Super Bowl Buffalo Cauliflower Bites (Printable View)
Delight in crispy, spicy cauliflower florets coated in tangy buffalo sauce. An ideal vegetarian appetizer for game day gatherings.
# Ingredient List:
→ Vegetables
01 - 1 large head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
→ Batter
02 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
03 - 1/2 cup water
04 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
06 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
07 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
08 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
→ Buffalo Sauce
09 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
10 - 1/2 cup hot sauce (such as Frank's RedHot)
11 - 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
→ For Serving (optional)
12 - Celery sticks
13 - Carrot sticks
14 - Blue cheese or ranch dressing
# How to Make It:
01 - Preheat your oven to 425°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly whisk together the all-purpose flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until a smooth, consistent batter is formed.
03 - Introduce the cauliflower florets into the prepared batter. Toss them gently to ensure each floret is evenly coated. Lightly shake off any excess batter, then arrange the coated florets in a single layer on the lined baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
04 - Bake the cauliflower florets for 20 minutes. Halfway through the baking time, carefully flip them to ensure even browning, until they appear lightly golden and crisp.
05 - While the cauliflower bakes, prepare the buffalo sauce. In a small bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, hot sauce, and the optional honey or maple syrup. Whisk until all ingredients are well combined.
06 - Once the initial baking is complete, remove the cauliflower from the oven and transfer it to a large clean bowl. Pour the prepared buffalo sauce over the florets, then toss them gently until every piece is thoroughly coated.
07 - Carefully return the sauced cauliflower florets to the baking sheet, spreading them in a single layer. Continue to bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the edges become crispy and the buffalo sauce is visibly bubbling.
08 - Serve the Super Bowl Buffalo Cauliflower Bites immediately, accompanied by fresh celery sticks, carrot sticks, and your preferred dipping sauce, such as blue cheese or ranch dressing.
# Expert Suggestions:
01 -
- It's a fantastic way to enjoy those classic buffalo flavors in a surprisingly light, veggie-packed bite.
- You'll be amazed how quickly these disappear at any gathering, even among the most committed meat-eaters!
02 -
- For those avoiding gluten, a good quality gluten-free flour blend works wonders in this batter, allowing everyone to enjoy these delicious bites.
- The heat level is totally in your hands; start with less hot sauce if you're unsure, or crank it up by adding a dash more or opting for a hotter brand.
03 -
- Ensure your cauliflower florets are as dry as possible before coating them in batter; this helps the batter adhere better and creates a crispier final product.
- Don't be shy with tossing the cauliflower in the sauce; every floret deserves to be fully enveloped in that tangy goodness!