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Baked Buffalo Cauliflower
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5 from 1 vote

Baked Buffalo Cauliflower

This baked buffalo cauliflower recipe delivers crispy, golden florets tossed in a glossy homemade buffalo sauce. Perfect for game day, parties, or a flavorful plant-based appetizer, especially when served with blue cheese dip and classic veggie sides.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Servings: 6
Author: Reed Dunn

Ingredients

  • 1 head cauliflower cut into wing-sized florets
  • ¾ cup whole milk
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • ½ cup plus 2 tablespoons flour
  • 2 tablespoons corn starch
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • cup Louisiana-style hot sauce
  • Blue Cheese Dip for serving

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F. Line two rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the milk and lemon juice. Set aside for 5 minutes to slightly thicken.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper.
  • Pour the thickened milk mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until a smooth batter forms.
  • Add the cauliflower florets and gently toss until fully coated.
  • Transfer the coated cauliflower to the prepared baking sheets, shaking off excess batter and arranging in a single layer.
  • Bake for 25 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until lightly golden and set.
  • While the cauliflower bakes, melt the butter in a small saucepan. Whisk in the honey and hot sauce until smooth and glossy.
  • Remove the cauliflower from the oven and toss gently with the buffalo sauce.
  • Return the cauliflower to the baking sheets and bake for an additional 10 to 12 minutes, until the sauce has set and the edges are crisp.
  • Serve immediately with blue cheese or ranch dressing, plus carrot and celery sticks.

Notes

  • You can use store-bought buttermilk instead of making it with whole milk and lemon juice.
  • My preferred hot sauce for this recipe is Crystal's, though you can use Frank's, Tabasco or any other version you like.