Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this irresistible Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower recipe! This dish perfectly balances bold, spicy flavors with a touch of sweetness, creating a mouthwatering side dish or appetizer that’s sure to impress. Roasted to crispy perfection, these cauliflower florets are coated in a delectable sauce that will have you coming back for more. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack option or a flavorful accompaniment to your main meal, this sweet and spicy baked cauliflower is a must-try.
Table of Contents
Health Benefits of Cauliflower
Not only is this sweet and spicy baked cauliflower incredibly delicious, but it’s also a nutritional powerhouse. Cauliflower is a member of the cruciferous vegetable family, known for its impressive health benefits. It’s low in calories yet high in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Incorporating more cauliflower into your diet can support a healthy immune system, aid in digestion, and even help reduce the risk of certain types of cancer. This versatile veggie is a fantastic choice for those seeking a nutrient-dense, low-carb option that can be enjoyed in a variety of flavorful ways.
Ingredients Needed
To make this sweet and spicy baked cauliflower recipe, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s dive into the easy-to-follow instructions for preparing this delectable sweet and spicy baked cauliflower:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, sriracha, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the Cauliflower: Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and toss until they are fully coated with the sauce.
- Bake: Spread the coated cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping the florets halfway, until they are golden and slightly crispy.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the sweet and spicy baked cauliflower from the oven and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped cilantro, if desired. Serve hot as a side dish or appetizer.

Serving Suggestions
This sweet and spicy baked cauliflower is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Serve it as a side dish alongside grilled proteins, such as chicken, steak, or salmon, for a well-rounded and flavorful meal. It also makes a fantastic appetizer, perfect for game days or social gatherings. Consider pairing it with cooling dips like ranch or blue cheese for a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
Variations of the Recipe
If you’d like to customize this sweet and spicy baked cauliflower recipe, there are plenty of ways to do so. Try experimenting with different spice blends, such as Cajun seasoning or smoked paprika, to alter the flavor profile. You can also adjust the heat level by adding more or less sriracha sauce to suit your personal preferences. For a crunchy topping, consider tossing the roasted cauliflower with panko breadcrumbs or crushed nuts before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower vegan?
Absolutely! To make this recipe vegan, simply substitute the honey with an equal amount of maple syrup or agave nectar. You can also use a vegan-friendly soy sauce or tamari in place of the regular soy sauce.
How do I store leftover baked cauliflower?
Store any leftover sweet and spicy baked cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place the cauliflower on a baking sheet and warm it in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
What are some good dipping sauces for this dish?
The sweet and spicy baked cauliflower is delicious on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces. Try serving it with ranch, blue cheese, or even a creamy garlic dip. For a healthier option, a simple yogurt-based dip or a zesty chimichurri sauce would also be a great accompaniment.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for cauliflower, you can easily adapt it to include other roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or even a medley of mixed veggies. Simply adjust the baking time as needed to ensure the vegetables are cooked through and crispy.
More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy
- Honey Sriracha Brussels Sprouts
- Crispy Garlic Parmesan Alfredo Bites
- Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops
- Shrimp and Sausage Dirty Rice
Conclusion
Elevate your weeknight dinners or game day snacks with this irresistible Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower recipe. The perfect balance of bold flavors and a delightful crunch make this dish a surefire hit. Whether you’re looking for a healthy, low-carb option or simply craving a delicious and satisfying side, this sweet and spicy baked cauliflower is sure to please. Give it a try and prepare to be wowed by the incredible flavors!
Looking for more visual inspiration? Follow me on Pinterest, where I share new recipes, dinner tips, and behind-the-scenes kitchen moments every week. Buon appetito!
Print
Discover the Amazing Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower Recipe
- Total Time: 35
- Yield: 4 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this irresistible Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower recipe! This dish perfectly balances bold, spicy flavors with a touch of sweetness, creating a mouthwatering side dish or appetizer that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, sriracha, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and toss until they are fully coated with the sauce.
4. Spread the coated cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping the florets halfway, until they are golden and slightly crispy.
5. Remove the sweet and spicy baked cauliflower from the oven and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped cilantro, if desired. Serve hot as a side dish or appetizer.
Notes
This sweet and spicy baked cauliflower is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Serve it as a side dish alongside grilled proteins, such as chicken, steak, or salmon, for a well-rounded and flavorful meal. It also makes a fantastic appetizer, perfect for game days or social gatherings. Consider pairing it with cooling dips like ranch or blue cheese for a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10
- Sodium: 300
- Fat: 7
- Saturated Fat: 1
- Unsaturated Fat: 0
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 0
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 9
- Cholesterol: 0