Looking for a dish that satisfies both your craving for comfort food and your desire to eat clean? This Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower recipe checks all the boxes. It’s crispy, sticky, tangy, and totally addictive without the guilt. Whether you serve it as an appetizer, a snack, or a meatless main, this dish brings a punch of flavor and texture that will wow any crowd.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavor: The sweet and spicy glaze coats every bite in fiery, sticky goodness.
• Healthy Swap: Cauliflower is a low-carb alternative to fried wings or nuggets.
• Oven-Baked, Not Fried: You get all the crunch without the deep fryer.
• Vegan & Gluten-Free Friendly: Easy to adapt to most diets!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Baked Cauliflower:

• 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
• 1/2 cup plant-based milk or regular milk
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sweet and Spicy Sauce:

• 1/4 cup hot sauce (like Sriracha or buffalo sauce)
• 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
• 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (to thicken)

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How to Make Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower

Step 1: Prep the Cauliflower

Wash and dry the cauliflower, then cut it into bite-sized florets. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, milk, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 3: Coat and Bake

Dip each floret into the batter, shake off excess, and place on the baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden and crispy.

Step 4: Toss in Sauce

While cauliflower bakes, mix all sauce ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat.

Step 5: Final Bake

Once cauliflower is crispy, toss it in the sauce, return to the baking sheet, and bake for an additional 10 minutes to caramelize.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Garnish with chopped scallions, sesame seeds, or a squeeze of lime. Serve hot with your favorite dip or over rice for a full meal.

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Calories and Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount (Approx.)
Calories	160 kcal
Total Fat	4 g
Saturated Fat	0.5 g
Carbohydrates	28 g
Sugars	8 g
Fiber	4 g
Protein	4 g
Sodium	420 mg

Note: Based on a serving size of 1 cup. Values may vary depending on ingredients used.

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Tips for the Best Baked Cauliflower

Don’t Skip the Second Bake

This step helps the sauce stick and caramelize — it’s key for that irresistible texture.

Use a Thick Batter

A thicker batter ensures each floret is fully coated and crisps up beautifully in the oven.

Customize the Heat

Not into spice? Reduce the hot sauce and increase the sweetener. Want more heat? Add crushed red pepper or cayenne.

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Make It a Meal

Pair it with:

• Steamed jasmine rice or quinoa
• A crisp Asian slaw
• Lettuce wraps for a low-carb option

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Final Thoughts

Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower is everything you want in a snack—crunchy, saucy, and satisfying without being heavy. It’s a great way to sneak more veggies into your diet and impress friends with your plant-based cooking game.

Ready to spice up your weeknight meals? Give this cauliflower a try and watch it disappear in minutes!