Buffalo Cauliflower Bites from Buffalo Exchange feature tender cauliflower florets tossed in spicy buffalo sauce, coated with a crispy golden batter, and served with a cooling ranch dip, delivering a flavorful and crunchy plant-based snack.
Equipments
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheet or tray
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Oven or air fryer
- Small serving bowl (for ranch dip)
- Cutting board
- Knife
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for roasting)
- 1 cup ranch dressing (for serving)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Ensure your cauliflower florets are cut into uniform, bite-sized pieces for even cooking and a consistent crispy texture. Use all-purpose flour mixed with water and spices like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to create a smooth batter that will coat the cauliflower evenly. Toss the coated florets in buffalo sauce thoroughly to deliver that signature spicy flavor, and consider using olive oil if roasting for an extra crispy finish. Serve with a cool ranch dressing to balance the heat and fresh parsley for a vibrant garnish. Your Buffalo Cauliflower Bites from Buffalo Exchange copycat will bring a flavorful and crunchy plant-based twist to any snack time.
Instructions
- Preheat oven or air fryer to 425°F (220°C).
- Line baking sheet with parchment paper (optional).
- Cut cauliflower into bite-sized florets using knife and cutting board.
- In mixing bowl, whisk together flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to form batter.
- Dip cauliflower florets into batter, coating thoroughly.
- Arrange battered florets on prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle or brush with olive oil (optional).
- Bake or air fry for 20–25 minutes until golden and crispy, flipping halfway through.
- In a clean mixing bowl, toss baked cauliflower with buffalo sauce using tongs.
- Return florets to baking sheet and bake/air fry for an additional 8–10 minutes.
- Transfer finished buffalo cauliflower bites to serving platter.
- Serve with ranch dressing in a small bowl.
- Garnish with fresh parsley (optional).
Substitution
Buffalo Cauliflower Bites from Buffalo Exchange copycat menu capture the perfect balance of spicy buffalo sauce and crispy batter coating tender cauliflower florets. You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or chickpea flour for a gluten-free version, maintaining the crispy texture. If buffalo sauce is too spicy, mixing it with a bit of melted vegan butter or honey can mellow the heat while preserving flavor. For a healthier alternative, opt for air frying instead of baking with olive oil to reduce oil usage without sacrificing crunchiness. Ranch dip can be swapped with a dairy-free or cashew-based dressing to accommodate dietary preferences and still complement the bites perfectly.
Tips
Make sure to preheat your oven or air fryer to 425degF (220degC) before starting the cooking process to ensure even crispiness. When mixing the batter, whisk thoroughly to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth coating for the cauliflower florets. Use tongs to toss the baked florets with buffalo sauce evenly, so the flavor is distributed on every bite. For your best results, flip the florets halfway through baking to promote even cooking and crisping.
Nutritions
Buffalo Cauliflower Bites provide a nutritious alternative to traditional buffalo wings, offering the benefits of cauliflower, which is high in fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants. The batter, made from all-purpose flour and spices, adds carbohydrates and a modest amount of protein, while the buffalo sauce contributes a spicy kick with minimal calories. Using olive oil for roasting introduces healthy monounsaturated fats that support heart health. Your choice to dip these bites in ranch dressing adds creaminess and calories, so consider portion control to balance flavor with nutritional intake.
Storage
Store leftover Buffalo Cauliflower Bites in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days to maintain crispiness and flavor. Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 375degF (190degC) for 5-7 minutes to restore their crunchy texture and spicy buffalo sauce coating. Your bites will stay delicious and ready for a quick snack or meal addition this way.
Variation or Alternatives
You can elevate the crispiness by substituting the all-purpose flour with chickpea flour, which adds a subtle nutty flavor and improves texture. For a milder heat, mix buffalo sauce with a bit of honey or maple syrup to balance the spice. Instead of baking, air frying at 400degF for 15 minutes can yield extra crisp bites with less oil. Consider swapping ranch dip with a cooling blue cheese dressing or a vegan alternative to suit your dietary preferences.
Allergies
Buffalo Cauliflower Bites contain common allergens such as wheat in the all-purpose flour, which may trigger gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. Ranch dressing often includes dairy and eggs, which can cause reactions in those with lactose intolerance or egg allergies. Be sure to check the buffalo sauce ingredients for any hidden allergens, as sauces sometimes contain soy or other additives that might affect your dietary needs.
Why this recipe?
Buffalo Exchange's C. Buffalo Cauliflower Bites are popular for their crispy texture and bold, tangy buffalo sauce that delivers the classic spicy flavor without meat. The dish appeals especially to vegetarians and health-conscious diners seeking a flavorful, guilt-free appetizer. Making a copycat version allows you to customize spice levels and experiment with fresh ingredients while saving money compared to dining out. Your homemade bites can capture the same satisfying crunch and zest, making it a rewarding culinary project.