This Gluten Free Buffalo Cauliflower is my spicy, crispy, and healthier alternative to traditional buffalo wings. Made with bite-sized cauliflower florets coated in a seasoned gluten-free batter, baked until golden, and tossed in zesty buffalo sauce, it’s a delicious snack or appetizer I can feel good about eating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this recipe satisfies my craving for something bold and spicy without needing any meat or deep frying. It’s perfect for game day, parties, or even a fun side dish. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and easy to make vegan if I use dairy-free butter. The cauliflower comes out crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, and the buffalo sauce gives it that signature heat I enjoy.
ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
cauliflower florets
gluten-free all-purpose flour
garlic powder
onion powder
paprika
salt
milk of choice (dairy or non-dairy)
buffalo sauce
butter (or dairy-free butter for vegan option)
cooking spray or oil for baking
directions
- I preheat the oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, I whisk together the gluten-free flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and milk to make a smooth batter.
- I dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, shaking off excess, and place them on the baking sheet.
- I spray the tops with cooking spray and bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Meanwhile, I melt the butter and stir it into the buffalo sauce.
- After the initial bake, I remove the cauliflower from the oven, toss them in the buffalo sauce mixture, and return them to the baking sheet.
- I bake for another 10–15 minutes until they’re crispy and caramelized.
- I let them cool slightly before serving with ranch or blue cheese dip.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 4 servings. It takes 10 minutes to prep and 35 minutes to cook, so it’s ready in about 45 minutes total.
Variations
When I want extra crunch, I mix some gluten-free breadcrumbs into the batter or sprinkle them on top before baking. For a smoky flavor, I add a dash of smoked paprika or chipotle powder. I also like using barbecue sauce instead of buffalo for a different twist.
storage/reheating
I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat and keep the texture, I pop them in the air fryer or bake at 375°F for about 10 minutes. The microwave works in a pinch, but they lose their crispiness.
FAQs
Can I make these cauliflower wings in the air fryer?
Yes, I air fry them at 375°F for about 15 minutes, shaking halfway, then toss with buffalo sauce and air fry for another 5 minutes.
Is this recipe vegan?
It can be—just use a dairy-free milk and butter substitute for a fully vegan version.
What’s the best buffalo sauce to use?
I use Frank’s RedHot Original, but any good-quality buffalo sauce works. I like to adjust the spice level by adding more or less butter.
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
I prefer fresh cauliflower for the best texture, but if I use frozen, I make sure to thaw and pat it dry really well to avoid sogginess.
What can I serve with buffalo cauliflower?
I usually serve it with celery sticks and a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing. It also makes a great topping for salads or wraps.
Conclusion
This Gluten Free Buffalo Cauliflower has quickly become one of my favorite snacks when I want something spicy and satisfying without the guilt. It’s crispy, flavorful, and so easy to whip up. Whether I’m feeding a crowd or just making a small batch for myself, it always hits the spot.
Print
Gluten Free Buffalo Cauliflower
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Gluten Free Buffalo Cauliflower is a spicy, crispy, and healthier twist on classic buffalo wings. Perfectly roasted cauliflower florets coated in a seasoned gluten-free batter and tossed in tangy buffalo sauce make this the ultimate game day snack or party appetizer that’s naturally gluten-free and easy to make vegan!
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 3/4 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2/3 cup milk of choice (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter or dairy-free butter
- Cooking spray or oil for baking
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together gluten-free flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and milk until smooth.
- Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, shake off the excess, and place on the baking sheet.
- Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray and bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- While baking, melt butter and mix with buffalo sauce.
- Remove cauliflower from the oven, toss with the buffalo sauce mixture, and return to the baking sheet.
- Bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, until crispy and golden.
- Let cool slightly and serve with ranch or blue cheese dip.
Notes
- For extra crunch, add gluten-free breadcrumbs to the batter or sprinkle on top before baking.
- Swap buffalo sauce for BBQ or other sauces for a flavor change.
- Use smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a smoky kick.
- Fresh cauliflower yields the crispiest results; if using frozen, thaw and dry well.
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