Baked Cauliflower Bites
A wholesome, crunchy cauliflower snack baked to perfection and topped with a sweet and spicy honey glaze. Gluten-free, vegan, and packed with fiber and plant-based protein, these bites are perfect for appetizers, snacks, or quick meal prep. Healthy, flavorful, and ready in just 35 minutes.
Equipment
- 1 cutting board
- 1 chef’s knife
- 3 Mixing bowls
- 1 whisk
- 1 measuring cup
- 1 Measuring Spoon Set
- 1 kitchen scale
- 1 Baking sheet pan
- 1 pair of tongs
- 1 spoon
Ingredients
Cauliflower Bites:
- 1½ lb 680 g cauliflower florets (½-inch pieces)
- 1½ cups 180 g corn starch, divided (3 Tbsp for coating)
- 1½ tsp blackening spice blend
- ¾ tsp smoked paprika
- 1¼ cups 300 ml unsweetened almond milk (or milk substitute)
- ¼ cup 60 ml high smoke point oil (vegetable, olive blend, or similar)
- 1 Tbsp non-stick pan spray
- ¾ tsp salt granulated or kosher
- Pinch of flaky sea salt for garnish
Spicy Honey Drizzle:
- 1 cup 240 ml honey (clover or wildflower)
- 2 tsp sriracha
- 1 tsp dried chili flakes
- ½ tsp fresh ginger finely minced
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1⅓ Tbsp fresh tangerine juice
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is essential for achieving a perfectly crispy texture. Place a large baking sheet pan into the oven while it heats so the pan is hot and ready to crisp the cauliflower bites from the moment they touch the surface. This step ensures an evenly golden and crunchy result.
- Prepare Cauliflower Florets: Take 1½ lb (about 1 medium head) of fresh cauliflower and trim away the leaves and stem. Cut the cauliflower into uniform ½-inch bite-sized florets to ensure even cooking. Smaller, consistent pieces help the coating stick better and ensure each bite cooks evenly, creating a perfect balance of crunch and tenderness.
- Coat Cauliflower with Cornstarch: Place the cauliflower florets into a large mixing bowl. Add 3 tablespoons of cornstarch and gently toss the florets so they are evenly coated. This dry coating helps the batter adhere better to the cauliflower, creating the crispy outer layer. Ensure each floret is lightly dusted without clumping.
- Prepare Crispy Batter: In a separate mixing bowl, combine the remaining 1½ cups (180 g) cornstarch, 1¼ cups (300 ml) almond milk (or your preferred unsweetened milk substitute), 1½ tsp blackening spice blend, ¾ tsp smoked paprika, and ¾ tsp salt. Use a whisk to mix the ingredients thoroughly until the batter is smooth, creamy, and free of lumps. This batter will coat the cauliflower and provide both flavor and texture.
- Batter the Cauliflower: Carefully add the coated cauliflower florets into the prepared batter bowl. Using tongs or a large spoon, gently toss the florets to ensure each piece is fully coated in the flavorful batter. Take care to coat each floret evenly, allowing the spices and starch mixture to fully envelop the cauliflower for a satisfying crunch.
- Prepare Hot Pan and Add Oil: Once the oven has reached the target temperature, carefully remove the baking sheet pan. Add ¼ cup (60 ml) high smoke point oil directly to the hot pan. This step instantly begins creating a crispy surface when the cauliflower is placed on the pan. Spread the oil evenly using a spoon or by carefully tilting the pan.
- Arrange Cauliflower on Baking Sheet: Using tongs, place the battered cauliflower florets onto the heated baking sheet. Arrange them in a single layer, ensuring no florets touch or overlap. This allows hot air to circulate evenly around each piece, guaranteeing maximum crispness. Overcrowding the pan will result in soggy bites.
- Add Final Touch of Pan Spray: Lightly spray the tops of the arranged cauliflower with 1 tablespoon of non-stick pan spray. This extra step adds a delicate layer of oil that helps the florets crisp evenly in the oven without overloading them with oil.
- First Baking Phase: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and set a timer for 10 minutes. This initial bake sets the batter and starts the crisping process. During this time, the cauliflower will begin to develop a golden crust.
- Flip for Even Crisping: After the first baking phase, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Using tongs, gently flip each floret over to expose the other side to direct heat. This step is crucial for achieving uniform crunch and flavor across all sides of each piece.
- Second Baking Phase: Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes. The cauliflower should turn a deep golden brown and feel delightfully crisp to the touch when done. Remove from the oven and allow the bites to rest briefly while preparing the sauce.
- Prepare Spicy Honey Drizzle: While the cauliflower cooks, combine 1 cup honey, 2 tsp sriracha, 1 tsp dried chili flakes, ½ tsp finely minced fresh ginger, ¼ tsp salt, and 1⅓ Tbsp fresh tangerine juice in a small mixing bowl. Whisk thoroughly until the ingredients are fully incorporated. The result is a rich, aromatic sauce that perfectly balances sweetness, heat, and tang.
- Plate and Drizzle: Transfer the baked cauliflower bites to a serving plate. Generously drizzle the spicy honey sauce over the warm bites, ensuring each piece is coated. This glaze adds a burst of flavor and a glossy finish that enhances both presentation and taste.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the plated cauliflower bites for an extra layer of texture and flavor contrast. Serve immediately while hot, so you enjoy the perfect balance of crispy cauliflower and sweet-spicy sauce.
- Enjoy and Store Leftovers: These Crispy Baked Cauliflower Bites are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to retain crispness.
Notes
- Use a medium cauliflower for uniform cooking and consistent texture.
- Cutting florets evenly (½-inch) is key for even crisping.
- Blackening spice can be substituted with smoked paprika and chili powder for a milder flavor.
- A high smoke point oil (like avocado or light olive oil) ensures optimal crunch without burning.
- For a vegan honey drizzle alternative, use maple syrup or agave nectar mixed with sriracha and citrus juice.
- Avoid overcrowding the baking pan to prevent steaming instead of crisping.
- Best served fresh but can be reheated in an air fryer for best texture.
