Crispy Air Fryer Cauliflower Bites
These crispy air fryer cauliflower bites are a quick, easy, and delicious snack with a perfect crunchy coating and tender inside. Ideal for potlucks, game days, or a healthy treat for kids and adults alike.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Snack
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- ½ cup (60g) all-purpose flour (can substitute chickpea flour for gluten-free)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- ¾ tsp salt
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- ½ cup (120ml) milk (dairy or plant-based, e.g., unsweetened almond milk)
- ¾ cup (75g) panko breadcrumbs (Japanese-style recommended)
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Rinse and cut the cauliflower head into evenly sized bite-sized florets (about 1 to 1.5 inches). Pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, black pepper, and milk until smooth and slightly thick but pourable. Add more milk if too thick.
- Pour panko breadcrumbs into a shallow bowl or plate.
- Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, letting excess drip off, then roll in panko breadcrumbs to coat evenly. Place coated florets on a baking sheet or plate.
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Place coated florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not touch. Lightly spray with olive oil spray.
- Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking or turning halfway through. Add 2-3 more minutes if needed until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove and let cool for a couple of minutes. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy as is.
Notes
Ensure cauliflower florets are dry before coating to achieve maximum crispiness. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to avoid steaming. Shake or turn halfway through cooking for even browning. Use olive oil spray lightly to promote crispness without greasiness. For gluten-free, substitute flour and breadcrumbs accordingly. If no air fryer, bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 6-8 bites per
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 6
- Saturated Fat: 1
- Carbohydrates: 19
- Fiber: 3.5
- Protein: 5.5
Keywords: air fryer, cauliflower bites, crispy snack, healthy snack, quick snack, vegetarian, gluten-free option