Go Back
To make spicy buffalo cauliflower bites, you need: - 1 large head of 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 cayenne pepper (adjust for desired spiciness) - 1 cup plant-based milk (or regular milk) - 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for an extra crunchy texture) - 1 cup buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade) - 2 tablespoons olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste You can add some freshness to your bites by using: - Chopped fresh parsley for garnish If you want to make this recipe gluten-free, I recommend: - Using gluten-free flour in place of all-purpose flour - Choosing gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular ones For a vegan option, stick with plant-based milk and buffalo sauce. First, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). This high heat helps make the bites crispy. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and helps with cleanup. In a large bowl, mix together the following dry ingredients: - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper - Salt and pepper to taste Stir these well to blend the flavors. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of plant-based milk or regular milk. Keep whisking until the batter is smooth and lump-free. This coating will stick to the cauliflower. Take each cauliflower floret and dip it into the batter. Make sure it is fully covered. Let any extra batter drip back into the bowl. Next, roll each floret in breadcrumbs. Use 1 cup of panko for extra crunch. Place the coated florets on the baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. This will help them crisp up nicely. Once baked, move the cauliflower to a large bowl. Pour 1 cup of buffalo sauce over the hot florets. Toss gently until each piece is coated. Return the sauced cauliflower to the baking sheet. Bake for another 10 minutes. This helps the sauce set and flavors blend. After baking, let them cool for a few minutes. This step allows the flavors to develop even more. To get your cauliflower bites super crispy, use panko breadcrumbs. They give a great crunch. Make sure to coat each floret well in the batter before rolling it in the breadcrumbs. Drizzling olive oil on top helps too. This oil creates a golden crust as they bake. If you want your bites spicier, add more cayenne pepper to the batter. Start with half a teaspoon and taste. You can always add more if you like heat. If you prefer mild bites, use less cayenne. You can also try a milder sauce or skip the buffalo sauce entirely. When you dip each cauliflower piece, make sure to let excess batter drip off. This step keeps the coating light. For an even layer, roll the floret in breadcrumbs gently. Press them slightly to ensure they stick. This way, every bite stays crispy and tasty. {{image_4}} You can make spicy buffalo cauliflower bites vegan by using plant-based milk and flour. Use almond, soy, or oat milk for the batter. For the coating, ensure your breadcrumbs are vegan. This way, you skip any animal products while keeping the flavor. To make these bites gluten-free, swap all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour. You can also use gluten-free breadcrumbs to keep that crunch. This way, everyone can enjoy the dish without worries. Want to spice things up? Try BBQ sauce instead of buffalo sauce. This gives a sweet and smoky flavor. You can also use garlic parmesan for a cheesy twist. Just mix grated parmesan cheese into your breadcrumbs for extra flavor. Each variation brings a new taste, so have fun experimenting! After enjoying your Spicy Buffalo Cauliflower Bites, let them cool completely. Place any leftovers in an airtight container. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. This keeps them fresh and tasty for your next snack or meal. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the cauliflower bites on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes. This helps them regain their crunch. You can also use an air fryer for about 5 minutes at 350°F (175°C). This method works well too. If you want to save some bites for later, freezing is a great option. Place the cooled cauliflower bites in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour. Once frozen, move them to a freezer bag. They can stay in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, bake them straight from the freezer. Cook them at 450°F (230°C) for about 20-25 minutes, until heated through. Spicy Buffalo Cauliflower Bites can be as spicy as you want. The heat comes from cayenne pepper in the batter. You can adjust this amount to suit your taste. If you prefer mild bites, use less cayenne. If you love heat, add more. The buffalo sauce also adds spice, so consider that when choosing your heat level. Yes, you can make these bites ahead of time. Prepare the cauliflower and batter and coat them earlier. Store the coated florets in the fridge for a few hours. When you’re ready to bake, just follow the baking steps. This saves time and makes them a great snack for parties. These bites pair well with many dips. Creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing are classic choices. Fresh veggies like celery and carrots also make great sides. You can serve them on a platter for a fun appetizer. Don’t forget to add chopped parsley for color! Yes, Spicy Buffalo Cauliflower Bites can be healthy. Cauliflower is low in calories and high in fiber. The batter and breadcrumbs do add some carbs, but you can use whole grain options. Baking instead of frying keeps them lighter. Enjoy them as a snack or side dish for a nutritious choice! This post covered all you need to make Spicy Buffalo Cauliflower Bites. We explored key ingredients, easy steps, and helpful tips for crispiness. You learned about fun variations, like vegan options and garlic flavors. I also shared storage tips to keep your bites fresh. With these details, you can enjoy a tasty treat anytime. Dive into your kitchen and create your own spicy bites!

Spicy Buffalo Cauliflower Bites

Get ready for a flavor explosion with these spicy buffalo cauliflower bites! This delicious recipe features crispy, batter-coated cauliflower tossed in zesty buffalo sauce, perfect for game day or a satisfying snack. Learn how to make these crunchy bites with a step-by-step guide that includes simple ingredients and easy instructions. Don't miss out—click through to explore this mouthwatering recipe and spice up your cooking today!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 large head of 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 cayenne pepper (adjust for desired spiciness)

1 cup plant-based milk (or regular milk)

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for an extra crunchy texture)

1 cup buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

    Prepare the Batter: In a spacious mixing bowl, add in the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, along with salt and pepper. Stir these dry ingredients together until they are well mixed.

      Make it Smooth: Gradually whisk the plant-based milk into the dry mixture until you achieve a smooth and lump-free batter. This will be the coating for your cauliflower.

        Coat the Cauliflower: One by one, dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, making sure to cover it completely. Allow any excess batter to drip back into the bowl.

          Breadcrumb Coating: Roll each batter-coated floret in the breadcrumbs, ensuring they are fully coated for that extra crunch. Place the coated florets on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.

            Add Olive Oil: Drizzle the coated florets with olive oil to enhance crispiness during baking.

              Bake to Perfection: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping the florets halfway through the cooking process. They should be golden brown and crunchy when done.

                Toss in Buffalo Sauce: In a separate bowl, carefully toss the baked cauliflower bites in the buffalo sauce until each piece is evenly coated.

                  Final Bake: Return the sauced cauliflower to the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the sauce to set and flavors to meld.

                    Cooling Period: Once baked, remove from the oven and let the bites cool for a couple of minutes before serving to enhance their flavor.

                      Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4

                        - Presentation Tips: Serve your spicy buffalo cauliflower bites in a vibrant bowl, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for added freshness. Pair with a side of creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing for a perfect dipping experience. Enjoy!