Cauliflower Buffalo Bites

Cauliflower Buffalo Bites are a fantastic way to add a bit of spice and excitement to your snack game. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a movie night at home, or just looking for a delicious and healthy snack, these bites are perfect. Coated in a spicy buffalo sauce and baked to crispy perfection, they are a great alternative to traditional buffalo wings. Plus, they are suitable for everyone, including vegans, by simply substituting butter with coconut oil!

Why Make This Recipe

Making Cauliflower Buffalo Bites is not only simple but also a healthy choice for anyone craving a tasty treat. Using cauliflower instead of meat makes this dish lighter and packed with nutrients. The blend of spices and hot sauce gives these bites just the right kick, making them a satisfying snack or appetizer. They are easy to whip up in under 30 minutes, making them ideal for last-minute gatherings or weekend munching. Plus, they pair perfectly with classic dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese!

Ingredients for This Buffalo Cauliflower Bites:

These bites are full of flavor and easy to whip up. We’re using cauliflower as the base, and then tossing it in a simple batter made from flour and almond milk. Once baked, we coat the cauliflower in a spicy, buttery buffalo sauce. It’s a game-changer!

• 1 head cauliflower (about 5 cups)
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup milk (I used unsweetened almond milk)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• ⅔ cup buffalo sauce
• 1 ½ tablespoons butter (melted)

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How to Make Buffalo Cauliflower Bites:

Ready to make these crispy, spicy bites? Let’s go!

1. Preheat and Prep:
Preheat your oven to 450°F (220°C). Line a large baking tray with parchment paper or foil and grease it well. Chop your cauliflower into bite-sized pieces, and you’re good to go!

2. Make the Batter:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth. Add the cauliflower pieces and toss to coat them evenly in the batter.

3. Bake the Cauliflower:
Place the battered cauliflower onto your prepared tray and bake it for 20 minutes, or until golden brown. While it’s baking, make the buffalo sauce by whisking together the buffalo sauce and melted butter.

4. Coat with Buffalo Sauce:
Once the cauliflower is baked, remove it from the oven and brush each piece with the buffalo sauce. Make sure every bite is covered in that delicious, spicy goodness. Pop the cauliflower back into the oven and bake for another 10 minutes.

5. Serve:
Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. These crispy, spicy bites are perfect on their own or paired with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch or blue cheese.

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Notes:

• To Store: Leftover buffalo bites can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
• To Freeze: Place leftovers in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge or add more reheating time.
• To Reheat: To keep them crispy, I recommend reheating the buffalo bites in the oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes, or in the air fryer at 375°F for 4-5 minutes. Avoid microwaving as they’ll get soggy.

How to Store Cauliflower Buffalo Bites

If you happen to have leftovers, storing Cauliflower Buffalo Bites is simple. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper or place them in a single layer to avoid sogginess. When you’re ready to eat again, reheating them will revive their crispy texture!

Tips to Make Cauliflower Buffalo Bites

Here are some helpful tips to enhance your Cauliflower Buffalo Bites experience:

• Use fresh cauliflower: Fresh florets will yield the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give your cauliflower enough space on the baking sheet for even cooking.
• Adjust spice levels: Feel free to use more or less hot sauce depending on your tolerance for spice.
• Add cheese: For a cheesy version, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top during the last few minutes of baking.

Can You Freeze Cauliflower Buffalo Bites

Yes, you can freeze Cauliflower Buffalo Bites! To freeze, lay the cooled bites in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. Just remember, you can bake them straight from the freezer; you may need to add a few additional minutes to the cooking time.

How to Reheat Cauliflower Buffalo Bites

Reheating your Cauliflower Buffalo Bites can be done easily. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and spread the bites on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-12 minutes until they are heated through and crispy again. You can also use an air fryer for a quicker option—just air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the bites soggy.

Variation

You can customize your Cauliflower Buffalo Bites in many ways. Add some spices like smoked paprika or cayenne for a different flavor profile. For a cheesy take, toss the baked cauliflower with some shredded mozzarella or parmesan before the final baking. You can also try adding a splash of lemon juice for a zesty kick or experiment with different sauces, like teriyaki or garlic parmesan.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

While fresh cauliflower is recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen cauliflower. Just make sure to thaw and drain the excess moisture before coating and baking.

2. Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, the recipe can be made vegan by substituting regular butter with coconut oil. The rest of the ingredients are plant-based!

3. How spicy are Cauliflower Buffalo Bites?

The spiciness depends on the hot sauce you choose. Frank’s Buffalo Wing Sauce has a moderate heat level, but feel free to adjust the amount to match your spice preference!

In conclusion, Cauliflower Buffalo Bites are a fantastic blend of flavor and healthiness. They’re easy to prepare for any occasion and sure to satisfy both vegans and non-vegans alike. Whether you serve them at a party, enjoy them solo, or throw them together for a quick snack, they’re bound to be a hit!

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