Buffalo Cauliflower Bites Recipe

 Buffalo Cauliflower Bites

Ingredients:

• For the Cauliflower:

  • 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
  • 1 cup water or milk (regular or plant-based)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional for added crunch)

• For the Buffalo Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup hot sauce (like Frank's RedHot)
  • 2 tbsp melted butter (or coconut oil for vegan option)
  • 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

• For Serving:

  • Ranch or blue cheese dressing (for dipping)
  • Celery and carrot sticks (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. Prepare the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, water (or milk), garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper until you have a smooth batter. If you're using breadcrumbs, set them aside in a separate shallow dish.

3. Coat the Cauliflower: Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring it's fully coated. If you want extra crunch, roll the batter-coated florets in breadcrumbs. Place the coated cauliflower florets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.

4. Bake the Cauliflower: Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning the cauliflower halfway through, until they are golden and slightly crispy.

5. Prepare the Buffalo Sauce: While the cauliflower is baking, mix together the hot sauce, melted butter (or coconut oil), honey (or maple syrup), and smoked paprika in a small bowl.

6. Coat with Buffalo Sauce: Once the cauliflower is done baking, remove it from the oven. Toss the baked cauliflower florets in the buffalo sauce, making sure they’re fully coated.

7. Bake Again: Place the sauced cauliflower back on the baking sheet and return to the oven. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cauliflower is crispy and the sauce is bubbling.

8. Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping, and celery and carrot sticks on the side.

Enjoy these spicy, flavorful Buffalo Cauliflower Bites as an appetizer, snack, or game-day treat!