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Crispy Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Wings: 30-Min Easy

air fryer buffalo cauliflower wings - featured image

These crispy air fryer buffalo cauliflower wings offer the perfect balance of spicy, tangy flavor and crunchy texture without the guilt of deep frying. A quick, healthy, and crowd-pleasing alternative to traditional chicken wings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 Large Head of Cauliflower (cut into bite-sized florets)
  • 1/2 Cup All-Purpose Flour
  • 1/4 Cup Cornstarch
  • 1 Teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 Teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 1/2 Teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • 1/2 Teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 Cup Water
  • 1/2 Cup Frank’s RedHot Sauce
  • 2 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter (melted)

Instructions

  1. Wash cauliflower florets and pat them completely dry with paper towels to ensure crispiness.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and salt.
  3. Slowly add water to the dry ingredients while whisking to create a smooth, thin batter resembling heavy cream.
  4. Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring full coverage, and let excess drip off.
  5. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  6. Place battered florets in the air fryer basket in a single layer without overlapping.
  7. Air fry for 12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
  8. While wings cook, melt butter and mix with Frank’s RedHot sauce.
  9. Remove crispy wings from air fryer and toss gently in the buffalo sauce.
  10. Return wings to air fryer for 2-3 more minutes to set the sauce.
  11. Serve immediately with celery sticks and blue cheese or ranch dressing.

Notes

Pat cauliflower completely dry before battering to prevent sogginess. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure proper air circulation. For extra crunch, double-dip the florets in batter. Serve immediately for best texture. Leftovers can be reheated in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer, buffalo cauliflower, cauliflower wings, healthy appetizer, vegan options, gluten-free option, game day food, spicy snacks, quick recipes