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Crispy Baked Buffalo Cauliflower Bites

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These crispy baked buffalo cauliflower bites feature a spicy glaze and an ultra-crispy coating, making them a flavorful and healthier alternative to traditional buffalo wings. Perfect for snacks, game day, or casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free)
  • 1 cup water (or unsweetened almond milk for creamier batter)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1/2 cup hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (or vegan butter for dairy-free)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Optional for serving: chopped fresh parsley or green onions
  • Optional for serving: ranch or blue cheese dressing

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, baking powder, and cornstarch. Slowly pour in water while whisking until smooth and thick like pancake batter.
  3. Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, coating fully, and let excess drip off. Place coated florets evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
  4. Bake for 20 minutes, flipping the florets halfway through (around 10 minutes) to ensure even browning and crispiness.
  5. While baking, melt butter in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl. Stir in hot sauce, honey or maple syrup, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper if using. Mix until smooth.
  6. Remove cauliflower from oven after 20 minutes. Toss or brush the florets with the spicy glaze until well coated.
  7. Return the coated florets to the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the glaze caramelizes and becomes sticky.
  8. Once baked, sprinkle with chopped parsley or green onions if desired. Serve immediately with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.

Notes

If batter is too thick, add a splash more water; if too thin, add a little extra flour. Do not overcrowd the baking sheet to maintain crispiness. Flipping halfway through baking is essential for even crisping. Use a wire rack for best results. For gluten-free, substitute almond flour and use cornstarch. For dairy-free, use vegan butter or coconut oil. Air frying at 400°F for 15-18 minutes is a good alternative.

Nutrition

Keywords: buffalo cauliflower, crispy cauliflower bites, baked buffalo wings, spicy cauliflower, vegetarian appetizer, gluten-free buffalo bites

Find it online: https://blixfood.com/crispy-baked-buffalo-cauliflower-bites-recipe-easy-spicy-glaze-idea/