Crispy, spicy, and guilt-free, these Healthy Buffalo Cauliflower Bites are the ultimate snack or appetizer. Oven-baked to perfection, they offer all the bold flavor of buffalo wings without the heaviness. Perfect for weeknight dinners, game-day snacks, or party appetizers, this recipe is easy, versatile, and naturally vegetarian.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy, oven-baked, and full of flavor
- Healthy, vegetarian, and lower in calories than traditional wings
- Perfect for meal prep or party appetizers
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
- Adjustable spice levels for any taste
Ingredients

- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3/4 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 tablespoon melted butter or olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions

- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Dip cauliflower florets into the batter, letting excess drip off, and place on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 20 minutes until lightly golden.
- Mix buffalo sauce with melted butter or olive oil.
- Toss the baked cauliflower in the sauce until coated evenly.
- Return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes.
- Serve immediately with ranch or yogurt dip.
Tips & Variations
- Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for extra crispiness.
- Substitute gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Add extra spices like cayenne or smoked paprika for more heat.
- Serve with celery sticks or carrot sticks for a classic buffalo-style presentation.
Storage & Freezer Instructions
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
Serving & Pairing Ideas

- Serve with ranch or blue cheese dip.
- Pair with fresh celery and carrot sticks.
- Add to wraps or tacos for a spicy veggie option.
- Serve as an appetizer at parties or game days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or oat flour. The texture remains crispy and delicious.
How can I make them extra crispy?
Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking. Make sure the florets are evenly coated and spaced on the baking sheet.
Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely. Use mild, medium, or hot buffalo sauce depending on your preference. Add extra cayenne for a spicier version.
Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?
Yes, the batter can be prepared and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Coat the cauliflower right before baking for best results.
Ready to Make It?
These Healthy Buffalo Cauliflower Bites are simple, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Crispy, spicy, and light, they’re a must-try recipe for anyone who loves bold flavor without the extra calories. Save this recipe to enjoy again anytime you want a quick, healthy, and tasty snack or appetizer.
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Healthy Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy, spicy, and guilt-free, these Healthy Buffalo Cauliflower Bites are oven-baked to perfection and perfect for snacks, appetizers, or sides. Naturally vegetarian and full of flavor.
Ingredients
1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
1/2 cup all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour
1/2 cup water
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
3/4 cup buffalo sauce
1 tablespoon melted butter or olive oil
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Dip cauliflower florets into the batter, letting excess drip off, and place on the baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20 minutes until lightly golden.
5. Mix buffalo sauce with melted butter or olive oil.
6. Toss baked cauliflower in the sauce until evenly coated.
7. Return to oven for an additional 10 minutes.
8. Serve immediately with ranch or yogurt dip.
Notes
Broil for 1-2 minutes at the end for extra crispiness.
Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Adjust spice level with mild, medium, or hot buffalo sauce.
Serve with celery or carrot sticks for a classic buffalo presentation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 7
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Unsaturated Fat: 4
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 18
- Fiber: 4
- Protein: 5
- Cholesterol: 0