Cauliflower buffalo wings are a fantastic alternative to traditional chicken wings, offering a healthy yet flavorful snack.

These crispy, spicy, and savory cauliflower bites are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a tasty meal. Coated in a crispy batter and smothered in a tangy buffalo sauce, they deliver the ideal balance of crunch and heat.

Let’s dive into the simple steps that will turn your cauliflower into a mouth-watering treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you get started, gather the following ingredients:

For the Cauliflower:
- 1 medium cauliflower head, cut into florets
- 2 cups of water
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Crispy Coating:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
For the Buffalo Sauce:
- ½ cup buffalo sauce
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste

How to Prepare the Cauliflower

Begin by preparing the cauliflower. Cut the cauliflower into even-sized florets. This ensures they cook evenly.
Bring a pot of water to a boil, and blanch the cauliflower florets for 3-4 minutes. This step helps soften the cauliflower and ensures the coating sticks properly.
Drain the cauliflower and set it aside to cool. It’s important that the florets are well-drained to prevent the batter from becoming too soggy.

Making the Crispy Coating

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Gradually add water to create a smooth batter. The consistency should be thick enough to coat the cauliflower evenly.
Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, making sure to coat it fully.
After dipping, roll the battered cauliflower florets in the breadcrumbs. Ensure they’re coated in breadcrumbs for a crispy texture when baked or fried.

How to Make the Buffalo Sauce

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Once the butter is melted, add the buffalo sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and salt. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for about 2-3 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend, giving the sauce a rich, tangy, and spicy profile.
Once the sauce is ready, set it aside to cool slightly before using.

Combining the Cauliflower Bites and Buffalo Sauce

Once your cauliflower bites are perfectly coated and crispy, it’s time to bring everything together with the buffalo sauce.

Bake or Fry the Cauliflower Bites: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the coated cauliflower bites for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness. Alternatively, you can fry them in hot oil for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Toss the Bites in Buffalo Sauce: Once the cauliflower bites are crispy and cooked through, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Pour the buffalo sauce over the cauliflower and toss gently to coat each piece evenly in the sauce. Be careful not to break the florets.
Serve Immediately: Once tossed in the sauce, the cauliflower is ready to serve. For extra flavor, you can drizzle a little more buffalo sauce on top before serving.

How to Serve Crispy Keto Buffalo Cauliflower Bites

These buffalo cauliflower bites are versatile and perfect for a variety of occasions. Here are some great ways to serve them:

With Dipping Sauces: Serve the cauliflower bites with a side of creamy ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing for a classic flavor pairing. A simple avocado-lime dip also works wonderfully with the heat of the buffalo sauce.
As an Appetizer or Snack: These crispy cauliflower bites are perfect for a party platter or as an appetizer before a meal. Pair them with your favorite keto-friendly sides for a complete snack.
On a Salad: Add a little crunch to your salads by tossing the buffalo cauliflower bites on top. They’ll bring both heat and texture to your dish.
Garnish for Extra Flavor: For an added touch, garnish the cauliflower bites with fresh parsley, cilantro, or a squeeze of lime for a burst of freshness that complements the spiciness of the buffalo sauce.

Tips for Making the Best Buffalo Cauliflower Bites

To ensure your buffalo cauliflower bites are perfectly crispy, flavorful, and satisfying, here are some helpful tips:

Dry the Cauliflower Well: After blanching or washing the cauliflower, make sure to thoroughly dry the florets. Excess moisture can cause the batter and breadcrumbs to slide off, preventing the cauliflower from getting crispy.
Use Panko Breadcrumbs: For an extra crispy coating, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs create a light, airy texture that adds crunch to every bite.
Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Tray: When baking, ensure that the cauliflower pieces aren’t overcrowded on the tray. If they’re too close together, they will steam instead of becoming crispy.
Adjust the Spiciness: If you prefer a milder buffalo sauce, reduce the amount of hot sauce in the recipe. Alternatively, add a bit more for an extra kick of heat.
Make Ahead and Store: If you’re preparing these bites ahead of time, store the battered and breadcrumb-coated cauliflower in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just bake or fry them when you’re ready to serve. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days, though they are best enjoyed fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen cauliflower?
- Yes, frozen cauliflower works well, but be sure to thaw and drain it completely before using. Pat it dry to remove excess moisture before coating and baking.
How can I make these cauliflower bites spicier?
- To increase the heat, add extra hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the buffalo sauce. You can also sprinkle some chili flakes on top after baking for an added kick.
Can I use a different flour for the batter?
- Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour to make the recipe keto-friendly and gluten-free. Just be mindful that the texture might slightly differ.
Can I air-fry the cauliflower instead of baking or frying?
- Absolutely! Air-frying is a great option for making these bites crispier with less oil. Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can I make these cauliflower bites vegan?
- Yes, simply substitute the butter in the buffalo sauce with a plant-based butter, and ensure the batter and breadcrumbs are dairy-free.

Final Thoughts

Crispy buffalo cauliflower bites are a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s both healthy and indulgent. With the perfect balance of spicy buffalo sauce and crispy coating, they’re a crowd-pleasing snack that’s great for any occasion. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, these cauliflower bites are sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy experimenting with the variations and have fun making these crispy, keto-friendly bites that everyone will love!