Dinner

Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower Recipe

Name: Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option); 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free); 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; Chopped green onions; Sesame seeds

Byreem everly December 4, 2025December 4, 2025

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Introduction

Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower is a deliciously flavorful side dish that combines a perfect balance of heat and sweetness. It’s easy to prepare, making it great for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer. With simple ingredients and bold flavors, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

A white plate holds a stack of roasted cauliflower florets with a golden brown crust. The cauliflower is covered with a thick, glossy dark reddish-brown sauce that glistens under the light. Scattered on top are thin slices of bright green spring onions, small red chili pieces, and white sesame seeds. The texture of the cauliflower is slightly crispy on the outside and soft inside. In the background, there is a white cup of black coffee, slightly blurred, set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Chopped green onions (for garnish, optional)
Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey or maple syrup, soy sauce or tamari, sriracha, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 3: Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and toss to evenly coat them with the sauce.
Step 4: Spread the coated cauliflower florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 5: Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the cauliflower is tender and caramelized.
Step 6: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a milder version, reduce the amount of sriracha or substitute with a milder chili sauce.
Try adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving to brighten the flavors.
For extra crunch, sprinkle the cauliflower with panko breadcrumbs before baking.
Use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep the dish gluten-free.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to retain crispiness, or warm gently in the microwave, though it may be less crispy.

How to Serve

A white plate holds several roasted cauliflower florets stacked in a small pile, each floret golden brown with crispy edges. The florets are covered with a thick, glossy reddish-brown sauce that drips slightly onto the plate. On top and around the cauliflower are scattered bright green sliced scallions and a few small red chili pieces, adding color contrast. White sesame seeds are sprinkled over the sauce, giving extra texture. A silver fork is placed on the right side of the plate, and in the blurred background there is a white cup and soft white fabric on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

While fresh cauliflower works best for roasting, you can use frozen cauliflower. Make sure to thaw and drain it well before coating and baking to avoid sogginess.