Spicy, tangy, and irresistibly crispy, these Air-Fried Buffalo Cauliflower Bites are a healthier take on the classic appetizer. Coated in a fiery buffalo sauce and cooked to perfection in the air fryer, they make for a perfect snack or party starter. Serve with cooling ranch or blue cheese dip to balance the heat!
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or a gluten-free alternative)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (or a plant-based alternative)
- Optional: Ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping
Instructions
- Prepare the Batter:
- In a bowl, mix the flour, water, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Coat the Cauliflower:
- Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring they are fully coated. Let the excess batter drip off before placing them on a tray or plate.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
- Air Fry the Cauliflower:
- Place the coated florets in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the florets are crispy and lightly golden.
- Toss in Buffalo Sauce:
- While the cauliflower cooks, mix the buffalo sauce with melted butter. Once the florets are done, toss them in the sauce until evenly coated.
- Air Fry Again:
- Return the sauced cauliflower to the air fryer and cook for an additional 5 minutes to set the sauce.
- Serve:
- Transfer to a serving plate and pair with ranch or blue cheese dressing. Garnish with celery sticks or chopped parsley if desired.
Time
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Serves
- Serves 4 people (as an appetizer or snack).
Nutritional Breakdown (per serving, approximate)
- Calories: 140
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
Key Notes
- Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level by choosing mild, medium, or hot buffalo sauce.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use almond flour or chickpea flour for a gluten-free batter.
- Crispier Texture: Lightly spray the florets with cooking oil before air frying.
- Make Ahead: Batter the florets in advance and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before air frying.
These Spicy Air-Fried Buffalo Cauliflower Bites are perfect for game nights, parties, or as a flavorful snack. Let me know if you need more tips or tweaks!