Description
These Crispy Vegan Cauliflower Bites are made with frozen riced cauliflower, savory seasonings, and a hint of smoky Parmesan flavor. Lightly crisp on the outside, tender inside, and made without oil! Bake them in the oven or air fryer for an easy vegan snack, appetizer, or side dish.
Ingredients
- 2 (10-ounce) bags frozen riced cauliflower, completely thawed (do not drain)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup vegan Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup ground flaxseed
- 1/3 cup nutritional yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, plus extra for sprinkling
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup unsweetened plant milk, plus 1 Tablespoon if needed
Instructions
- Combine the ingredients. Add the completely thawed riced cauliflower, panko breadcrumbs, vegan Parmesan, ground flaxseed, nutritional yeast, onion powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt to a large mixing bowl. Stir until evenly combined.
- Add the plant milk. Pour in ¼ cup of plant milk and mix thoroughly. The mixture should be moist and slightly crumbly but hold together when firmly packed. If it's too dry, add another Tablespoon of plant milk.
- Let it rest. Allow the mixture to sit for 10 minutes so the dry ingredients can absorb the moisture and help bind everything together.
- Scoop the bites. Using a small cookie scoop, firmly pack the mixture and release each scoop onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. You should have approximately 30 bites.
- Add the finishing touch. Lightly sprinkle the tops with additional smoked paprika.
- Oven method: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Bake for 32–35 minutes, until the bites are a deep golden brown and lightly crisp on the outside.
- Air fryer method: Preheat the air fryer to 360°F. Arrange the bites on a parchment lined air fryer tray, in a single layer, leaving approximately 1 inch between them to allow air to circulate and ensure crispy edges. Air fry for 13 minutes, until golden brown. No flipping necessary. Depending on the size of your air fryer you may need to make multiple batches to avoid crowding.
- Serve warm. Carefully remove the bites and serve while they're still warm and lightly crisp. Serve warm on their own or with vegan ranch drizzled over the top!
Notes
Thaw completely: The riced cauliflower must be completely thawed before mixing or the bites may fall apart when scooped. Do not drain.
Pack firmly: Press the mixture tightly into your cookie scoop to help the bites hold their shape.
Don't skip the rest: Those 10 minutes help the ingredients absorb moisture and bind together.
Best served fresh: The bites have a lightly crisp exterior and tender center. They soften after refrigeration, so reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore some crispness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Rest time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Lunch, Snack
- Method: Air Fryer, Baking
- Cuisine: American