1. Prepare the Cauliflower

Start by preparing the cauliflower. Remove the outer leaves and cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Try to keep the florets uniform in size to ensure even cooking. Once cut, set the cauliflower aside.

2. Make the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth. The batter should be thick enough to coat the cauliflower without dripping excessively. If the batter seems too thin, add a little more flour to thicken it. If it’s too thick, add a bit more water to reach the desired consistency.

3. Coat the Cauliflower in the Batter

Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring that it is well-coated. Allow any excess batter to drip off before placing the cauliflower on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Continue this process for all the florets.

To ensure that the cauliflower bites bake evenly, arrange them in a single layer on the baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each floret. This will allow the heat to circulate around the cauliflower, helping it crisp up nicely in the oven.

4. Bake the Cauliflower Bites

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Once the oven is ready, place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the cauliflower for 20-25 minutes, or until the cauliflower is crispy and golden brown on the edges. Halfway through baking, use tongs to flip the cauliflower pieces over to ensure even crisping on both sides.

While the cauliflower is baking, you can start preparing the buffalo sauce.

5. Prepare the Buffalo Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once the butter has melted, add the hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and honey (if using). Stir the mixture well and bring it to a simmer. Allow the sauce to cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding a pinch of salt or more honey if you prefer a sweeter sauce.

Once the buffalo sauce is ready, remove it from the heat and set it aside until the cauliflower bites are finished baking.

6. Toss the Cauliflower in the Buffalo Sauce

Once the cauliflower bites are golden and crispy, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Pour the buffalo sauce over the cauliflower and toss gently to coat all the pieces evenly. Be sure to coat each floret with the sauce, but be gentle to avoid breaking the crispy coating.

7. Serve the Buffalo Cauliflower Bites

Once the cauliflower bites are coated in the buffalo sauce, arrange them on a serving platter. If desired, garnish the bites with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or blue cheese dressing.