![- 1 head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1 cup water - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 1 cup buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade) - 2 tablespoons olive oil - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) - Celery sticks and ranch dressing (for serving) For this recipe, I recommend using fresh cauliflower. It gives the best crunch. If you can't find fresh, frozen cauliflower works too, but it may be softer. You can swap all-purpose flour for gluten-free flour if needed. Just ensure it has a similar texture. You can also try chickpea flour for a unique taste. When sourcing ingredients, look for the freshest cauliflower at your local market. Choose heads that feel heavy and firm. If you prefer homemade buffalo sauce, use hot sauce mixed with melted butter for a classic flavor. Always check your pantry for spices like smoked paprika; they can really elevate your dish. The recipe is simple and fun to make. It’s a great snack or appetizer for any occasion. For the full recipe, check the instructions above. Enjoy your cooking! To start, you need to prepare the cauliflower florets. First, take one head of cauliflower and wash it well. Cut it into bite-sized pieces. Make sure they are all similar in size for even cooking. Next, let’s mix the batter for coating. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. You want the batter to be thick enough to coat the cauliflower. It should be smooth and creamy. Now, it’s time to get your air fryer ready. Preheat it to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step helps achieve that crispy texture. While it preheats, spray the basket lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the battered cauliflower florets in the air fryer basket. Make sure to arrange them in a single layer without touching. This helps them cook evenly. You might need to do this in batches. Cook the cauliflower for 10-12 minutes. Remember to shake the basket halfway through. This helps all sides become golden and crispy. While the cauliflower cooks, prepare to toss it in buffalo sauce. In a large bowl, combine your favorite buffalo sauce with olive oil. Once the cauliflower is done cooking, transfer it carefully into the bowl. Toss gently to coat the florets evenly with the sauce. Now, return the coated cauliflower to the air fryer. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes. This second cook enhances the flavor and makes the bites even crispier. Once done, remove them from the air fryer and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. For extra fun, serve with celery sticks and ranch dressing on the side. Enjoy your spicy snack! For the complete recipe, check [Full Recipe]. To get that crispy texture, you need the right batter. Aim for a thick batter that coats each floret well. If it’s too runny, the cauliflower won’t crisp up. Start with one cup of flour and one cup of water. Mix until smooth, then add spices like garlic and onion powder. This adds great flavor! Air frying in batches is key. If you fill the basket too much, the florets will steam instead of crisp. Keep them in a single layer with space in between. This way, air can flow freely around them. You can cook them in two or three batches if needed. Buffalo cauliflower pairs well with dips. I love using ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing. They help balance the heat from the buffalo sauce. Serve with crunchy celery sticks for a refreshing contrast. For garnishing, a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and flavor. You can even add sliced green onions for a bit more zest. Serve everything together on a platter to impress your guests! Watch out for some common issues while cooking. If the batter is too thin, the cauliflower may turn out soggy. Ensure it sticks well to each piece. Also, don’t forget to shake the basket halfway through cooking. This helps all sides get crispy. If you notice the cauliflower isn’t browning, you might need more time. Just keep an eye on them to prevent burning. If the texture seems off, check the batter's thickness. You can also adjust cooking time to get that perfect crunch. Just remember, practice makes perfect! For full details, check the Full Recipe. {{image_2}} You can change the spice level of your Buffalo cauliflower bites. For a mild flavor, use less buffalo sauce or mix in some ranch dressing. If you enjoy heat, add extra hot sauce or cayenne pepper. You can also try barbecue sauce for a sweet twist. Teriyaki sauce gives it a savory and sweet flavor, perfect for a different taste. If you're gluten-free, swap out all-purpose flour for almond flour or chickpea flour. Both work great for the batter. For a vegan option, use plant-based milk instead of water. You can also choose a vegan buffalo sauce to keep it plant-based. Want to add more flavor? Try mixing in cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste. You can also pair the cauliflower with other veggies like carrots or bell peppers. This adds color and crunch, making your snack even more exciting. After enjoying your Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower, store any leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and tasty. Place the container in the fridge. Buffalo cauliflower stays good for up to 3 days. Make sure it is cooled down completely before sealing the container. This helps prevent moisture buildup, which can make the cauliflower soggy. To reheat your buffalo cauliflower, use your air fryer for the best results. Set it to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This method helps keep the crispiness intact. You can also try the oven method. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spread the florets on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10 minutes. Avoid using the microwave, as it tends to make the cauliflower soggy. Yes, you can freeze buffalo cauliflower! First, let it cool completely. Then, place the florets in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer the florets into a freezer-safe bag. Press out as much air as possible. They can last for about 2 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat them in the air fryer to regain that crispy texture. How do I make the batter thicker? To thicken the batter, add more flour. Mix it in slowly until you get the right texture. The batter should coat the cauliflower well. A thick batter helps create a crispy crust. Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh? Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower. However, thaw it first and drain any excess water. This step helps the batter stick better and keeps the texture nice. What is the best way to clean my air fryer after cooking? After cooking, let your air fryer cool. Then, remove the basket and tray. Wash them with warm, soapy water. For stubborn stains, use a soft sponge. Wipe the inside with a damp cloth. Each serving of Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower has about 150 calories. It contains 5g of protein, 7g of fat, and 18g of carbs. If you want to make it lighter, use less batter or buffalo sauce. For a vegan option, choose a plant-based ranch dressing. Pair your Buffalo cauliflower with a cold drink like lemonade or iced tea. For a fun party theme, serve it with celery sticks and ranch dressing. This combo is perfect for game day or snack time with friends. You can also add it to a veggie platter for a colorful spread. In this blog post, we covered how to make Buffalo cauliflower in an air fryer. We discussed ingredients, preparation, and cooking steps. Tips for perfect texture and serving suggestions enhance your dish. Remember to explore variations for flavor and dietary needs. As you make this dish, enjoy the process and get creative. Buffalo cauliflower can be a fun addition to any meal. With practice, you’ll master every step and impress your friends!](https://cookingwells.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/fb0ffe0a-d793-4922-9519-66b6c4ab67cc-250x250.webp)
Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower
Looking for a delicious, healthy snack? Try these mouthwatering buffalo cauliflower bites! This easy recipe combines crispy air-fried cauliflower with a spicy buffalo sauce for a tasty treat everyone will love. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser perfect for any occasion. Click through to discover the full recipe and serve these flavorful bites with ranch dressing for an irresistible appetizer!