Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
Crispy, spicy cauliflower bites coated in tangy buffalo sauce, cooked in the air fryer for a crunchy texture without deep frying. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or game-day dish.
Yield
4 servings
Ingredients
Cauliflower
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1 tbsp olive oil or cooking spray
Batter (Crispy Coating)
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for vegan/gluten-free option)
- 1/2 cup water (adjust as needed)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Buffalo Sauce
- 1/3 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s-style)
- 2 tbsp vegan butter or regular butter
- 1 tsp maple syrup or sugar (optional, balances heat)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley
- Vegan ranch or blue cheese dip
- Celery sticks
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Tongs
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Cauliflower
- Wash and dry cauliflower.
- Cut into even bite-sized florets.
- Pat dry to help coating stick.
Step 2: Make Batter
In a bowl, mix:
- Flour
- Water
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Smoked paprika
- Salt
- Pepper
Whisk until smooth and slightly thick (like pancake batter).
Add a little more water if too thick.
Step 3: Coat Cauliflower
- Add florets to batter.
- Toss until fully coated.
- Shake off excess batter lightly.
Step 4: Air Fry First Cook
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly spray basket with oil.
- Place cauliflower in a single layer.
Cook:
- 12–15 minutes
Shake or flip halfway through.
Bites should be lightly golden and starting to crisp.
Step 5: Make Buffalo Sauce
In a small pan or microwave-safe bowl:
- Melt butter.
- Stir in hot sauce.
- Add maple syrup and garlic powder (optional).
- Mix until smooth.
Step 6: Toss in Sauce
- Place air-fried cauliflower in a large bowl.
- Pour buffalo sauce over top.
- Toss gently to coat evenly.
Step 7: Air Fry Again (Final Crisping)
- Return coated cauliflower to air fryer.
- Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes.
This helps the sauce stick and caramelize slightly.
Step 8: Serve
Serve hot with:
- Vegan ranch or yogurt dip
- Celery sticks
- Carrot sticks
Variations
Extra Crispy Version
- Add 2 tbsp cornstarch to batter
- Double air fry time slightly
Gluten-Free Version
- Use chickpea flour or rice flour
Sweet Heat Version
- Add more maple syrup or a drizzle of agave
Oil-Free Version
- Skip butter, use hot sauce + a splash of water
Storage
Refrigerator
- Up to 3 days
Freezer
- Not ideal (loss of crispiness)
Reheating
Best methods:
- Air fryer at 375°F for 5–6 minutes
- Oven at 400°F for 8–10 minutes
Avoid microwave (makes soggy).
Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120–220
- Carbs: Moderate
- Fat: Low to moderate
- Protein: 3–6 g
