Who else loves a good crispy, spicy snack? Today, I’m excited to share with you my favorite recipe for Baked Crispy Cauliflower Bites. These are perfect for game day, a family gathering, or when you’re craving buffalo wings without the chicken. Plus, they’re vegan, gluten-free, and made with simple ingredients. Let’s dive in!

________________________________________

Why You’ll Love These Baked Crispy Cauliflower Bites

• Crispy outside, tender inside
• Packed with flavor from homemade buffalo sauce
• Healthy, baked—not fried!
• Vegan and gluten-free options
• Everyone loves them, including meat lovers and children (especially mine)!
• Taste better than buffalo chicken wings!

________________________________________

My First Try with Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

I first made these on Super Bowl Sunday, hoping to impress my friends with a delicious appetizer. They disappeared in minutes! Even the meat lovers couldn’t get enough.

________________________________________

Ingredients for Baked Crispy Cauliflower Bites

• 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
• 1 cup chickpea flour (or whole wheat flour for non-gluten-free)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasonings
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (use gluten-free for GF version)
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 cup sriracha sauce or hot sauce
• 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (for extra heat)

________________________________________

Homemade Buffalo Sauce (Vegan Option)

• 1/2 cup hot sauce
• 2 tbsp vegan butter
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

Combine all ingredients in a small saucepan over low heat for 5 minutes.

________________________________________

Step-by-Step Baked Crispy Cauliflower Bites Recipe

1. Prep the Cauliflower:

• Cut the head of cauliflower into bite-sized pieces.
• Preheat the oven to 450°F (high heat).
• Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil.

2. Make the Batter:

• In a large bowl, mix chickpea flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and Italian seasonings.
• Add equal parts water and stir until smooth.

3. Coat the Cauliflower:

• Dip each piece of cauliflower in the batter, shaking off excess.
• Roll in panko mixture (panko breadcrumbs with a little olive oil, paprika, and salt).

4. Bake for Crispy Texture:

• Arrange in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 10-15 minutes, flip, and bake another 10 minutes until golden brown.

5. Toss in Buffalo Sauce:

• In a large bowl, toss the baked cauliflower with the homemade buffalo sauce.
• Bake for another 5 minutes to set the sauce.

________________________________________

Air Fryer Version

• Air fry at 400°F for 10-15 minutes, shaking halfway for even crispiness.

________________________________________

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Servings: 4

• Calories: 210
• Protein: 6g
• Carbs: 28g
• Fat: 8g
• Vitamin C: 85% DV

________________________________________

Serving Ideas for Baked Crispy Cauliflower Bites

• Pair with ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or your favorite hot sauce.
• Serve with celery sticks.
• Enjoy with a side of whole grains like brown rice.

Toppings and Add-Ons:

• Sprinkle with parmesan cheese or vegan alternative.
• Add a dash of red pepper flakes.

Leftovers?

• Store in the fridge and reheat in the oven the next day for best results.

________________________________________

FAQs

1. Can I make these Baked Crispy Cauliflower Bites without panko breadcrumbs?

 Yes, instead of panko, you can use crushed cornflakes or almond flour. They’ll be as delicious.

2. How to store leftovers? 

Honestly, whenever I make Baked Crispy Cauliflower Bites at home, they are all gone in minutes. But if you have to, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, preferably not more than one day. You just have to reheat them for 5 minutes at 400°F. But, trust me, they are best fresh out of the oven!

3. Can I freeze the Baked Crispy Cauliflower Bites? 

It is preferable to freeze the cauliflower florets and the prepared sauce separately. When ready to eat, just toss the cauliflower with the thawed sauce and bake in the oven.

4. What if I don’t have chickpea flour? 

If you don’t have or don’t want to use chickpea flour, no worries. You can use rice flour or whole wheat flour instead. 

5. Can I make the Baked Crispy Cauliflower Bites less spicy? 

If you don’t like spicy or need to bake for children, simply reduce or omit the cayenne and use mild hot sauce. They’ll be just as delicious without the heat.

________________________________________

Next time you crave buffalo wings, make these crispy cauliflower nuggets—your entire family will love them! Make sure to let me know how they turn out!

________________________________________

Printable Recipe Card

________________________________________

Explore similar recipes

• High-Protein Low-Carb Vegan Snacks: 30 Easy Recipes
• Jamaican Finger Foods – 75 Healthy & Tasty Recipes
• Plant-Based Cookbook