Buffalo Cauliflower Bites with Vegan Ranch Dip

Name: Buffalo Cauliflower Bites with Vegan Ranch Dip
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 1 medium cauliflower; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based milk; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup hot sauce; 2 tbsp vegan butter; 1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise; 2 tbsp unsweetened plant-based milk; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp dried dill; 1 tsp dried parsley; Salt and pepper to taste

Kristine Roberson January 20, 2025

Servings: 4 Total Time: 45 mins Difficulty: Beginner

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Spicy Buffalo Cauliflower Bites with Vegan Ranch Dip: A Big Game Snack Touchdown 🏈

Spicy Buffalo Cauliflower Bites with Vegan Ranch Dip: A Big Game Snack Touchdown 🏈

The biggest game day of the year is almost here, and whether you’re tuning in for the football, the halftime show, or just the excuse to snack all day, we’ve got a recipe that’s sure to be a crowd favorite. Say hello to Spicy Buffalo Cauliflower Bites with Vegan Ranch Dip! 🌶️🥦

These crispy, flavorful bites are the perfect healthier alternative to traditional wings. They’re bold, plant-based, and pair beautifully with a creamy vegan ranch dip. Whether you’re hosting a full house or keeping it low-key, this snack will have everyone reaching for seconds. Let’s get cooking!

Why These Buffalo Cauliflower Bites Are a Game Day MVP

1. Flavor That Brings the Heat

Tossed in tangy buffalo sauce and baked to perfection, these bites pack a spicy punch. A smoked paprika batter ensures they’re bursting with flavor in every bite.

2. Perfect for Everyone

With no meat or dairy, this dish caters to plant-based eaters and curious carnivores alike. It’s a versatile snack that’ll win over the whole crowd.

3. Effortless and Quick

With simple ingredients and a straightforward recipe, you can whip these up in no time—leaving you free to enjoy the day.

The Recipe: Buffalo Cauliflower Bites with Vegan Ranch Dip

These spicy, crispy bites are the ultimate game-day snack. Here’s everything you need to know to make them!

Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Cauliflower Bites:

1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
½ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
½ cup unsweetened plant-based milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot)
2 tablespoons vegan butter, melted

For the Vegan Ranch Dip:

½ cup vegan mayonnaise
2 tablespoons unsweetened plant-based milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried dill
1 teaspoon dried parsley
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Make the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, plant-based milk, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt.
Coat the Cauliflower: Toss the cauliflower florets in the batter until evenly coated. Spread them out on the baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.
First Bake: Bake the cauliflower for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
Add the Sauce: While the cauliflower bakes, mix the hot sauce and melted vegan butter. After the initial bake, remove the cauliflower, brush each piece with the sauce mixture, and return it to the oven for an additional 10 minutes.
Make the Dip: While the cauliflower bakes, whisk all the ranch ingredients together in a small bowl. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Arrange the cauliflower bites on a platter with the vegan ranch dip on the side. Add celery and carrot sticks for a classic pairing!

How to Serve Like a Snack Pro

🏆 Create a Winning Spread:

Serve these bites with fresh veggies like carrot and celery sticks for crunch. Add a variety of appetizers and dips, including your homemade vegan ranch, hummus, or even a smoky barbecue sauce.

🏆 Elevate to an Entrée:

Want to make it a meal? Turn these bites into buffalo cauliflower tacos by layering them in soft tortillas with shredded lettuce, avocado, and a drizzle of ranch dip.

Pro Tips for Perfect Bites

Crispiness is key: Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to ensure the cauliflower gets golden and crispy.
Spice control: Tone down the heat for spice-sensitive guests by mixing in a little extra vegan butter or using a milder hot sauce.
Double the dip: This vegan ranch is irresistible, so make an extra batch for your guests to enjoy!

Key Points:

Lower in Calories: This recipe is a lighter alternative to traditional buffalo wings.
High in Flavor: While low in sugar, the buffalo sauce and seasonings pack a punch.
Healthy Fats: The vegan mayonnaise and vegan butter contribute to the fat content, but they also provide a creamy richness to the dish.
Watch the Sodium: Buffalo sauce and vegan mayonnaise are higher in sodium, so keep an eye on portion sizes if sodium intake is a concern.

Let the Snacking Begin!

These Spicy Buffalo Cauliflower Bites will have your game-day guests asking for the recipe—or for more! Whether you’re rooting for your favorite team or just enjoying the good vibes, this snack is a guaranteed win.

Looking for more healthy and delicious ideas? Subscribe to HealthyHerMidlife.com for weekly recipes and wellness inspiration. Until then, grab your favorite hot sauce and get ready to wow your friends and family. 🧡

Happy Big Game Snacking! 🏈

PS: Hosting a game-day party? We’d love to see your snack table! Share your spread by tagging @HealthyHerMidlife on Instagram. 📸

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