Description
How to make crispy Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower with tender florets and spicy buffalo sauce that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
- Crispy Cauliflower Base:
- 1 large head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or other plant-based milk)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Tangy Buffalo Sauce:
- 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot Original Hot Sauce
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (or vegan butter)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup (or agave nectar)
- Essential Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- Finishing Touches:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing, for serving
Instructions
- Prep Cauliflower: Cut cauliflower into bite-sized florets. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This creates the crispy coating base for your Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower.
- Make Batter: Gradually whisk in almond milk and olive oil into the dry mixture until a smooth, thick batter forms. Ensure there are no lumps for an even coating. This liquid base will help achieve a golden crunch.
- Coat Florets: Add the cauliflower florets to the batter, tossing gently to ensure each piece is fully coated. Don’t overcrowd the bowl; work in batches if necessary for thorough coverage. This step is key for crispiness.
- Air Fry: Arrange coated florets in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy. This cooks the Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower perfectly.
- Make Sauce: While cauliflower cooks, gently melt butter in a small saucepan. Whisk in Frank’s RedHot, apple cider vinegar, and maple syrup until well combined and warm. This tangy buffalo sauce is essential.
- Sauce Cauliflower: Transfer crispy cauliflower to a large bowl. Pour the warm buffalo sauce over the florets, tossing gently until every piece is evenly coated. You’re almost ready for delicious Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower!
- Garnish & Serve: Garnish your finished Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately with a side of vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. Enjoy this ultimate crispy and flavorful appetizer while warm!
Notes
Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket; this is crucial for achieving truly crispy cauliflower florets.
Store leftover buffalo cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the batter.
Serve immediately after saucing with vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing for the best crispy texture.
**Allergy Information:** Dairy, Gluten, Tree Nuts