If you’re on the lookout for a snack that’s bursting with flavor, crisp on the outside, and tender on the inside, the Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish takes humble cauliflower florets and transforms them into a crunchy, spicy, saucy delight that’s perfect for game days, casual snacking, or even as a fun appetizer when friends come over. Using the air fryer means you get all the crispiness without deep frying, making it a lighter yet satisfyingly indulgent treat. Whether you’re a longtime buffalo sauce fan or just dipping your toes into plant-based comfort food, this recipe promises a wow-factor every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the first step toward creating the perfect balance of crunch, spice, and zest in your buffalo cauliflower. Each component is thoughtfully chosen to build layers of flavor and texture, from the crispy batter to the piquant buffalo sauce coating.
- ⅔ cup all-purpose flour: Provides the base to hold the batter together and create a crispy crust.
- ¼ cup cornstarch: Adds extra crunch by lightening the batter texture for that delightful crispiness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a subtle pungent aroma that enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Brings a savory depth that complements the sweetness of cauliflower.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds warmth and a dash of smokiness to the batter.
- ½ teaspoon sea salt: Balances the flavors and ensures everything tastes just right.
- ¾ cup water: Helps bind the dry ingredients into a smooth, pourable batter.
- 1 head cauliflower (about 2 pounds), broken into large florets: The star of the dish, providing a tender bite with a natural mild flavor perfect for soaking up buffalo sauce.
- Buffalo sauce, for brushing: The fiery finishing touch that gives this recipe its signature kick.
- Vegan ranch, for dipping (optional): A creamy cooling partner that contrasts beautifully with the spicy sauce.
How to Make Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F. This ensures that when you place your cauliflower inside, it immediately begins to crisp up, locking in moisture and delivering that incredible crunch.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, sea salt, and water together until you get a smooth, lump-free batter. This batter is what gives your cauliflower that irresistible crispy coating, so make sure it’s nice and smooth before moving on.
Step 3: Coat the Cauliflower
Toss the cauliflower florets into the batter one by one, ensuring each piece is fully covered. This coating forms the crust that will crisp up as it air fries, making every bite a little crispy parcel of flavor.
Step 4: Air Fry the Cauliflower
Arrange the battered cauliflower florets in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Cook for 9 minutes, then carefully flip them over. Brush the top of each floret with buffalo sauce, then air fry for another 5 to 10 minutes, depending on your desired level of crispiness. The result? Fluffy cauliflower wrapped in a crunchy, spicy embrace.
Step 5: Finish with More Buffalo Sauce
Once cooked, remove the florets and immediately brush them with a generous layer of buffalo sauce. This final step ensures each bite bursts with bold, tangy flavor. Serve immediately for the best experience.
How to Serve Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions adds a pop of color and fresh flavor that contrasts beautifully with the deep orange buffalo sauce. You can also dust with a touch of smoked paprika for an extra smoky punch.
Side Dishes
This dish shines as a standalone snack, but it plays wonderfully alongside crisp celery sticks and crunchy carrot batons. Pair it with your favorite vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing to cool the heat and create a perfect balance. For a more filling option, serve it over a bed of fluffy quinoa or alongside a crisp green salad for a light yet satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Impress guests by stacking your buffalo cauliflower florets on a platter lined with parchment paper and drizzling extra buffalo sauce artistically over the top. You might also serve them as sliders with small buns and creamy coleslaw for a mouthwatering twist. Another idea is to sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds and chopped peanuts on top for a crunchy, nutty dimension.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover buffalo cauliflower can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce separate if possible to prevent the florets from becoming soggy.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover cooked cauliflower by laying the florets out on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for 1 to 2 months. Just remember that the texture will be best if reheated straight from frozen and not thawed.
Reheating
Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5 to 7 minutes to revive crispiness. Avoid the microwave if you can, as it tends to make the batter soggy instead of crunchy.
FAQs
Can I use a different kind of flour for the batter?
Absolutely! While all-purpose flour works best for that light, crispy texture, you can substitute with gluten-free or whole wheat flour if preferred. Just keep in mind the texture may vary slightly.
Is the buffalo sauce spicy?
Typically, buffalo sauce carries a medium heat level that’s flavorful but not overwhelming. You can always adjust the heat by choosing a milder sauce or adding a few drops of hot sauce if you want more kick.
Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?
If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the cauliflower in a preheated oven at 425°F for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. It won’t get quite as crispy but will still be delicious.
How do I make vegan ranch for dipping?
Vegan ranch can be made by blending vegan mayonnaise, plant-based milk, garlic powder, dried dill, onion powder, salt, and a splash of apple cider vinegar. It’s creamy and tangy, the perfect complement to spicy buffalo cauliflower.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
As written, this recipe contains gluten because of the all-purpose flour. To make it gluten-free, swap the flour for a gluten-free all-purpose blend and confirm your buffalo sauce is also gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend enough giving this Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe a try. It’s a fun, delicious way to bring something new and exciting to your snack or appetizer game without much fuss. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a crowd, this recipe delivers crunchy, spicy joy in every bite. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
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Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower recipe offers a deliciously crispy and spicy alternative to traditional buffalo wings. Coated in a flavorful batter and tossed in tangy buffalo sauce, these cauliflower bites are perfect as a vegan appetizer or snack. Ready in just 40 minutes, they provide a healthier, lower-calorie way to enjoy the bold flavors of buffalo sauce with a satisfying crunch from the air fryer.
Ingredients
Batter
- ⅔ cup all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¾ cup water
Main
- 1 head cauliflower, about 2 pounds, broken into large florets
- Buffalo sauce, for brushing
- Vegan ranch, for dipping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F and allow it to fully preheat to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, sea salt, and water until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. This batter will help coat the cauliflower florets evenly and create a crispy texture when air fried.
- Coat the Cauliflower: Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring they are thoroughly coated. This step is essential for that signature crunchy exterior after air frying.
- Arrange in Air Fryer Basket: Place the batter-coated cauliflower florets in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, taking care not to overcrowd, so they cook evenly and get crispy.
- Initial Air Fry: Cook the cauliflower for 9 minutes at 400°F. This initial crisping sets the batter and begins the cooking process.
- Flip and Sauce: Carefully flip the florets to ensure even cooking on all sides. Brush them generously with buffalo sauce to infuse them with spicy, tangy flavor.
- Final Air Fry: Continue air frying the cauliflower for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the florets are crisp and golden brown, and the sauce has lightly caramelized on the surface.
- Serve: Remove the cauliflower from the air fryer, brush with more buffalo sauce if desired, and serve immediately with vegan ranch dressing on the side for dipping, adding a creamy contrast to the spicy bites.
Notes
- For extra crispy cauliflower, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation.
- You can adjust the amount of buffalo sauce depending on your spice preference.
- If you don’t have vegan ranch, serve with blue cheese or a simple celery stick for a classic buffalo pairing.
- Use gluten-free flour and cornstarch alternatives to make this recipe gluten free.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and are best reheated in the air fryer to maintain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
