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Baked Crispy Cauliflower Bites

Baked Crispy Cauliflower Bites (Vegan Buffalo Recipe)

These Baked Crispy Cauliflower Bites are a delicious vegan twist on buffalo wings! Coated in a seasoned panko mixture and baked until golden brown, they’re crispy on the outside and tender inside. Tossed in a spicy homemade buffalo sauce and served with ranch or blue cheese dressing, they make the perfect game day appetizer or side dish. Plus, they’re easy to make gluten-free! Enjoy them fresh from the oven. Simple, flavorful, and sure to please the entire family!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 210 kcal

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Whisk
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Small saucepan
  • Tongs
  • Oven

Ingredients
  

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

Instructions
 

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

For the Homemade Buffalo Sauce (Vegan Option)

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

Notes

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

Nutrition

Calories: 210kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 6gFat: 8gVitamin C: 76mg
Keyword battered cauliflower, buffalo cauliflower wings, buffalo wings, cauliflower florets, crispy baked cauliflower bites, crispy cauliflower bites, crispy cauliflower nuggets, delicious appetizer, homemade buffalo sauce, italian seasonings, spicy buffalo cauliflower bites, spicy sauce, sriracha sauce
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