Buffalo Cauliflower Bites are a tasty and fun twist on the classic buffalo wings, but totally vegetarian and just as spicy and crunchy. These little bites are made from cauliflower florets that are coated in a crispy batter and then tossed in tangy, spicy buffalo sauce. They’re a great mix of crunchy, saucy, and a little bit fiery—perfect for snack time or game day.
I love making these when friends come over because they always surprise people who expect the usual chicken wings. It’s a nice way to enjoy all that buffalo flavor, but with veggies! I usually serve them with a side of creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing to cool down the heat and some crunchy celery sticks for a fresh bite. Plus, baking instead of frying keeps things lighter and easier in the kitchen.
These bites are great for sharing and I find they disappear fast, which makes me happy and a little proud. They’re simple to prepare but feel special enough for any casual gathering. If you’re a fan of spicy snacks, these cauliflower bites might quickly become your go-to appetizer!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: Fresh cauliflower is best for a crunchy texture. Cut into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. If you want, try using broccoli for a different twist.
Flour: All-purpose flour works well for the batter, but gluten-free flour or chickpea flour are great alternatives for dietary needs. Chickpea flour also adds a nice nutty flavor.
Buffalo Sauce: Use your favorite buffalo hot sauce like Frank’s RedHot. If you want less heat, reduce the amount or mix with a bit of honey or maple syrup. Vegan butter keeps it plant-based.
Seasonings: Garlic powder and smoked paprika add depth. Feel free to add onion powder or cayenne for extra spice if you like.
How Do You Get Crispy, Not Soggy, Buffalo Cauliflower Bites?
Getting that perfect crispy coating without sogginess takes attention to baking and coating steps.
- Batter the cauliflower well but let extra drip off to avoid thick coating.
- Bake first without sauce to let the batter firm up and get a slight crisp.
- Toss in buffalo sauce after initial baking, then bake again to set it and create crispy edges.
- Use high oven heat (around 450°F) for crispness.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; give florets space to bake evenly.
This method keeps the bites crispy on the outside while tender inside and well coated with flavor.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls – I like using large bowls for whisking the batter and tossing the cauliflower, making the process smooth and easy.
- Baking sheet – A sturdy baking sheet helps get the cauliflower crispy and holds everything in place while baking.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – Keeps the cauliflower from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Essential for accurate ingredients, especially for the batter and sauce.
- Whisk or fork – For mixing the batter and buffalo sauce thoroughly.
- Tongs or a large spoon – Handy for tossing cauliflower in the sauce without getting messy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap buffalo hot sauce for sriracha or a sweet chili sauce for different spice levels and flavors.
- Add grated Parmesan or vegan cheese on top before baking for extra cheesy flavor.
- Toss in roasted garlic or onion powder with the batter for a flavor boost.
- Serve with different dips like ranch, blue cheese, or even a tangy yogurt sauce for variety.
How to Make Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cauliflower and Batter:
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
- 1 cup water or unsweetened plant-based milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Buffalo Sauce:
- ¾ cup buffalo hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 2 tbsp vegan butter or regular butter, melted
For Serving and Garnish:
- Fresh chives or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Celery sticks, for serving
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 35 minutes of baking time, giving you a total of approximately 45 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy dish that comes together nicely for a snack or party appetizer.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping and Baking the Cauliflower:
Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. In a large bowl, whisk the flour, water (or plant-based milk), garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until you have a smooth batter. Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter to coat it evenly, then let any extra drip back into the bowl. Place the coated florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
2. First Bake to Firm Up the Batter:
Bake the cauliflower for 20 minutes until the batter becomes firm and starts to turn golden. This step helps create a crispy coating that won’t get soggy when you add the sauce.
3. Tossing in Buffalo Sauce:
While the cauliflower is baking, mix together the buffalo hot sauce and melted butter in a bowl. Once the cauliflower is out of the oven, carefully toss the hot florets in the buffalo sauce until they’re fully coated.
4. Final Bake for Crispiness:
Return the sauced cauliflower to the baking sheet and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes. This locks in the sauce and crisps up the edges, giving you that classic buffalo bite texture.
5. Serving Your Buffalo Cauliflower Bites:
Transfer the finished bites to a serving platter. Drizzle with ranch or blue cheese dressing and sprinkle with fresh chives or parsley for a fresh touch. Serve them immediately with celery sticks on the side to balance out the spice with a cool crunch.
Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower for Buffalo Cauliflower Bites?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry to remove excess moisture. This helps the batter stick better and keeps the bites crispy.
How Can I Make These Buffalo Cauliflower Bites Gluten-Free?
Simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or chickpea flour. These alternatives work well in the batter and maintain a great crispy texture.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover buffalo cauliflower bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes to keep them crispy.
Can I Make These Bites Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and bake the battered cauliflower ahead, then toss in buffalo sauce and do the final bake just before serving to keep them fresh and crispy.
