Go Back
AIR FRYER BUFFALO CAULIFLOWER centered hero view, clean and uncluttered
Joe Rooney

Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower: Easy Delicious Recipe

Discover the perfect plant-based snack with this Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower recipe. Combining the crispy texture you expect from buffalo wings and a bold spicy flavor, this Buffalo Cauliflower Air Fryer dish is both easy and quick to make. Ideal for appetizers, snacks, or sides, it offers all the flavor without the meat.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 180
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 medium head of cauliflower - cut into bite-sized florets
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 3/4 cup buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter - melted
  • Cooking spray

Method
 

  1. Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets, ensuring they are uniform in size for even cooking.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth. The batter should be thick enough to coat the cauliflower but still pourable.
  3. Add the cauliflower florets to the batter, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Shake off any excess batter before placing them in the air fryer.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
  5. Place the battered cauliflower florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. You may need to cook them in batches.
  6. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking, until the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy.
  7. While the cauliflower is cooking, mix the buffalo sauce with the melted butter in a small bowl.
  8. Once the cauliflower is done, place it in a large bowl. Pour the buffalo sauce over the cauliflower and toss until each floret is evenly coated.
  9. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or blue cheese, and some celery sticks on the side.

Notes

  • Cauliflower Size: Cut the cauliflower into similar-sized florets for even cooking. Buffalo Sauce: Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to your spice preference; mix with extra butter for milder flavor. Crispiness: For extra crispiness, air fry coated cauliflower for 2-3 minutes more before tossing in sauce. Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 2 days and reheat in the air fryer to maintain crispiness. Serving Suggestion: Pairs well with ranch or blue cheese dips and celery sticks.