Buffalo Cauliflower
Appetizer55 min4 servingsEasyAbout this recipe
Crispy, saucy, and satisfying — this Buffalo cauliflower delivers all the bold, tangy heat you love from classic Buffalo wings, without the meat. Florets are coated in a seasoned batter, baked until golden and crisp, then tossed in a buttery hot sauce and returned to the oven for a sticky, caramelized finish. Serve with celery sticks and your favorite blue cheese or ranch dip for the full experience.
Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to ![450°F]. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set a wire rack on top if you have one — this helps air circulate and makes the florets crispier.
- 2
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt until a smooth, thick batter forms. It should coat the back of a spoon — if it seems too thick, add a splash more milk.
- 3
Add the cauliflower florets to the batter and toss to coat evenly, letting any excess drip off. Arrange them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet — don't crowd them or they'll steam instead of crisp.
- 4
Drizzle or brush the florets with olive oil and season lightly with salt and black pepper. Bake for 20–22 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until the batter is set and lightly golden.
- 5
While the cauliflower bakes, make the Buffalo sauce. In a small saucepan over ^[low heat], melt the butter. Whisk in the frank's RedHot sauce, garlic powder, and honey (if using). Stir until smooth and combined. Remove from heat.
- 6
Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Using tongs, transfer the baked florets to the large mixing bowl. Pour the Buffalo sauce over them and toss gently until every floret is well coated.
- 7
Return the sauced florets to the baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for another 15–18 minutes, until the sauce is caramelized and slightly sticky and the edges are starting to char slightly.
- 8
Let the cauliflower rest for 2–3 minutes after pulling from the oven — it crisps up a bit more as it cools. Serve immediately with celery sticks and a generous side of blue cheese dressing / ranch dressing for dipping.
