Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe

Craving the tangy, fiery kick of Buffalo wings but want something delightfully veggie-forward? Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower is my go-to for crispy, saucy bites that make everyone — vegan, vegetarian, or meat-eater — swoon at first crunch. Every floret is golden and craveable, thanks to a simple batter and that signature Buffalo punch.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love about Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower is the way a handful of humble ingredients transforms into a plate of something truly special. Each one plays a role, building flavor, crunch, and that mouthwatering color that makes these bites irresistible.

• All-purpose flour: This forms the base of your batter, giving each floret its signature crispy shell.
• Cornstarch: The secret to extra-light, ultra-crunchy cauliflower — don’t skip it!
• Garlic powder: Adds warmth and depth, helping mimic classic wing flavor.
• Onion powder: Brings subtle savoriness, rounding out each bite.
• Paprika: Gives not only bold color but a gentle smoky note that makes the coating pop.
• Sea salt: Enhances all the savory flavors, tying the whole batter together.
• Water: Whisks up a smooth, velvety batter that clings just right.
• Cauliflower: The star! Go for a medium–large head, broken into chunky, satisfying florets.
• Buffalo sauce: For bold, tangy heat — choose your favorite for a custom spice level.
• Vegan ranch (optional): A perfect cooling partner for dipping, especially if you like it spicy!

Variations

One of the best things about Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower is how easy it is to tweak to your tastes or what you have on hand. Make it your own with these delicious spin-offs — whether you need it gluten-free, love extra heat, or want to change up the sauce for a different vibe.

• Gluten-Free Swap: Substitute a gluten-free all-purpose blend for the regular flour and make sure your Buffalo sauce is gluten-free.
• Extra Spicy: Choose a hotter Buffalo sauce, add a pinch of cayenne to your batter, or serve with hot sauce on the side.
• Different Sauces: Try tossing the air-fried cauliflower in BBQ, teriyaki, or even a sweet chili sauce for a fun flavor twist.
• Cheesy Finish: Sprinkle with nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan before air frying for a savory, umami punch.

How to Make Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower

Step 1: Whisk the Batter

Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F so it’s nice and hot when you add the cauliflower. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and sea salt. When the dry ingredients are blended, slowly pour in the water, whisking until the batter is smooth with no lumps. It should be thick enough to coat the cauliflower but still easily drip off a spoon.

Step 2: Coat the Cauliflower

Break your cauliflower into large, sturdy florets so each bite has plenty of surface for batter and crispiness. Add them all to the bowl and gently stir so every nook and cranny gets a generous coating — don’t be shy! The key is making sure each floret is well covered but not dripping with excess batter.

Step 3: Arrange in the Air Fryer

One by one, lift the battered florets out, shaking off the extra batter as you go. Arrange them in a single layer in your air fryer basket, leaving plenty of room around each for airflow and crispiness. Don’t overcrowd — if needed, work in batches to give each piece its moment to shine.

Step 4: Air Fry and Flip

Air fry for 9 minutes — you’ll see the batter puff and turn golden. Carefully open the basket (it will be hot!) and use a spatula to gently flip the florets. Brush the tops generously with Buffalo sauce, then return them to the air fryer for another 5 to 10 minutes, until they’re dark, crisp, and beautifully blistered.

Step 5: Sauce & Serve

While still hot, brush the finished cauliflower with additional Buffalo sauce for that signature, glossy look and maximum tang. If you’re feeling extra, serve with a side of cool, creamy vegan ranch for dipping — the contrast is seriously addictive!

How to Serve Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower

Garnishes

For a touch of color and fresh flavor, sprinkle your platter of Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower with chopped chives, parsley, or diced green onions. A dusting of vegan parmesan or a squeeze of lemon takes each bite over the top, and don’t forget a generous side of creamy vegan ranch or blue cheese dip!

Side Dishes

These bites are playing well with all your party favorites! I love pairing them with crisp celery and carrot sticks, a simple green salad, potato wedges, or even a plate of garlicky fries. They’re hearty enough to stand alone but just as welcome as a crowd-pleasing appetizer alongside pizza or burgers.

Creative Ways to Present

Try threading cauliflower bites on skewers for a fun party snack, tucking them inside tacos with avocado and slaw, or piling them on a platter surrounded by dipping sauces for a build-your-own snack board. Set out toothpicks for an easy finger food or toast small buns for Buffalo “slider” sandwiches — guaranteed to wow!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), let your Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days, making spicy snacking or next-day lunches a breeze.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked, cooled Buffalo cauliflower for longer-term storage. Spread the pieces on a baking sheet to flash-freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to a month. Keep in mind the texture won’t be quite as crisp after thawing, but they’re still delish!

Reheating

To recapture the best texture, reheat the cauliflower in your air fryer at 370°F for 5–7 minutes. They’ll re-crisp beautifully! The oven also works in a pinch, but try to avoid microwaving if you want to keep that coveted crunch.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you love a crave-able, crowd-pleasing snack with a zesty kick, Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower is about to earn a permanent spot in your kitchen rotation. They’re wildly delicious, secretly simple, and always a hit — don’t be surprised if you start making them on repeat!

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