Name: Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ⅔ cup all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled); ¼ cup cornstarch; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; ½ teaspoon sea salt; ¾ cup water; 1 head cauliflower (about 2 pounds, broken into large florets); Buffalo Sauce (for brushing); Vegan Ranch (for dipping, optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 49 reviews

There is something so delightfully addictive about this Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe that makes it a total game-changer for anyone craving a flavorful snack or appetizer without the heaviness of traditional wings. The crispy exterior, packed with that signature tangy buffalo kick, perfectly complements the tender cauliflower inside. Trust me, whether you’re serving this at a party or simply craving a spicy treat any night of the week, this recipe earns a permanent spot in your kitchen rotation. Plus, it’s wonderfully easy to make with just a handful of simple ingredients that combine to create magic in the air fryer.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several cauliflower pieces placed on a white marbled surface, with a whole cauliflower head on the right side. Around the cauliflower are small clear bowls containing white flour, light beige breadcrumbs, and a white powder, likely cornstarch. There is a red sauce in a jar near the top center and a gray bowl with a creamy, beige sauce speckled with black near the bottom left. Nearby is a small clear bowl with red spice powder and a glass cup holding bright green celery sticks. On the far left is a metal wire rack. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering your ingredients is a breeze for this recipe, and each plays an important role in building the taste, texture, and vibrant appearance of your buffalo cauliflower. From the crispy coating to the punch of spices, every element counts.

⅔ cup all-purpose flour: The base for the batter, providing structure and a light crust that crisps up beautifully.
¼ cup cornstarch: Adds extra crunch and helps the batter cling perfectly to the cauliflower.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a subtle savory depth to the coating.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Boosts flavor complexity and balances the garlic.
1 teaspoon paprika: Gives a hint of smoky warmth and a lovely color to the batter.
½ teaspoon sea salt: Enhances all the other flavors without overwhelming them.
¾ cup water: The perfect amount to bind the dry ingredients into a smooth, dippable batter.
1 head cauliflower (about 2 pounds): Broken into large, bite-sized florets to soak up the sauce and remain tender inside.
Buffalo Sauce: The star of the dish that adds fiery, tangy goodness with every glaze.
Vegan Ranch (optional): A creamy, cooling dip that complements the spicy buffalo flavor beautifully.

How to Make Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer

Start by setting your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This high temperature is essential for achieving that crisp, golden crust while ensuring the cauliflower cooks to tender perfection. Preheating means your florets begin cooking immediately, preventing sogginess.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and sea salt until well combined. The spice blend adds a delightful kick and a burst of flavor that is absolutely key. Gradually stir in the water, whisking until you have a silky smooth batter with no lumps. This batter will hug the cauliflower florets, creating a crispy shell as they cook.

Step 3: Coat the Cauliflower

Add your cauliflower florets to the batter and gently toss them until each piece is thoroughly coated. Then, lift them out carefully, allowing extra batter to drip back into the bowl so you avoid a soggy mess. This step is the foundation for crispy, well-seasoned bites that truly shine.

Step 4: Air Fry in Batches

Place the coated florets in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, making sure not to crowd them. Crowding causes steam and ruins crispiness, so work in batches if needed. Air fry the cauliflower for 9 minutes, letting the outside set and begin to crisp.

Step 5: Flip and Brush with Buffalo Sauce

After the initial cooking, carefully flip each floret using a spatula. This ensures even browning and texture on all sides. Then generously brush your favorite buffalo sauce over the cauliflower. Return them to the air fryer for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, until their edges darken and become crisp with spicy, tangy flavor.

Step 6: Final Buffalo Glaze

Once out of the air fryer, give the cauliflower a final brush with buffalo sauce to maximize that irresistible buffalo bite and serve immediately. These spicy, crunchy bites are best enjoyed fresh and sizzling.

How to Serve Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe

A woman's hand holds silver tongs that dip a light cream-colored cauliflower floret into a thick, tan batter inside a white bowl with a thin dark rim, positioned near the center of a white marbled surface. Around the bowl, many plain cauliflower florets lie scattered, while a few florets coated with batter rest on a metal cooling rack at the top of the image. A clear glass of water is placed to the left near the bowl. The scene shows a mix of smooth batter texture and the rough cauliflower surfaces. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or cilantro over the buffalo cauliflower to add a pop of green freshness that balances the bold buffalo flavors wonderfully. A squeeze of lime juice also brightens the dish, adding a zesty contrast that makes every bite pop.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with cooling sides like crisp celery sticks or crunchy carrot batons that help mellow the spice. For heartier meals, a simple side salad or crispy roasted potatoes are fantastic choices to round out your spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe on a platter with little cups of vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. You can also pile it atop fresh greens for a spicy buffalo salad or stuff into soft pita pockets for a handheld delight. These presentation ideas turn this snack into an unforgettable experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for about 2 to 3 days. Keep in mind that the crispy texture will soften over time but the flavors remain just as vibrant and delicious.

Freezing

To freeze, flash freeze the cooked cauliflower florets spread out on a baking sheet first until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. This makes it easier to store and reheat only what you need without clumping together. Frozen buffalo cauliflower can last for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers or frozen portions in the air fryer to bring back some of that original crispiness. Heat at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5 to 7 minutes until warmed through and crispy on the edges. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve texture.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your buffalo sauce is gluten-free as well. Cornstarch is naturally gluten-free, so the rest of the recipe stays the same.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

Yes, this Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe is naturally vegan, especially when paired with a vegan buffalo sauce and vegan ranch dressing. It’s a perfect plant-based alternative to buffalo wings that everyone can enjoy.

Can I bake the cauliflower instead of using an air fryer?

Definitely. If you don’t have an air fryer, bake the coated cauliflower florets on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 425 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be as crispy but still very tasty.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level depends on the buffalo sauce you use. Most store-bought buffalo sauces have a moderate heat level, but you can choose a mild or extra-spicy version to suit your preferences. The creamy ranch dipping sauce also helps temper the heat if needed.

Can I double this recipe for a larger group?

Yes! The Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe scales up nicely. Just be sure to cook in batches so your air fryer basket isn’t overcrowded, ensuring each floret comes out perfectly crispy and flavorful.

Final Thoughts

I can’t encourage you enough to give this Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe a try. It’s a brilliant way to satisfy spicy cravings with a healthy twist, all while enjoying a dish that’s crispy, vibrant, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re new to air frying or just a cauliflower lover, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites. So go ahead, get cooking, and prepare to wow your taste buds!