Go Back
Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe

Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower

Melena
Enjoy all the flavor and crunch of buffalo wings without the guilt! This Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower recipe delivers crispy, tender florets coated in a spicy, tangy buffalo sauce. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or light meal, it’s healthy, quick, and packed with vegetables—making indulgence guilt-free and fun.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • Cauliflower:
  • 1 medium head cauliflower cut into bite-sized florets
  • Batter:
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose or gluten-free flour
  • 1/2 cup water or plant-based milk
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • Buffalo Sauce:
  • 1/4 cup hot sauce like Frank’s RedHot
  • 2 tbsp melted butter or vegan butter
  • Optional: dash of honey or maple syrup
  • Optional Toppings / Dips:
  • Ranch or blue cheese dressing regular or vegan
  • Fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Prep Cauliflower:
  • Wash and cut cauliflower into florets.
  • Pat dry with a paper towel.
  • Make Batter:
  • Mix flour, water or milk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  • Coat each floret evenly in the batter.
  • Air Fry:
  • Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  • Place florets in a single layer; avoid overcrowding.
  • Air fry for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway.
  • Toss in Sauce:
  • Mix hot sauce and melted butter.
  • Toss cooked cauliflower in sauce.
  • Optional: return to air fryer 2–3 min for extra crispiness.
  • Serve:
  • Garnish with parsley or chives.
  • Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing and celery/carrot sticks.

Notes

  • Spray cauliflower lightly with oil for extra crunch.
  • Keep florets dry before battering to avoid sogginess.
  • Cook in batches for even crispiness.
  • Adjust heat by modifying hot sauce or adding cayenne.