Name: Crunchy Baked Hot Honey Cauliflower.
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 6 cups cornflakes ((gluten-free if needed)); 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 3 large eggs; 3 tablespoons hot sauce; 4-5 cups cauliflower florets; Extra virgin olive oil ((for drizzling)); 1/2 cup honey; 2-3 tablespoons hot sauce; 1-3 teaspoons cayenne pepper; 3/4 teaspoon chipotle chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Fresh thyme, cilantro, or parsley ((for serving)); 1/2 cup plain whole milk Greek yogurt; 1/4 cup olive oil mayo; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives; Kosher salt and black pepper ((to taste)); 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese or grated parmesan

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If you’re looking for a dish that beautifully balances crunch, spice, and sweetness, then look no further than this deliciously addictive Crunchy Baked Hot Honey Cauliflower. This recipe transforms humble cauliflower into an irresistible snack or side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With a crispy exterior from the cornflake coating and a drizzle of hot honey that adds just the right amount of heat, this dish will surely become a favorite in your kitchen. Plus, it’s simple to make and packs a punch of flavor, making it an excellent option for gatherings, game days, or as a tasty weeknight side.

Why It Deserves a Spot

Crunchy Baked Hot Honey Cauliflower is not just another vegetable dish; it’s an explosion of flavor and texture. The cornflakes provide an amazing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender cauliflower, while the hot honey brings a delightful sweetness combined with a kick of heat. It’s a dish that appeals to everyone—vegetable lovers and skeptics alike—making it a versatile addition to any dinner table. Plus, it’s baked rather than fried, meaning you can enjoy this indulgent flavor with a little less guilt!

What You’ll Need

6 cups cornflakes (gluten-free if needed)
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
3 large eggs
3 tablespoons hot sauce
4-5 cups cauliflower florets
Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
1/2 cup honey
2-3 tablespoons hot sauce
1-3 teaspoons cayenne pepper
3/4 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Fresh thyme, cilantro, or parsley, for serving
1/2 cup plain whole milk Greek yogurt
1/4 cup olive oil mayo
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese or grated parmesan

Recommended Tools

Large baking sheet – for roasting the cauliflower and ensuring it gets crispy.
Mixing bowls – to combine the coating ingredients and wet mixture.
Whisk – for beating the eggs and mixing the sauces.
Food processor – for crushing the cornflakes if you prefer a finer coating.
Cooking spray – to prevent sticking on the baking sheet.

Directions: Crunchy Baked Hot Honey Cauliflower.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help achieve the perfect crunch on your cauliflower.

Step 2: Prepare the Cornflake Coating

In a large mixing bowl, crush the cornflakes into small pieces. You can do this by hand or pulse them briefly in a food processor. Add the grated parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder to the crushed cornflakes. Mix well to combine.

Step 3: Prepare the Cauliflower

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and hot sauce until well combined. Add the cauliflower florets to the egg mixture and toss to coat each piece evenly.

Step 4: Coat the Cauliflower

Take each cauliflower floret and dip it into the cornflake mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks. Place the coated florets on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil to help them crisp up while baking.

Step 5: Bake the Cauliflower

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy. Make sure to flip the florets halfway through for even cooking.

Step 6: Prepare the Hot Honey Sauce

While the cauliflower is baking, prepare the hot honey sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the honey, additional hot sauce, cayenne pepper, chipotle chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder. Heat over low until warmed through and well combined. Set aside.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once the cauliflower is done baking, remove it from the oven and drizzle the hot honey sauce generously over the top. Garnish with fresh thyme, cilantro, or parsley. For an extra touch, serve with a side of creamy Greek yogurt dip made from Greek yogurt, olive oil mayo, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, fresh chives, and seasoning.

Seasonal Spins

Spring: Add fresh herbs like dill or mint for a refreshing twist.
Summer: Serve with a zesty mango salsa to complement the flavors.
Fall: Incorporate pumpkin spice in the hot honey sauce for a seasonal flavor boost.
Winter: Pair with roasted Brussels sprouts for a hearty side dish.

Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them

Wet Cornflakes: Make sure to use dry cornflakes to avoid a soggy coating. Store them in an airtight container until ready to use.
Uneven Cooking: To ensure even cooking, make sure the cauliflower florets are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than baking.
Too Spicy: Adjust the amount of cayenne and hot sauce to your spice tolerance. You can always add more later if needed.
Burnt Cauliflower: Keep an eye on the cauliflower towards the end of the baking time. Ovens can vary in temperature, so check for doneness a few minutes early.

Prep Ahead & Store

This Crunchy Baked Hot Honey Cauliflower can be prepared ahead of time! You can coat the cauliflower florets and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to cover them tightly to avoid drying out. Once baked, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results to retain the crunch.

Quick Questions

Can I use frozen cauliflower florets for this recipe?

While fresh cauliflower is recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen florets. Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture.

What can I substitute for cornflakes?

You can use crushed gluten-free crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or even crushed nuts for a different flavor and texture.

Is there a way to make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! You can replace the eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water), and use a vegan mayo alternative for the dip.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your taste. Start with less hot sauce and cayenne, and add more to the hot honey sauce to suit your preference.

One Pan, More Ideas

Baked Buffalo Cauliflower Bites – A classic spicy treat.
Roasted Cauliflower Tacos – A delicious way to enjoy roasted cauliflower.
Vegan Cauliflower Buffalo Wings – Perfect for game day snacking.

Wrap-Up

Crunchy Baked Hot Honey Cauliflower is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds dancing. The combination of crispy cornflake coating, the rich flavor of parmesan, and the sweet, spicy hot honey will have you coming back for more. Whether you’re enjoying it on game day, serving it at a dinner party, or just indulging in a tasty snack, this dish is sure to impress. Don’t forget to experiment with the ingredients and find your perfect balance of spice and sweetness. Enjoy your culinary adventure with this delightful Crunchy Baked Hot Honey Cauliflower!