Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower is a bold, flavorful dish that turns simple cauliflower florets into a crave-worthy snack or side. Coated in a sticky, tangy sauce with just the right amount of heat and sweetness, this oven-roasted veggie dish is perfect for game day, meatless meals, or anytime you want something exciting and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe takes cauliflower to the next level with a sweet and spicy glaze that caramelizes in the oven. It’s healthy, easy to make, and packed with flavor. Whether you serve it as a snack, appetizer, or meatless main, you’ll love how crispy, saucy, and satisfying every bite is — without deep frying.

ingredients

Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower 10 Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower is a bold, flavorful dish that turns simple cauliflower florets into a crave-worthy snack or side. Coated in a sticky, tangy sauce with just the right amount of heat and sweetness, this oven-roasted veggie dish is perfect for game day, meatless meals, or anytime you want something exciting and delicious.

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the cauliflower:

Cauliflower head, cut into bite-sized florets
All-purpose flour
Cornstarch
Garlic powder
Salt
Water or milk (dairy or non-dairy)
Olive oil or cooking spray

For the sweet and spicy sauce:

Honey or maple syrup
Sriracha or your favorite hot sauce
Soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
Rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
Garlic, minced
Cornstarch + water (for thickening)

directions

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly greased foil.
Make the batter: In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, and water (or milk) until smooth.
Coat the cauliflower: Dip each floret into the batter, shake off excess, and place on the baking sheet in a single layer.
Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and slightly crisp.
Make the sauce: While cauliflower bakes, combine honey, sriracha, soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer. Mix cornstarch with water and stir into the sauce. Simmer until thickened, about 2–3 minutes.
Toss and finish: Remove cauliflower from oven, toss gently in the sauce, and return to the baking sheet. Bake for another 10 minutes until caramelized and sticky.
Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, or cilantro. Serve hot with rice, noodles, or as a finger food.

Servings and timing

Serves 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

Extra crispy: Bake with panko breadcrumbs or air fry for even more crunch.
Buffalo style: Swap honey-sriracha with buffalo sauce and dip in ranch or blue cheese.
Make it vegan: Use maple syrup instead of honey and plant-based milk.
Add sesame oil: For extra flavor in the sauce.
Make it a meal: Serve over jasmine rice or quinoa with steamed veggies.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 375°F to crisp back up. Avoid microwaving to preserve texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Yes, but thaw and pat dry thoroughly to avoid soggy results.

Is this dish spicy?

Mild to medium, depending on the amount of sriracha. Adjust to your heat preference.

Can I fry instead of bake?

Yes, but baking is healthier and still gets nicely crisp. Air frying is another great option.

What flour works best?

All-purpose flour is standard, but chickpea or rice flour also works for gluten-free options.

Can I skip the batter?

For a lighter version, roast plain cauliflower and toss in sauce after baking.

What’s the best dipping sauce?

Try ranch, spicy mayo, or a yogurt-based dip to cool the heat.

Can I meal prep this?

Yes — prep and bake the cauliflower ahead, then reheat and toss in sauce when ready to eat.

Can I make it oil-free?

Yes, skip the oil or use a silicone baking mat. It won’t brown quite as much, but it’ll still be tasty.

How do I keep the sauce from burning?

Watch it closely after tossing in sauce — bake just until sticky and caramelized, not charred.

Is this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free flour and tamari to make it fully gluten-free.

Conclusion

Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower is a flavorful, crowd-pleasing recipe that transforms humble cauliflower into a standout dish. With its crispy edges, sticky glaze, and bold taste, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or anytime you want to spice up your veggie game. Try it once, and you’ll be hooked!