Go Back
Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower

Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower

Tender roasted cauliflower gets tossed in a sticky chili-honey glaze with just the right kick. It’s quick, bold, and crowd-pleasing.
Rate This Yum Pin This Recipe For Later! Share The Yum On Facebook Print
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients
 

Main Ingredients

  • 7.5 cup cauliflower florets
  • 2.5 tbsp olive oil
  • 2.5 tbsp cornstarch for light crisping
  • 1 tsp kosher salt or to taste
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.75 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.33 cup honey or maple syrup
  • 2.5 tbsp sriracha
  • 1.5 tbsp soy sauce low-sodium if preferred
  • 1.5 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 2 tsp minced garlic
  • 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
  • 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
  • 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes optional heat
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds for garnish
  • 0.25 cup sliced scallions for garnish
  • 1 tbsp fresh lime juice for finishing

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a large sheet pan with parchment.
  • Pat the cauliflower dry. Toss with olive oil in a large bowl to coat.
  • Sprinkle in cornstarch, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Toss again until evenly dusted.
  • Spread florets on the pan, leaving space. Bake 15 minutes, then flip and roast 10–12 minutes more until browned and tender.
  • While it roasts, simmer honey, sriracha, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes in a small saucepan for 2–3 minutes until glossy.
  • Transfer hot cauliflower to a bowl. Pour over the warm sauce and toss gently to coat every piece.
  • Return glazed cauliflower to the pan and bake 3–5 minutes to set the glaze.
  • Finish with lime juice. Shower with sesame seeds and scallions, then serve immediately.

Notes

Variation: Swap honey for maple syrup to make it vegan, or add roasted chickpeas for extra protein and crunch. Serve over steamed rice or stuffed into lettuce cups. Store leftovers airtight up to 3 days; reheat in a hot oven or air fryer to revive crisp edges.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.