Description
A spicy and crispy alternative to traditional buffalo wings, perfect for snacks or appetizers.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (or a gluten-free blend)
- 1/2 cup water (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 cup buffalo sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (optional)
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing (for serving, optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley or celery sticks (optional garnishes)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Gradually add in the water while whisking until you achieve a smooth batter that can coat the florets.
- Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, making sure to coat it completely. Shake off any excess.
- Arrange the coated cauliflower evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20 minutes, then carefully flip each piece using tongs or a spatula.
- In a separate bowl, melt the butter and mix it with the buffalo sauce. Adjust the heat to your liking by adding more or less sauce.
- Bake the flipped cauliflower for an additional 10 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Transfer the cauliflower to a large bowl and pour the buffalo sauce mixture over it, tossing gently to coat.
- Return the coated cauliflower to the baking sheet and bake for another 5-7 minutes to set the sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and optional ranch or blue cheese dressing with celery sticks on the side if desired.
Notes
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to regain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: buffalo cauliflower, vegetarian snack, healthy appetizer, game day food, crispy snack