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Air Fryer Keto Cauliflower Wings (Baking Powder Trick)

Florets tossed with oil, a spice blend, and a little baking powder that dries the surface, then air fried in two stages for a shatter-crisp edge.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 16 minutes
Total Time 31 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Calories: 130
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 medium head cauliflower 1.5 to 2 lb, cut into 1.5-inch florets
  • 2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp aluminium-free baking powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp neutral oil
  • 2 tbsp butter optional, for a buffalo finish
  • 1/4 cup hot sauce optional

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Large bowl
  • Wire rack

Method
 

  1. Rinse the florets, spin or shake them dry, then air-dry 10 minutes on a rack while the air fryer preheats to 400°F.
  2. Toss the florets with the oil until glossy, not greasy. Combine the salt, baking powder, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, and pepper and toss it through as a light dusting.
  3. Rest 5 minutes; the coating tightens as the salt and baking powder draw out and dry the surface moisture.
  4. Arrange in a single layer with finger-width gaps and cook 8 minutes. Shake hard to flip, then cook 6 to 8 minutes more until deep golden with a few charred tips. Raise to 420°F for the final 2 minutes for extra shatter.
  5. Toss with the butter melted into the hot sauce if you want buffalo wings.

Notes

Aluminium-free baking powder only — regular can leave a metallic taste. A light dusting, not a breading.
Even 1.5-inch florets cook through without burning the edges.
Work in batches rather than crowd the basket.