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Air Fryer Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Bites with Vegan Ranch Dip

A plate piled high with crispy, golden-orange buffalo cauliflower florets served with a side of creamy dipping sauce.
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Make the ultimate crunchy, spicy appetizer with this easy Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Bites recipe. Serve these game day snacks with a cool, creamy vegan ranch dip for the perfect balance.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened plant milk (like almond or soy)
  • 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot Original Cayenne Pepper Sauce (or similar)
  • 1/4 cup melted vegan butter or olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • For the Vegan Ranch Dip: 1 cup vegan mayonnaise, 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cauliflower: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  2. Dip the florets: Pour the plant milk into a separate bowl. Dip each cauliflower floret first into the dry flour mixture, shaking off excess, then quickly dip it into the plant milk, letting excess drip off.
  3. Coat again: Immediately toss the milk-dipped florets back into the flour mixture to create a thick coating. Set aside on a plate.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (195°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
  5. Cook in batches: Arrange the coated cauliflower in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding.
  6. Make the buffalo sauce: While the cauliflower cooks, whisk together the hot sauce, melted vegan butter, and apple cider vinegar in a medium bowl.
  7. Toss the bites: Once the cauliflower is crispy, transfer the hot bites to the bowl with the buffalo sauce. Toss gently until all pieces are evenly coated.
  8. Prepare the dip: Combine all vegan ranch dip ingredients in a small bowl. Stir well until smooth.
  9. Serve immediately: Arrange the buffalo cauliflower bites on a platter and serve hot with the creamy vegan ranch dip.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness, you can lightly spray the coated florets with cooking spray before placing them in the air fryer.
  • If you prefer a baked version, arrange the coated florets on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • Serve with celery sticks and carrot sticks alongside the dip for a traditional pairing.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookincorner.com/crispy-buffalo-cauliflower-recipe/