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A plate of crispy, golden Buffalo cauliflower bites coated in a spicy, tangy sauce, served with a side of creamy ranch dressing, fresh celery, and carrot sticks. The vibrant red-orange glaze glistens under the light, highlighting the crunchy texture of the baked cauliflower. A rustic wooden table and a blurred cozy kitchen background add warmth to the scene.

Buffalo Cauliflower: A Bold and Healthy Alternative to Wings

Buffalo Cauliflower is the perfect vegetarian alternative to Buffalo wings. Crispy, spicy, and packed with flavor, this dish delivers the same bold taste without the guilt. It’s easy to prepare, gluten-free adaptable, and can be served as a snack, appetizer, or main course. Whether you're meal prepping, hosting a party, or just craving something delicious, this recipe is sure to impress!
5 from 1 vote
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
5 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 peoples
Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

  • Oven (for baking)
  • Mixing Bowls (for batter and Buffalo sauce)
  • Whisk (to mix the batter smoothly)
  • Baking Sheet (lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup)
  • Tongs (for dipping and flipping the cauliflower)
  • Measuring Cups & Spoons (for precise ingredient portions)

Ingredients
  

For the Cauliflower

  • 1 large Head of cauliflower (cut into florets)
  • 1 cup All-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
  • 1 cup Unsweetened plant-based milk (or regular milk)
  • 1 tsp Garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp Salt
  • ½ tsp Black pepper

For the Buffalo Sauce

  • ½ cup Hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot)
  • 2 tbsp Melted vegan butter (or regular butter)
  • 1 tbsp Apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp Maple syrup (or honey for non-vegan)

Serving

  • Ranch or blue cheese dressing (vegan options available)
  • Fresh celery sticks
  • Carrot sticks

Instructions
 

  • Preheat and Prep: Heat oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Cut cauliflower into bite-sized florets.
    A close-up of hands cutting a fresh head of cauliflower into florets on a clean kitchen counter
  • Make the Batter: Whisk flour, plant-based milk, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Coat each floret with batter, shaking off excess.
    A bowl of smooth, golden batter with a whisk resting on the side, next to cauliflower florets ready for dipping.
  • Bake the Cauliflower: Arrange coated florets on the baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
    A baking sheet filled with golden, crispy cauliflower florets fresh out of the oven.
  • Prepare the Buffalo Sauce: Mix hot sauce, melted butter, apple cider vinegar, and maple syrup. Toss baked cauliflower in the sauce.
    A large mixing bowl filled with Buffalo sauce-coated cauliflower florets, with sauce dripping down the sides.
  • Bake Again: Return sauced cauliflower to the baking sheet and bake for another 10 minutes.
    Bake Again
  • Serve and Enjoy: Let cool for 5 minutes, then serve with celery, carrot sticks, and dressing.
    A beautifully arranged platter of Buffalo Cauliflower with celery sticks, carrot sticks, and a drizzle of ranch dressing, ready to serve.

Video

Keyword Buffalo Cauliflower