Description
This air fryer buffalo cauliflower is a crispy, spicy, and healthier plant-based alternative to traditional buffalo wings. Coated in a seasoned batter, air-fried until golden, and tossed in tangy buffalo sauce, it’s the perfect snack or appetizer for any occasion.
Ingredients
1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
1/2 cup flour (all-purpose or gluten-free)
1/2 cup water
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 tablespoon vegan butter (optional, for richness)
Optional: chopped parsley or green onion for garnish
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt until smooth.
- Add the cauliflower florets and toss to coat evenly in the batter.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the cauliflower in a single layer in the air fryer basket, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Air fry for 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
- While the cauliflower cooks, heat the buffalo sauce and vegan butter together in a saucepan or microwave until well combined.
- Once the cauliflower is crisp and golden, toss it in the buffalo sauce until fully coated.
- Return the coated cauliflower to the air fryer and cook for an additional 5 minutes for an extra sticky, flavorful finish.
- Serve hot, garnished with parsley or green onion, and with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
Use chickpea or rice flour for a gluten-free version.
Add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the batter for extra crunch.
Serve with vegan ranch or blue cheese-style dip to balance the heat.
To make it a main dish, serve in wraps or over salads.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5–7 minutes for best texture.
Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
For oven method: bake at 425°F for 25–30 minutes, toss in sauce, then bake another 5–10 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
