Make the best buffalo cauliflower using your air fryer for an ultimate crunch. These crispy, spicy bites are a perfect game day appetizer and a healthy meatless wing alternative.
Author:leogrant
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:20 min
Total Time:35 min
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Appetizer
Method:Air Frying
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 cup cold water
1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
2 tablespoons melted butter or vegan butter substitute
For Serving: Ranch or blue cheese dipping sauce, celery sticks
Instructions
Prepare the cauliflower: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Pour in the cold water and whisk until you have a thin batter. Toss the cauliflower florets in the batter until lightly coated.
Air fry for crispness: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the battered cauliflower in a single layer, working in batches if necessary. Air fry for 15 to 20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy.
Make the buffalo sauce: While the cauliflower cooks, combine the buffalo wing sauce and melted butter in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth. Do not boil.
Toss and serve: Transfer the hot, crispy cauliflower to a large bowl. Pour the buffalo sauce mixture over the cauliflower and toss gently until all pieces are evenly coated.
Serve immediately with your preferred dipping sauce and celery sticks.
Notes
For extra crispiness, you can lightly spray the battered cauliflower with oil before the first air fry cycle.
To achieve the best results, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket; cook in batches for maximum air circulation.
If you prefer baking, arrange the battered florets on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.