Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe Vegan Gluten Free and Delicious

If you’re craving a spicy, tangy snack that’s both vegan and gluten-free, look no further than this delicious buffalo cauliflower recipe. It’s a perfect plant-based alternative to traditional buffalo wings, offering the same fiery flavor with a satisfying crunch.

Whether you’re catering to dietary restrictions or simply want a healthier option, these buffalo cauliflower bites will quickly become a favorite at your gatherings or weeknight dinners.

This recipe is incredibly simple to make and uses wholesome ingredients to create a bold taste explosion. Tossed in a homemade buffalo sauce and baked to perfection, each bite has just the right amount of heat and zest.

Plus, it’s packed with nutrients and free from common allergens, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Ready to spice up your snack game?

Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This buffalo cauliflower recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it’s vegan and gluten-free, so it fits a variety of dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

The cauliflower florets get perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining tender inside, thanks to the light and airy batter.

The homemade buffalo sauce is vibrant and tangy, made with simple pantry staples like hot sauce and vegan butter. Baking instead of frying keeps it healthier and easier to prepare.

It’s also a versatile dish — great as an appetizer, snack, or even a main course when paired with sides.

Lastly, it’s a fantastic way to get more vegetables into your diet without feeling like you’re missing out on comfort food. The bold flavors and satisfying texture mean even picky eaters will be reaching for seconds.

Ingredients

• 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
• 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsweetened plant milk (almond, soy, oat, or your choice)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
• 1/4 cup vegan butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
• Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
• Celery sticks and vegan ranch dressing, for serving

Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or fork
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Small saucepan
• Tongs or a spatula

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, plant milk, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt until smooth. The batter should be thick enough to coat the cauliflower but still pourable. Adjust with a little more milk if needed.
3. Coat the cauliflower: Add the cauliflower florets to the batter and toss gently until each piece is fully coated. Shake off any excess batter to avoid sogginess.
4. Arrange on the baking sheet: Place the coated cauliflower florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they aren’t touching to allow for optimal crisping.
5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, flipping the florets halfway through to ensure even browning and crispiness.
6. Make the buffalo sauce: While the cauliflower bakes, melt the vegan butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in the hot sauce and maple syrup until well combined.
7. Toss cauliflower in sauce: Once the cauliflower is baked and crispy, transfer the florets to a large bowl. Pour the buffalo sauce over them and toss gently until evenly coated.
8. Final bake: Return the sauced cauliflower to the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10 minutes. This step helps the sauce stick and caramelize slightly.
9. Serve: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately with celery sticks and vegan ranch dressing on the side.

Tips & Variations

For the crispiest cauliflower, make sure to space the florets well on the baking sheet and don’t overcrowd.

Try using different hot sauces to adjust the heat level or flavor profile. For example, a chipotle hot sauce adds a smoky twist, while a milder sauce keeps it kid-friendly.

If you prefer a no-bake version, you can skip the final baking step after tossing in the sauce, but keep in mind the sauce won’t caramelize as much.

For an extra crunch, sprinkle the coated cauliflower with gluten-free breadcrumbs before baking, or add a tablespoon of nutritional yeast to the batter for a cheesy flavor.

Looking for a creamy dip? Try our vegan cajun ranch wing sauce for a perfect complement.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These buffalo cauliflower bites are incredibly versatile. Serve them as a game-day snack alongside celery sticks and your favorite vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.

They also make a fantastic appetizer for parties or potlucks. For a more substantial meal, pair them with a fresh green salad, quinoa, or roasted sweet potatoes.

Want to get creative? Use them as a spicy topping on vegan pizzas or tacos.

You can even add them to grain bowls for a flavorful protein boost.

Try pairing this recipe with other crowd-pleasers like our Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food or complement it with a refreshing beverage like the Huckleberry Margarita Recipe.

Conclusion

This buffalo cauliflower recipe is a delicious, healthy way to enjoy bold, spicy flavors without any animal products or gluten. Its crispy texture and tangy buffalo sauce deliver all the satisfaction of traditional wings with none of the guilt.

Whether you’re vegan, gluten-intolerant, or simply love flavorful veggies, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable, it’s perfect for snacks, appetizers, or even a main course when paired with your favorite sides. Make sure to bookmark this recipe and explore other amazing dishes like the Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe for more vegan inspiration.

Enjoy the fiery goodness and happy cooking!

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