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Crispy Baked Buffalo Cauliflower Bites

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A healthy, crispy baked alternative to fried wings, featuring cauliflower florets coated in a light batter and tossed in a homemade spicy buffalo sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium head of cauliflower (2–2.5 lbs)
  • 2 tablespoons neutral oil (avocado or light olive oil)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup water or sparkling water
  • 1/2 cup hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. Rinse and dry cauliflower. Cut into 1.5-2 inch florets. Toss with 2 tablespoons oil and spread in a single layer on one baking sheet.
  3. Bake for 20 minutes to remove moisture.
  4. While cauliflower bakes, whisk together flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Gradually whisk in water until a smooth batter forms.
  5. Remove cauliflower from oven and increase oven temperature to 450°F (230°C).
  6. In a large bowl, toss the hot cauliflower with the dry batter mix until evenly coated.
  7. Spread coated florets back onto baking sheets in a single layer.
  8. Bake for another 15-20 minutes until golden brown and crispy, rotating pans halfway through.
  9. While cauliflower bakes, combine hot sauce, melted butter, vinegar, and minced garlic in a small saucepan over low heat. Whisk until smooth and warm.
  10. Remove cauliflower from oven and toss immediately with the buffalo sauce. Serve hot.

Notes

Do not skip the initial bake to drive off moisture. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure crispiness. For air fryer method, cook at 400°F for 10-12 minutes. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven to restore crunch.

Nutrition

Keywords: buffalo cauliflower, baked cauliflower, healthy appetizer, game day food, vegetarian snacks, crispy cauliflower, gluten-free option

Find it online: https://zestynora.com/crispy-baked-buffalo-cauliflower-bites-easy-air-fryer-recipe/