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Crispy Baked Buffalo Cauliflower: Easy Best Recipe

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These crispy baked buffalo cauliflower bites are a healthier, vegetarian alternative to classic buffalo wings. They are perfectly crunchy, spicy, and tangy, making them an irresistible snack or main dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head of cauliflower (about 2 lbs or 900g), cut into bite-sized florets
  • 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour (or gluten-free 1:1 baking blend)
  • 1 cup (240ml) milk (dairy or unsweetened plant-based)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups (200g) panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
  • ½ cup (120ml) buffalo wing sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (or vegan butter)
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. Wash the cauliflower and cut it into uniform, bite-sized florets (about 1.5 inches across). Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth (consistency of thin pancake batter).
  4. In another bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and 2 tablespoons of olive oil or melted butter. Mix until the panko is evenly moistened.
  5. Working in batches, dip a few florets into the batter, letting excess drip off, then transfer to the panko bowl. Toss to coat, pressing panko lightly onto the surface. Place on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with all florets.
  6. Arrange the breaded cauliflower in a single, even layer on the baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until deeply golden brown and firm.
  7. While the cauliflower bakes, make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the buffalo wing sauce, 2 tablespoons melted butter, and honey or maple syrup (if using).
  8. As soon as the cauliflower comes out of the oven, transfer the hot florets to a large bowl. Pour the buffalo sauce over the top and toss gently until evenly coated. Serve immediately.

Notes

For maximum crispiness, do not skip drying the cauliflower, do not overcrowd the pan, and bake at high heat. Toss in sauce immediately after baking. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: buffalo cauliflower, baked cauliflower, vegetarian wings, game day snack, healthy appetizer, crispy cauliflower

Find it online: https://spoonluma.com/crispy-baked-buffalo-cauliflower-easy-best-recipe/