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Ghost Cauliflower Bites Baked

These Ghost Cauliflower Bites are crispy, spicy, and vegan, making them the ultimate healthy appetizer. Paired with creamy vegan Ranch Dressing, they're perfect for game-day snacks or family gatherings.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Gluten-Free, Vegan, Vegetarian
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cauliflower Bites
  • 1 head cauliflower (cut into bites, stems removed)
  • 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour (can substitute regular flour if not gluten-sensitive)
  • 1 1/2 cup milk or dairy-free milk
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 6-7 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust based on spice preference)
  • 3 tablespoons butter or dairy-free butter (melted)
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Vegan Ranch Dressing
  • 1 cup raw cashews (soaked in hot water for 30 minutes)
  • 2/3 cup unsweetened almond milk (adjust for dressing thickness)
  • 2 teaspoons lemon juice
  • 1-2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 3/4 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (scant)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon maple syrup
  • 1-2 tablespoons fresh herbs (dill, parsley, chives; use any combination based on availability)

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Cooking spray
  • blender
  • Large mixing bowl

Method
 

Cauliflower Bites
  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, milk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until combined into a thick, pourable batter.
  3. Dip each cauliflower bite into the batter, fully coating it. Shake off any excess batter.
  4. Place the coated cauliflower bites onto a greased baking sheet in a single layer. Avoid overlapping.
  5. Spray the bites generously with cooking spray for the crispiest texture.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
Vegan Ranch Dressing
  1. In a blender, combine soaked cashews, almond milk, lemon juice, minced garlic, sea salt, black pepper, onion powder, apple cider vinegar, and maple syrup. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  2. If the dressing is too thick, adjust with additional almond milk a tablespoon at a time.
  3. Stir in the finely chopped fresh herbs, tasting and adjusting as necessary.

Notes

Pourable, thick batter ensures perfect coating. Use additional cooking spray for optimal crunch. Heat leftovers at 375°F for best texture. Nutrition information is estimated based on common ingredients and serving sizes and may vary.