If you’re searching for a bold, zesty snack or side that delivers big flavor without the deep-frying fuss, Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower is about to become your new go-to. With a golden, irresistibly crispy coating and that iconic tangy buffalo flavor soaking through tender cauliflower florets, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting game night, craving a lighter take on classic buffalo wings, or just need a quick appetizer, you’ll find yourself reaching for this Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower recipe over and over again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the things I love most about this recipe is how approachable the ingredient list is. Each part plays a key role: cauliflower forms the hearty base, while the flour, milk, and spices create the perfect light batter. The Buffalo sauce and buttery finish bring everything together with that unmistakable punch.
- Cauliflower: Chop one large head into equal-sized florets so every piece cooks evenly and gets a beautiful crunch.
- All-purpose flour: Forms the backbone of the crispy coating; feel free to swap for gluten-free flour if desired.
- Milk: I love using soy milk, but any type will help bind the batter to your florets and keep things silky.
- Salt: Essential for enhancing every layer of flavor.
- Pepper: Adds a touch of gentle heat to every bite.
- Hot sauce: Frank’s Buffalo sauce is classic, bringing the tang and spice that defines this dish.
- Butter: Melted butter melds with hot sauce for a creamy, classic buffalo finish.
How to Make Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
Start by whisking together the flour, milk, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. You want a batter that’s smooth, lump-free, and thick enough to coat but not so heavy that it weighs the cauliflower down. This simple blend creates a crisp exterior that clings to every surface of the florets.
Step 2: Coat the Cauliflower
Working quickly, dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, making sure every nook and cranny is coated. As you finish each piece, place it straight into your air fryer basket in a single layer so the hot air can crisp every floret to perfection.
Step 3: Air Fry Until Golden
Cook the battered cauliflower at 200C/400F for 13 to 15 minutes. Check them halfway and give the basket a shake if you’d like — this ensures every floret gets that lovely, even browning. When they’re done, the coating should be deeply golden and shatteringly crisp.
Step 4: Make the Buffalo Sauce
While the cauliflower fries, prepare your buffalo sauce. Whisk together the hot sauce and melted butter until fully combined — don’t skimp on the butter, as it adds richness and helps the sauce cling. This is the step that brings authentic Buffalo flavor to your Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower.
Step 5: Drench and Serve
Once your cauliflower is crispy and golden, gently toss the hot florets in your homemade buffalo sauce until fully coated. Arrange them on a plate while they’re still piping hot, and get ready for the oohs and aahs — these are best enjoyed immediately.
How to Serve Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower
Garnishes
I’m a firm believer that the little extras make a huge difference. Sprinkle your Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower with finely chopped fresh chives, parsley, or green onion for a pop of color. A crumble of blue cheese or a drizzle of ranch dressing offers a creamy counterpoint to all that spicy goodness.
Side Dishes
Pair your cauliflower with classic sides like crunchy celery sticks and carrot batons for dipping. If you’re making a meal of it, try serving alongside a hearty grain bowl, fluffy baked potato, or a crisp green salad. There’s really no wrong way to round out this spicy dish!
Creative Ways to Present
Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower is fun on its own, but I adore turning leftovers into wraps, tacos, or sliders. Pile them onto warm tortillas with slaw, wrap in pita with a shmear of hummus, or serve them atop nachos for an unforgettable twist. Your imagination is the only limit!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any extras (they go fast!), let the cauliflower cool to room temperature before refrigerating in an airtight container. The coating will absorb a bit of moisture, but the flavors only grow richer overnight.
Freezing
For longer storage, arrange cooled, unsauced Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. This helps them hold their texture when you reheat — just wait until serving to toss with the buffalo sauce for best results.
Reheating
To bring back that signature crunch, return cauliflower to the air fryer at 180C/350F for a few minutes until hot and crispy. Need to heat a larger batch? An oven works well too. Re-toss in fresh buffalo sauce if needed to perk up the flavor.
FAQs
Can I make Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower gluten free?
Absolutely! Just swap the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend. As long as the batter sticks to the cauliflower, you’ll still get that deliciously crispy coating.
What’s the best hot sauce for authentic Buffalo flavor?
Frank’s RedHot Buffalo sauce is a classic, but any vinegar-based cayenne pepper sauce will work well. Adjust the brand to your preferred heat level — just keep in mind each brings its own personality!
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
While fresh florets yield the best texture, you can use frozen in a pinch. Thaw thoroughly and pat dry before battering to avoid excess moisture that can make the coating soggy.
How do I keep the cauliflower extra crispy?
Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket and be sure each piece is well-coated but not dripping with batter. Giving the basket a shake midway through air frying really helps build a uniformly crispy exterior.
Is Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower spicy?
It’s definitely got a kick, but you can adjust the heat by mixing in a little extra melted butter to mellow the sauce or choosing a milder hot sauce.
Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower delivers all the addictive flavor of your favorite wings in a lighter, veggie-packed package. If you’ve ever wanted a plant-based snack that truly satisfies, don’t wait to give this recipe a try — I have a feeling it’s going to become a kitchen staple for you, too!
PrintAir Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe
Enjoy the spicy kick of classic buffalo wings in a healthier, vegetarian version with this Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower recipe. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated in a tangy buffalo sauce, these cauliflower bites are perfect for game day or as a flavorful appetizer.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Fry
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Batter:
- 1 large cauliflower, chopped into equal-sized florets
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (use gluten-free if needed)
- 1 cup milk (such as soy milk)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Buffalo Sauce:
- 1 cup hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s Buffalo hot sauce)
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions
- Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, milk, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
- Cooking: Air fry at 200°C/400°F for 13-15 minutes until crispy and golden.
- Buffalo Sauce: While cauliflower cooks, mix hot sauce and melted butter until smooth.
Moving quickly, dip cauliflower florets into the batter until fully coated. Arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Once cauliflower is crispy, toss in the buffalo sauce until coated. Serve immediately.
Notes
- You can adjust the hot sauce to butter ratio to suit your spice preference.
- For a vegan option, use plant-based milk and dairy-free butter.
