Baked Cauliflower Bites are a crispy, flavorful, and healthy snack or appetizer that everyone will love. These tender florets are coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture and baked until golden and crunchy—no frying needed. They’re the perfect plant-based finger food, great for dipping and sharing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy and delicious without deep frying
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
- Healthy and low in calories
- Naturally vegetarian and easily vegan
- Great for game day, snacking, or as a side dish
- Kid-approved and great for picky eaters
- Customizable with your favorite seasonings
- Gluten-free adaptable
- Ideal for meal prep or serving fresh
- Pairs perfectly with sauces and dips
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cauliflower florets
- Olive oil or melted butter
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
- Breadcrumbs (regular or panko)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
- Dipping sauces: ranch, marinara, buffalo, or sriracha mayo (optional)
directions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Wash and cut cauliflower into bite-sized florets.
- In a large bowl, toss the florets with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until well coated.
- Mix breadcrumbs and Parmesan in a shallow bowl.
- Dip each floret into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
- Place coated florets in a single layer on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crisp.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs and your favorite dipping sauce.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 25–30 minutes
- Total time: 40–45 minutes
Variations
- Spicy version: Add cayenne pepper or toss in buffalo sauce before baking.
- Cheesy option: Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella before the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers.
- Vegan: Skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Herby twist: Add Italian seasoning, cumin, or curry powder to the coating for a flavor boost.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 375°F oven or air fryer for 5–8 minutes to bring back crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it will make the bites soggy. These bites are best enjoyed fresh but reheat well when done properly.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, prep and coat the cauliflower in advance and bake just before serving for best texture.
Can I air fry them instead of baking?
Absolutely! Air fry at 400°F for 15–20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
What sauces go well with these bites?
Ranch, buffalo, barbecue, garlic aioli, or sweet chili sauce are all great choices.
Are these bites vegan?
They can be made vegan by skipping Parmesan and using plant-based ingredients.
How do I get them really crispy?
Use panko breadcrumbs and make sure to space the florets on the baking sheet so they roast, not steam.
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Fresh is best for texture, but if using frozen, thaw and dry thoroughly first.
Do I need to boil or steam the cauliflower first?
No, raw cauliflower works perfectly and becomes tender in the oven.
Can I add cheese inside the coating?
Yes, toss in some shredded cheese with the breadcrumbs for a cheesy crunch.
What’s the best way to cut the cauliflower?
Cut it into uniform bite-sized florets so they cook evenly and are easy to eat.
How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in a sealed container and reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
Conclusion
Baked Cauliflower Bites are a crispy, flavorful, and healthy snack that’s easy to make and even easier to love. Whether you’re serving them at a party, enjoying them as a side dish, or just looking for a nutritious alternative to fried snacks, these bites are sure to become a go-to favorite. Crispy, customizable, and totally crave-worthy!
Print
Baked Cauliflower Bites
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Baked Cauliflower Bites are golden, crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside. Coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mix and oven-roasted until perfectly crunchy, they’re a lighter alternative to wings or fried snacks — and just as satisfying!
Ingredients
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1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
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2 large eggs
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1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon paprika
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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Olive oil spray
Optional for serving:
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Ranch or blue cheese dressing
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Buffalo sauce
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Marinara or spicy mayo
Instructions
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Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly greased foil. -
Prepare coating station:
In one bowl, beat the eggs. In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan (if using), garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. -
Coat the cauliflower:
Dip each cauliflower floret into the egg, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press lightly to help the coating stick. -
Bake:
Arrange coated cauliflower on the baking sheet. Lightly spray with olive oil. Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and golden brown. -
Serve:
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or toss in buffalo sauce for a spicy twist.
Notes
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Make it dairy-free by skipping the Parmesan or using a vegan version.
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Want them extra crispy? Broil for the last 2–3 minutes.
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Air fryer version: Cook at 400°F for 15–18 minutes, shaking halfway through.