Why You’ll Love This
Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are a crispy, flavorful, and healthier twist on classic buffalo wings. These bite-sized cauliflower florets are coated in a light batter, air-fried until golden and crispy, then tossed in a spicy buffalo sauce. They’re perfect as a snack, appetizer, or game-day treat, and they’re completely vegetarian while still delivering that bold, tangy buffalo flavor everyone loves.
Ingredients
● 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
● ¾ cup all-purpose flour
● ¾ cup water or milk
● 1 teaspoon garlic powder
● 1 teaspoon onion powder
● ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
● ½ teaspoon salt
● ¼ teaspoon black pepper
● 1 cup buffalo sauce
● 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional, for richer flavor)
● Cooking spray
Optional for serving:
● Ranch or blue cheese dressing
● Celery sticks
● Carrot sticks
Preparation Instructions
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Prepare the cauliflower
Wash and cut the cauliflower into evenly sized bite-sized florets. -
Make the batter
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, water (or milk), garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth. -
Coat the cauliflower
Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring it is fully coated. Let excess batter drip off. -
Preheat the air fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes. -
Air fry the cauliflower
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the battered cauliflower in a single layer in the basket. Cook for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until crispy and lightly golden. -
Prepare the buffalo sauce
In a bowl, mix the buffalo sauce with melted butter if using. -
Toss in buffalo sauce
Remove the cooked cauliflower and toss it gently in the buffalo sauce mixture until evenly coated. -
Air fry again
Return the coated cauliflower to the air fryer and cook for an additional 3–5 minutes to set the sauce and crisp them slightly. -
Serve immediately
Serve hot with ranch or blue cheese dressing, celery sticks, and carrot sticks.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
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Air fryer
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Mixing bowls
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Whisk
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Tongs or fork
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Knife and cutting board
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Measuring cups and spoons
Tips
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Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket, as this can prevent the cauliflower from becoming crispy. Cook in batches if needed.
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For extra crispiness, add 2 tablespoons of cornstarch to the batter.
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Make them gluten-free by using gluten-free flour or chickpea flour.
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Adjust the heat level by using mild or extra-hot buffalo sauce.
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For a thicker coating, double-dip the cauliflower in batter before air frying.
Serving Suggestions
Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Wings pair well with:
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Ranch or blue cheese dipping sauce
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Fresh celery and carrot sticks
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A side of coleslaw
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Wraps or tacos
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As a topping for salads or grain bowls
They’re also perfect as a party appetizer or game-day snack.
Storage
Refrigerator:
Store leftover cauliflower wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezer:
Freezing is not recommended as the cauliflower may lose its crisp texture.
Reheating:
Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 4–5 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
FAQs
1. Can I make these in the oven instead of an air fryer?
Yes. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
2. Can I make these vegan?
Yes. Simply use plant-based butter or skip the butter entirely.
3. How do I keep them crispy?
Serve them immediately after cooking and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are a delicious, crispy, and healthier alternative to traditional wings. With bold buffalo flavor, a satisfying crunch, and simple ingredients, they’re perfect for appetizers, snacks, or even a fun meatless meal. Once you try them, they’ll likely become a go-to recipe for gatherings and quick cravings.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
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Calories: 180 kcal
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Protein: 5 g
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Carbohydrates: 22 g
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Fat: 8 g
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Saturated Fat: 2 g
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Fiber: 4 g
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Sugar: 3 g
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Sodium: 520 mg
