Buffalo Cauliflower bites

If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying snack that packs a punch, look no further than Buffalo Cauliflower bites. These crispy, spicy bites of cauliflower are perfect for game day, movie night, or whenever you want to indulge without the guilt. Coated in a light batter and tossed in a flavorful mild buffalo wing sauce, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone. Plus, they’re surprisingly simple to make and a great way to incorporate more veggies into your diet. So, let’s dive right into this amazing recipe!

Top Reasons to Make Buffalo Cauliflower bites

• Healthier Alternative: Buffalo Cauliflower bites offer a lighter option compared to traditional buffalo wings, making them a great choice for those looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few ingredients, you can whip up these bites in no time, perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
• Versatile Flavor: You can adjust the spice level to suit your taste, whether you prefer a mild kick or a fiery punch.
• Perfect for Parties: These bites are a crowd-pleaser and make a fantastic appetizer for gatherings or casual get-togethers.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: They’re a tasty option for vegetarians and anyone looking to reduce their meat intake.

What to Buy

• Olive oil cooking spray: This will help achieve that perfect crispiness without using too much oil.
• 1 cup milk: Use any milk of your choice; almond milk works well if you prefer a dairy-free option.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: This is the base for your batter, giving the cauliflower a nice coating.
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Adds a wonderful depth of flavor to your bites.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste.
• 1 1/2 cups Panko: This crispy breadcrumb will give your bites an irresistible crunch.
• 2 heads cauliflower: Choose fresh, firm heads for the best texture.
• 1 cup mild buffalo wing sauce: Adjust the brand and heat level to suit your preference.

Cook’s Kit

• Baking sheet: A large one is essential for spreading out the cauliflower evenly.
• Mixing bowls: You’ll need a couple for mixing the batter and coating the cauliflower.
• Whisk: Perfect for combining the flour, milk, and garlic powder smoothly.
• Spatula: Use this for flipping and tossing the cauliflower bites to ensure even coating.
• Oven mitts: Protect your hands when handling the hot baking sheet!

Buffalo Cauliflower bites: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). This high heat will ensure that your Buffalo Cauliflower bites get crispy and golden.

Step 2: Prepare the Cauliflower

Cut the cauliflower heads into bite-sized florets. Make sure they are of uniform size for even cooking.

Step 3: Make the Batter

In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of milk, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste until smooth.

Step 4: Coat the Cauliflower

Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring it’s well-coated. Shake off any excess batter and transfer to a plate.

Step 5: Panko Coating

Place the Panko bread crumbs in a separate bowl. Take each battered cauliflower piece and roll it in the Panko until fully covered. This will provide that delightful crunch.

Step 6: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Spray a baking sheet generously with olive oil cooking spray. Arrange the coated cauliflower bites on the sheet in a single layer, ensuring they aren’t crowded.

Step 7: Bake

Bake the cauliflower bites in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

Step 8: Toss in Buffalo Sauce

Once baked, remove the cauliflower from the oven and place them in a large mixing bowl. Pour the mild buffalo wing sauce over the hot cauliflower and toss gently to coat each piece.

Step 9: Serve

Return the sauced cauliflower to the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10 minutes to set the sauce. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or blue cheese.

In-Season Flavor Ideas

• Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a burst of color and flavor.
• Serve with celery sticks and carrot sticks for a classic pairing.
• Drizzle with a bit of honey or maple syrup for a sweet contrast to the spicy sauce.
• Experiment with different sauces, like BBQ or teriyaki, for a unique twist.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

To achieve the crispiest Buffalo Cauliflower bites, ensure that your oven is fully preheated before baking. Additionally, spraying the baking sheet and the tops of the bites with olive oil cooking spray will help them crisp up nicely. Don’t skip the tossing step after baking; it’s key to getting the sauce evenly distributed.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

You can prepare the battered and Panko-coated cauliflower in advance. Simply store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook, just pop them in the oven as directed! This makes it perfect for entertaining or meal prepping.

Handy Q&A

Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

While fresh cauliflower is recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen cauliflower. Just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before coating and baking.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover Buffalo Cauliflower bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

Can I make these in an air fryer?

Yes! Air frying is a great option. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and air fry the coated cauliflower for about 15-20 minutes, shaking halfway through for even cooking.

What can I serve with Buffalo Cauliflower bites?

These bites pair wonderfully with a variety of dips like ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or even a creamy avocado dip for a fresh twist.

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• Sally’s Baking Addiction
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Before You Go

These Buffalo Cauliflower bites are not just a dish; they are an experience. The combination of crunch, spice, and the thrill of dipping makes them an irresistible snack or appetizer. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to treat yourself to something delicious, these bites are sure to impress. Don’t forget to experiment with different sauces and dips to find your perfect flavor combination. Enjoy your cooking and happy snacking!

Buffalo Cauliflower bites

These Buffalo Cauliflower bites are a crispy, spicy delight! Perfect for game day or movie night, they're a healthier snack option.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Bites:

• 2 heads Cauliflower cut into bite-sized florets
• 1 cup Milk any type, almond milk for dairy-free
• 1 cup All-purpose flour for batter
• 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
• to taste Salt and pepper
• 1 1/2 cups Panko breadcrumbs for coating
• 1 cup Mild buffalo wing sauce adjust brand and heat level

For Cooking:

Equipment

• Baking Sheet
• Mixing Bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Oven mitts

Method

 

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. Step 2: Cut the cauliflower heads into bite-sized florets.
3. Step 3: In a mixing bowl, whisk together milk, flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Step 4: Dip each floret in the batter, ensuring it's well-coated.
5. Step 5: Roll the battered cauliflower in Panko breadcrumbs until fully covered.
6. Step 6: Spray a baking sheet with olive oil and arrange the coated cauliflower in a single layer.
7. Step 7: Bake for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
8. Step 8: Toss the baked cauliflower in buffalo sauce in a bowl.
9. Step 9: Return to the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10 minutes.

Notes

• Ensure the oven is fully preheated for the crispiest bites.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Try air frying at 400°F for a healthier option!