Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower in Air Fryer

© Original recipe by The Pantry Post ©

🔥 Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower in Air Fryer: The Perfect Spicy Vegetarian Snack! 🌶️🥦

1. Introduction

If you’re searching for a flavorful, veggie-packed snack that hits all the right notes—crispiness, heat, and a touch of tang—look no further than air fryer buffalo cauliflower. This dish transforms humble cauliflower into irresistible spicy buffalo bites, with a crispy coating that’s just as satisfying as traditional chicken wings. Perfect for vegetarians or anyone craving a spicy vegetarian appetizer, these cauliflower bites are a game-changer for game day, parties, or a quick, healthy snack.

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in 30 mins: Quick to prepare for impromptu gatherings or weeknight dinners.
• Healthy & delicious: Less oil than deep-frying, but still incredibly crispy.
• Vegan & vegetarian-friendly: Perfect for plant-based diets or those reducing meat intake.
• Spicy with a tangy kick: Buffalo sauce delivers that signature spicy flavor with a delightful zing.

3. Ingredient Notes

For this air fryer buffalo cauliflower recipe, selecting high-quality ingredients makes a noticeable difference. Use fresh, firm cauliflower florets—they hold up well when crispy. When choosing hot sauce, opt for a flavorful, vinegary brand like Frank’s RedHot, which is classic for buffalo-style dishes. For the breading, a combination of panko breadcrumbs and nutritional yeast provides a crispy, cheesy flavor without dairy. Finally, to keep things vegan, use a plant-based milk or a thickened milk alternative in the batter.

4. Kitchen Tools You Need

Cooking this spicy snack is made easier with some essential kitchen gear. I recommend the Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer by Amazon Basics. Its versatile settings ensure perfectly crispy cauliflower every time with minimal effort, and its compact size is ideal for small kitchens. A good nonstick cookware set makes breading easier, while a sturdy baking sheet can help with initial prep if you want to oven-finish the cauliflower for extra crispiness.

5. How to Make Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower in Air Fryer

Preparation of Cauliflower

Start by washing and thoroughly drying a head of cauliflower. Cut it into uniform bite-sized florets—this helps them cook evenly. Toss the florets in a mixture of flour, spices, and your choice of plant-based milk to create a batter that clings well. When coated, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they’re not crowded to promote crispness.

Crisping the Cauliflower

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the cauliflower in a single layer, and cook for 15-20 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through to ensure even crisping. Look for that golden-brown exterior and a fragrant aroma—this is your cue that they are perfectly crispy.

Adding the Buffalo Sauce

While the cauliflower cooks, prepare your buffalo sauce by whisking hot sauce, vegan butter or olive oil, and a touch of honey or maple syrup for sweetness. Once the cauliflower is crispy, toss it in the sauce until evenly coated—this imparts that iconic spicy, tangy flavor. Return the coated florets to the air fryer for an additional 2-3 minutes if you want the sauce to set and the bites to develop a slight crust.

6. Expert Tips for Success

• Uniform pieces: Cut cauliflower into similar-sized florets for even cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd: Keep space between florets in the air fryer basket to ensure maximum crispiness.
• Adjust spice levels: Add more hot sauce or cayenne pepper for extra heat or reduce for milder bites.
• For extra crunch: Double coat the cauliflower in batter and breadcrumbs, then air fry again for a crunchier exterior.

7. Variations & Substitutions

If you are avoiding gluten, swap out regular flour for almond or rice flour. For a milder flavor, replace hot sauce with a tangy barbecue sauce. Vegan cheese can be added to the batter for a cheesy twist, or serve with a side of dairy-free ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. Looking for a lower-sodium option? Choose reduced-sodium hot sauce and seasonings.

8. Storage & Reheating

Leftover crispy cauliflower buffalo bites can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes to restore their crunch. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.

9. FAQ

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free panko or almond flour for the batter to keep the dish suitable for a gluten-free diet.

How spicy is this buffalo cauliflower?

The level of spice depends on your choice of hot sauce. Frank’s RedHot offers a mild to moderate heat, but you can add extra cayenne pepper or a hotter sauce for increased spiciness.

Can I bake these in the oven?

Yes, bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy. For best results, use a wire rack to elevate the cauliflower and promote even crispiness.

10. Conclusion

This air fryer buffalo cauliflower recipe is a savory, spicy, and healthy snack that elevates vegetables to new heights. With its irresistible crispy coating and fiery buffalo sauce, it’s sure to become a favorite for vegetarians, vegans, and spicy food lovers alike. Enjoy this guilt-free indulgence during your next casual gathering or as a flavorful appetizer—crisp, fiery, and utterly delicious!

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