bites are the perfect snack or appetizer for anyone who loves a bit of heat and crunch. These plant-based bites are a healthier alternative to traditional buffalo wings but pack all the bold, spicy flavor. The cauliflower is coated in a crispy, seasoned batter, baked to golden perfection, and then tossed in a tangy buffalo sauce that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re serving them at a game day party, enjoying them as a snack, or pairing them with your favorite dipping sauce, these cauliflower bites are sure to be a hit.

Ingredients:

For the cauliflower:

• 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for a gluten-free version)
• 1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (such as almond or oat milk)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the buffalo sauce:

• 1/2 cup buffalo hot sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted vegan butter (or regular butter if not vegan)
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup or agave syrup (optional, for sweetness)

For serving:

• Vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing (optional)
• Fresh celery and carrots (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
2. Prepare the cauliflower: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, plant-based milk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper to create the batter. Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, coating it evenly. Place the battered florets on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
3. Bake the cauliflower: Bake the cauliflower in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping the florets halfway through, until they are golden and crispy on the edges. Keep an eye on them towards the end to ensure they don’t burn.
4. Make the buffalo sauce: While the cauliflower is baking, melt the vegan butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the buffalo hot sauce and maple syrup (if using) and stir to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
5. Toss the cauliflower: Once the cauliflower is crispy and golden, remove it from the oven. Drizzle the buffalo sauce over the cauliflower and toss gently to coat each floret evenly in the spicy sauce.
6. Serve: Serve the crispy buffalo cauliflower bites immediately with a side of vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. Fresh celery and carrots also make a great accompaniment for an authentic buffalo wing experience.

Why You’ll Love Them:

These Crispy Baked Buffalo Cauliflower Bites offer the perfect balance of spice, crunch, and flavor without the guilt. The cauliflower is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making each bite satisfying. The spicy buffalo sauce adds a tangy heat that’s irresistible, and the dipping sauce provides a cooling contrast. They’re an ideal snack for game day, a healthy alternative to wings, or a flavorful addition to any meal. Plus, they’re quick and easy to make, with simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.