Baked Bang Bang Cauliflower

this Recipe

If you’ve ever wished for a snack that’s crispy, spicy, and just a little bit sweet—all without the deep-fryer mess—Baked Bang Bang Cauliflower is your dream come true! I’m seriously so grateful you’re here because this is one recipe that I just had to share with you. It’s vibrant, exciting, and completely addictive in the best way possible!

👉 Want more recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Be sure to subscribe and never miss a delicious bite!

Overview of the Recipe Content

Baked Bang Bang Cauliflower is everything you love about your favorite appetizer—lightly crispy, saucy, and bursting with flavor—but made easier and a little healthier by baking instead of frying. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly and perfect for everything from casual snack nights to party spreads!

Reasons to Love This Baked Bang Bang Cauliflower

I promised you versatile, and here’s proof!

• Oven-baked for a lighter but still crispy bite.
• Incredibly flavorful with a spicy, creamy, and slightly sweet bang bang sauce.
• Great as an appetizer, snack, or even a main course when paired with rice or noodles.
• Easy to customize for your preferred level of heat!

Anything but boring!!

What Does Baked Bang Bang Cauliflower Taste Like?

Imagine biting into a tender floret that’s wrapped in a lightly crispy coating, then drenched in a creamy, tangy, spicy sauce that leaves you wanting just one more piece. It’s a flavor explosion—sweetness from the honey, heat from the sriracha, creaminess from the mayo—and the roasted cauliflower adds its own nutty goodness to the mix.

Benefits of Baked Bang Bang Cauliflower

• Healthier than fried alternatives.
• Vegetarian-friendly.
• Perfect for meal prep—reheat beautifully!
• Customizable spice level depending on your sauce ratios.

Ingredients for Baked Bang Bang Cauliflower

Here’s everything you’ll need to make magic happen:

• 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup water (or milk for extra richness)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1½ cups panko breadcrumbs
• ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
• 2–3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 1–2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• Chopped green onions and sesame seeds, for garnish

Tools Needed

• Large mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Small saucepan (for warming the sauce, optional)

---

Possible Ingredient Additions and Substitutions

• Vegan Option: Use plant-based mayo and maple syrup instead of honey.
• Gluten-Free Version: Swap the flour and panko for gluten-free alternatives.
• Extra Veggies: Try tossing in some broccoli or Brussels sprouts!
• Spice Swap: Use sambal oelek instead of sriracha for a different heat profile.

How to Make Baked Bang Bang Cauliflower

Step 1: Prep the Cauliflower

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Cut your cauliflower into bite-sized florets—try to keep them similar in size for even cooking.

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, water (or milk), garlic powder, and salt until smooth.

Step 3: Coat the Cauliflower

Dip each floret into the batter, letting any excess drip off, then roll it in the panko breadcrumbs. Place on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake Until Crispy

Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy!

Step 5: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together the mayo, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey. Adjust to your preferred heat and sweetness.

Step 6: Toss and Serve

Once the cauliflower is baked, either drizzle the sauce on top or gently toss the florets in the sauce to coat. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds!

What to Serve with Baked Bang Bang Cauliflower

• Steamed jasmine rice
• Stir-fried noodles
• Fresh veggie wraps
• Crisp green salad with an Asian-inspired dressing
• As a taco filling (yes, really!)

Tips for the Best Baked Bang Bang Cauliflower

• Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even crisping.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet—give the florets room to crisp up!
• Toss in the sauce just before serving to maintain maximum crunch.
• Warm the sauce slightly if you want it to coat the cauliflower even more smoothly.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F for about 8-10 minutes to bring back the crispiness—microwaving will make them soggy!

General Information

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4 as an appetizer

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the battered and breaded cauliflower ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for a few hours. Bake and sauce just before serving for best results!

Is Bang Bang Cauliflower spicy?

It can be! You can control the heat by adjusting how much sriracha you use in the sauce.

Can I air fry the cauliflower instead?

Absolutely! Air fry at 400°F for about 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Conclusion

I truly hope you’ll fall in love with this Baked Bang Bang Cauliflower the way I did—it’s crunchy, saucy, spicy-sweet perfection! Whether you’re whipping it up for a party, a game day snack, or just because you deserve something amazing, this recipe is your ticket to flavor town without all the grease. So simple, so fun, and SO GOOD!!

If you enjoyed this, you might also love:

• Spicy Honey Garlic Cauliflower
• Sweet Chili Tofu Bites
• Crispy Baked Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

✨ Don’t forget to leave a review below and share your creations on Pinterest—tag me so I can see your masterpieces!!

Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)

• Calories: 280
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 6g

Print