Vegan Cheesy Cauliflower Bites

Looking for a guilt-free, plant-based snack that’s packed with flavor and nutrients? These Vegan Cheesy Cauliflower Bites are the perfect solution! They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and loaded with a cheesy flavor—all without any dairy. Whether you’re hosting a party, meal prepping, or just want a quick and easy snack, these cauliflower bites will hit the spot. Plus, they’re gluten-free and keto-friendly!

Ingredients

For the Bites:

  • 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
  • 1 cup chickpea flour (or all-purpose gluten-free flour)
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (such as almond or oat milk)
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp turmeric (for color)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Coating:

  • 1 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed vegan crackers
  • 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

For the Optional Dipping Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup vegan mayo
  • 1 tbsp sriracha (or more for spice lovers)
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp maple syrup

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  2. Prepare Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the chickpea flour, plant-based milk, water, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. The batter should be thick but smooth.
  3. Make Coating: In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, and smoked paprika. Stir until well mixed.
  4. Coat Cauliflower: Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated. Allow excess batter to drip off, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture until evenly covered. Place the coated florets on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Bake: Bake the cauliflower bites for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crispy.
  6. Make Dipping Sauce (Optional): While the cauliflower bakes, whisk together the vegan mayo, sriracha, lemon juice, and maple syrup in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  7. Serve: Remove the cauliflower bites from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with the dipping sauce on the side.

Tips for Success

  • Air Fryer Option: For an even crispier texture, cook the bites in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
  • Spice it Up: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the batter for a spicy kick.
  • Meal Prep-Friendly: These bites can be made ahead and reheated in the oven or air fryer for a quick snack.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Serves 4

  • Calories: 175
  • Protein: 7g
  • Fat: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 350mg

These Vegan Cheesy Cauliflower Bites are a game-changer for snack lovers! Loaded with cheesy, savory goodness and just the right amount of crunch, they’re sure to be a hit with vegans and non-vegans alike. Try them today and elevate your snack game!