Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower

This Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower brings genuine game day flavor with a fraction of the guilt. Bite-sized cauliflower florets are coated in a spiced batter then air fried until perfectly crisp and tossed in a bold buffalo sauce. When I need a quick appetizer or something fun for snacking that satisfies everyone including my vegetarian friends I always come back to this easy crowd-pleaser.

I tried this for the first time at a family movie night and it was such a hit my kids ask for it whenever we want something fun for dinner or have friends over.

Ingredients

• Cauliflower florets: Use a fresh head of cauliflower for best crunch, select one that is pale with no brown or soft patches
• All-purpose flour: Creates a light airy crunch in the batter; you can swap for gluten free blend if needed
• Water: For thinning the batter; filtered is best for smooth consistency
• Garlic powder and onion powder: Both boost the savory flavors and mimic wing sauce notes
• Paprika: Adds color and a little warm depth; try smoked paprika for complexity
• Salt and black pepper: Balance and highlight every other ingredient
• Hot sauce: I like Frank’s RedHot for classic buffalo flavor but use your favorite with a medium heat level
• Unsalted butter: Brings rich flavor to the buffalo sauce but use melted vegan butter for dairy free
• Honey: Softens sharp heat with a hint of sweetness; totally optional
• Celery sticks: Add crunch and coolness to balance the heat
• Blue cheese or ranch dressing: Brings creamy tang for dipping; use dairy free if you prefer

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Cauliflower:

Cut the cauliflower into even bite sized florets so they cook evenly and are easy to eat

Mix the Batter:

Whisk the flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until very smooth so the batter clings to every floret

Coat the Cauliflower:

Toss florets in the batter making sure every surface is covered for maximum crispiness

Arrange in Air Fryer:

Spray the fryer basket lightly with oil then place the battered florets in a single layer so the hot air circulates around each piece

Air Fry the Cauliflower:

Cook at four hundred degrees for twelve to fifteen minutes, shaking the basket halfway to get all sides evenly golden and crisp

Mix Buffalo Sauce:

While the cauliflower cooks, combine your hot sauce, melted butter, and honey till fully blended

Toss and Sauce:

Move the cooked cauliflower to a clean bowl and pour buffalo sauce over it, tossing until every bit is coated in spicy, glossy sauce

Finish in the Air Fryer:

Return the sauced florets to the air fryer for a final three to five minutes to lock in crispiness and help the sauce set

Serve and Enjoy:

Serve hot with lots of crunchy celery sticks and your favorite blue cheese or ranch for dipping

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My favorite thing is the moment the sauce hits the hot crispy florets and that buffalo aroma fills the kitchen; it always reminds me of tailgates and Sunday afternoons cheering on family. Cauliflower can take on so many flavors and this recipe proves it can be the star at any get together.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep two to three days. To reheat toss them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to revive their crispiness. Avoid the microwave if you want them to stay crunchy.

Ingredient Substitutions

Gluten free flour blends work well in place of all purpose. For a dairy free spin use plant based butter and a vegan ranch or blue cheese dip. You can skip honey if you prefer or try a spoonful of maple syrup for a different flavor note.

Serving Suggestions

Serve as a crowd pleasing appetizer for parties or game days. They also make a fun side dish with burgers or a fresh salad. I love piling these into wraps with lettuce and extra buffalo sauce for a satisfying lunch.

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A Bit of Buffalo History

Buffalo sauce was first made famous in Buffalo, New York as a wing coating but its tangy spicy punch tastes good on just about anything. Swapping in cauliflower is a tasty trick that lets everyone at the table join the fun.

Common Questions

→ How do I keep the cauliflower crisp in the air fryer?

Arrange florets in a single layer and avoid overcrowding. Shake the basket halfway through and finish with an extra blast to set the sauce.

→ Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to suit your dietary preferences.

→ What’s the best sauce for dipping?

Blue cheese or ranch dressing pairs well for classic flavor. For vegan versions, choose dairy-free options.

→ How spicy is the buffalo cauliflower?

Spiciness depends on your hot sauce and preference. Reduce or increase hot sauce to suit your taste buds.

→ What are good side pairings?

Celery sticks, carrot sticks, and crisp salads complement the bold flavors of the buffalo cauliflower.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain crunch.