Buffalo cauliflower is a fantastic plant-based alternative to traditional buffalo wings, providing all the crispy, spicy, and tangy goodness with a fraction of the calories. This Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower recipe is a must-try, especially for anyone looking to enjoy a healthier yet equally delicious snack or appetizer. The cauliflower florets are perfectly seasoned, battered, and air-fried to crispy perfection before being tossed in a zesty buffalo sauce. With minimal effort and simple ingredients, you can have this mouthwatering dish ready in no time.

Cooking cauliflower in the air fryer not only delivers a fantastic crunch but also makes the process incredibly easy and quick compared to traditional frying. Whether you’re serving it at a party, as an appetizer, or just enjoying it as a satisfying snack, this recipe is sure to be a hit. You can customize the spice level and enjoy it with your favorite dipping sauces for added flavor. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe, how to make it, and how to tweak it to suit your tastes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Healthier Alternative to Fried Wings

Buffalo cauliflower is a guilt-free snack, as it’s air-fried instead of deep-fried. This results in fewer calories while still delivering that crispy texture.

2. Quick and Easy to Make

This recipe comes together in no time, with just a few simple steps in the air fryer. Perfect for a busy weeknight or last-minute snack.

3. Versatile Flavor

The spicy buffalo sauce pairs wonderfully with the subtle flavor of cauliflower, making each bite both tangy and savory. You can adjust the spice level to match your preference.

4. Perfect for Vegans and Vegetarians

This dish is entirely plant-based, making it a great option for those following vegan or vegetarian diets without sacrificing flavor.

5. Customizable Toppings and Dips

Serve it with a variety of dips, such as ranch or blue cheese, and get creative with toppings. You can add chopped green onions, parsley, or even a drizzle of ranch dressing for added flavor.

Ingredients

Cauliflower (cut into bite-sized florets)
All-purpose flour

Water
Garlic powder
Onion powder

Smoked paprika
Salt
Black pepper

Buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Unsalted butter (melted)
Cooking spray

Variations

Spicy Buffalo Cauliflower

Increase the amount of buffalo sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to kick up the heat. For a fiery version, try using a hotter brand of buffalo sauce or adding some chili flakes.

Gluten-Free Version

For a gluten-free option, swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or chickpea flour. Ensure your buffalo sauce is also gluten-free.

Vegan “Ranch” Dip

Pair your buffalo cauliflower with a vegan ranch dip made from dairy-free yogurt, garlic powder, onion powder, and dill for a creamy complement.

Parmesan Coating

For an added layer of flavor, toss the cauliflower in grated Parmesan cheese after it’s air-fried for a cheesy, savory twist.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower

Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Make sure the florets are similar in size for even cooking.

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Slowly add the water and whisk until a smooth batter forms.

Step 3: Coat the Cauliflower

Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, making sure it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess batter before placing the florets in the air fryer basket.

Step 4: Air Fry the Cauliflower

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F. Spray the basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the battered cauliflower in the basket in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap. Air fry for 15-20 minutes, shaking halfway through for even crispness.

Step 5: Make the Buffalo Sauce

While the cauliflower is cooking, mix the buffalo sauce and melted butter in a small bowl. Once the cauliflower is crispy, toss the florets in the buffalo sauce mixture, ensuring each piece is well-coated.

Step 6: Serve

Serve your buffalo cauliflower immediately while hot, with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Ensure Even Coating: Make sure the cauliflower is fully coated with the batter for the crispiest texture.
Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Cook the cauliflower in batches if necessary to ensure each piece gets crispy.

Toss the Cauliflower Gently: When tossing in buffalo sauce, be gentle to avoid breaking the florets.
Adjust the Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to suit your preferred spice tolerance.

How to Serve

Buffalo cauliflower can be served as a standalone snack, appetizer, or even as a side dish. It pairs wonderfully with ranch or blue cheese dressing. If you’re feeling extra, you can top it with chopped green onions or fresh herbs for extra flavor and color. It also makes a great addition to a vegan or vegetarian platter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover buffalo cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven for the best texture.

Freezing

If you want to freeze the buffalo cauliflower, place the cooked cauliflower in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 2-3 hours before transferring it to a freezer bag. You can freeze it for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To reheat, air fry the cauliflower at 375°F for 5-7 minutes or until crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the cauliflower soggy.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower. Just ensure to thaw and dry it completely before coating it with batter.

2. Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?

Yes, you can bake the cauliflower in a preheated oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

3. Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can use chickpea flour, rice flour, or even a gluten-free flour blend for a different texture.

4. How do I make buffalo sauce from scratch?

Mix hot sauce with melted butter, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt for a simple homemade buffalo sauce.

5. Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is vegan as long as you use dairy-free butter and make sure the buffalo sauce is dairy-free.

6. How spicy is the buffalo cauliflower?

The spice level depends on the buffalo sauce you use. You can adjust the heat by adding more sauce or using a milder version.

7. How can I make the cauliflower crispier?

For extra crispiness, air fry the cauliflower in a single layer and spray it lightly with cooking oil.

8. Can I add cheese to this recipe?

Yes, you can sprinkle shredded cheese over the cauliflower during the last few minutes of air frying for a cheesy version.

9. Can I use other vegetables in place of cauliflower?

Yes, you can try using broccoli or even Brussels sprouts, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary.

10. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, simply increase the ingredients proportionally and cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.

Conclusion

This Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower recipe is an irresistible and healthy alternative to traditional buffalo wings, offering a perfect balance of crispy texture and spicy, tangy flavor. Whether you’re following a vegan diet, looking for a low-calorie snack, or just craving something delicious, this dish ticks all the boxes. Easy to make, customizable, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make over and over again. So grab some cauliflower, fire up the air fryer, and enjoy this tasty treat!