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Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower is shown as a delicious and crispy appetizer or side dish.

Best Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower

This recipe delivers perfectly crispy and saucy buffalo cauliflower using an air fryer. By focusing on moisture control and a double-coating technique, this recipe ensures even cooking and maximum crunch. It's a healthier, plant-based alternative to traditional buffalo wings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 17 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour or gluten-free blend
  • 1/2 cup milk dairy or non-dairy
  • 1/4 cup hot sauce Frank's RedHot recommended
  • 1 tablespoon butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for extra heat
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • Optional dipping sauce: Ranch dressing
  • Optional dipping sauce: Blue cheese dressing

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Two bowls
  • whisk
  • Clean kitchen towel
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Cauliflower: Wash and thoroughly dry the cauliflower florets. Spread them out on a clean kitchen towel and pat them dry.
  2. Make the Batter: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper until smooth.
  3. Coat the Cauliflower: Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring it's evenly coated. Let the excess batter drip off before placing it in the air fryer.
  4. Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the battered cauliflower florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
  5. Prepare the Buffalo Sauce: While the cauliflower is air frying, prepare the buffalo sauce. In a separate bowl, whisk together the hot sauce and melted butter. Adjust the ratio to your liking.
  6. Sauce the Cauliflower: Once the cauliflower is cooked, transfer it to a clean bowl. Pour the buffalo sauce over the cauliflower and toss gently to coat evenly.
  7. Final Air Fry (Optional): For extra crispiness, return the sauced cauliflower to the air fryer basket in a single layer and air fry for another 2-3 minutes.
  8. Serve: Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or blue cheese dressing.

Notes

For extra crispiness, a second air frying after saucing is highly recommended. Thoroughly drying the cauliflower before battering is crucial. Air fry in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for best results.