Crispy & Spicy Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe

Looking for a healthier way to satisfy your buffalo wing cravings? This Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower recipe is spicy, crispy, and absolutely addictive — all without the guilt! Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just want a delicious meatless snack, this one's a winner. 🌶️🥦

Let’s be real — cauliflower is having a major moment, and it’s not going anywhere. But the air fryer takes it to a whole new level! This recipe gives you those classic buffalo flavors with way less oil and way more crunch. Perfect as a party snack, game day appetizer, or even as a spicy side dish for dinner.

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🔥 Hot Tip: You can adjust the heat level depending on your preference! Mild, medium, or blazing hot — just tweak the buffalo sauce to your liking.

Ingredients You’ll Need 📝

1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 cup water (or unsweetened almond milk for a vegan version)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for extra crispiness)
1/2 to 3/4 cup buffalo hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
1 tbsp melted butter or vegan butter

Step-by-Step Instructions 🧑‍🍳

Make the batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, water (or plant milk), garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Coat the cauliflower: Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and mix until each piece is well coated in the batter.
Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) and let it heat up for 3-5 minutes.
Air fry in batches: Place the battered cauliflower into the air fryer basket in a single layer (don’t overcrowd). Spray lightly with olive oil for extra crispiness. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Toss in buffalo sauce: While the cauliflower cooks, mix the buffalo sauce and melted butter in a large bowl. Once the cauliflower is done, toss it in the sauce until fully coated.
Return to air fryer (optional): For extra saucy, sticky cauliflower, return it to the air fryer for another 2-3 minutes after tossing in the sauce.

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Serving Suggestions 🍽️

This spicy buffalo cauliflower tastes amazing all on its own, but here are some serving ideas to take it up a notch:

Dip in vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing
Serve in lettuce wraps for a low-carb meal
Add to tacos or wraps with slaw and avocado
Use as a meatless topping for pizza or nachos
Serve as a side with burgers, sandwiches, or salads

🌿 Plant-Based Bonus: Make the entire recipe vegan by using almond milk and plant-based butter. It's still super creamy and flavorful — no one will even miss the dairy!

Why You'll Love This Recipe 💖

This isn’t just any air fryer snack — it’s a flavor-packed experience! Here’s why it’s worth making again and again:

Healthy alternative to buffalo wings — fewer calories and zero meat
Quick & easy — ready in under 30 minutes
Versatile — perfect as a snack, appetizer, or meatless main
Crowd-pleaser — even meat-eaters will love it!
Customizable — adjust the spice level, toppings, and dip

Storage & Reheating Tips 🧊🔥

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to store and reheat your buffalo cauliflower so it stays tasty:

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Reheat: Pop it back in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to get the crisp back
Avoid the microwave: It makes them soggy. Air fryer or oven is best!

Make It Your Own 🛠️

Once you’ve nailed the basic recipe, try switching things up:

Sweet & Spicy: Add a drizzle of maple syrup to the buffalo sauce
Extra Smoky: Use chipotle powder or smoked hot sauce
BBQ Twist: Swap out the buffalo sauce for your favorite barbecue sauce
Asian-Inspired: Use gochujang or sriracha mixed with soy sauce and sesame oil

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Ready to Get Crispy?

With just a handful of ingredients and your trusty air fryer, you’re just minutes away from the ultimate spicy, crunchy, and addictive cauliflower snack. Who needs wings when you’ve got this?

Try it today and thank us later! 🥳🔥

💬 Final Thought: Whether you're making it for a party, a weeknight dinner, or just a solo Netflix binge, this Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower will never disappoint. Give it a go — and don’t forget the dip! 😉

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