Description
Crispy, spicy, and completely addictive, this Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower is a lighter, plant-based take on classic buffalo wings. Cauliflower florets are air-fried until golden and crunchy, then tossed in a tangy buffalo sauce that brings the heat. It’s the perfect guilt-free snack, party appetizer, or meatless Monday side dish—ready in under 30 minutes!
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Ingredients
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1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
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¾ cup all-purpose flour
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¾ cup water
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1 tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp onion powder
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½ tsp paprika
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¼ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
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⅔ cup buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
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1 tbsp melted butter or olive oil
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Optional: chopped parsley or green onions for garnish
For Serving (Optional):
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Celery sticks
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Carrot sticks
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Ranch or blue cheese dressing (or dairy-free alternatives)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
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Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
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Spray the basket lightly with non-stick cooking spray.
Step 2: Make the Batter
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In a large bowl, whisk together flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
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Add the cauliflower florets and toss to coat evenly.
Step 3: Air Fry the Cauliflower
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Using tongs, shake off excess batter and place cauliflower in a single layer in the air fryer basket (work in batches if needed).
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Air fry for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Step 4: Toss in Buffalo Sauce
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In a small bowl, mix the buffalo sauce with melted butter or oil.
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Once cauliflower is cooked, transfer to a clean bowl and toss gently in the sauce until well coated.
Step 5: Crisp It Again (Optional)
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Return the sauced cauliflower to the air fryer for an additional 2–3 minutes to set the sauce and enhance the crispiness.
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Remove and let cool slightly before serving.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
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Serve warm with celery, carrots, and your favorite dipping sauce.
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Garnish with parsley or green onions for a pop of freshness.
Notes
Don’t Overcrowd – Give the florets space to crisp up properly.
Shake It Up – Flip or shake the basket halfway through cooking for even results.
Sauce Last – Toss the cauliflower in buffalo sauce after air frying to keep it crispy.
Serve Immediately – Best when hot and fresh from the fryer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American