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Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower

Category: Perfect Pairings & Anytime Bites

This dish features cauliflower florets generously coated in a blend of olive oil, honey, sriracha, garlic powder, and paprika before baking. The high heat caramelizes the honey for a delicate sweetness, balanced by the heat of sriracha and aromatic spices. Baking at 425°F ensures tender florets with a lightly crisped exterior. Adjust spice and sweetness levels for personal preference and spread the cauliflower evenly for consistent cooking.

Perfect as a side or light entrée, this sweet and spicy baked cauliflower bursts with flavor and offers a satisfying texture contrast. Cooking it warm enhances the bold yet balanced notes, making it an appealing addition to a variety of meals.

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Breanna smiling at the camera.
Created By Breanna
Last updated on Mon, 17 Nov 2025 16:59:15 GMT
A plate of baked cauliflower with a sweet and spicy sauce. Save
A plate of baked cauliflower with a sweet and spicy sauce. | foodiffy.com

This sweet and spicy baked cauliflower is a perfect side dish when you want something easy yet full of flavor. The honey adds a gentle sweetness while the sriracha brings a balanced heat that makes you want more. It’s a quick way to dress up simple cauliflower into something memorable for a weeknight or a cozy weekend meal.

I first made this after pondering how to make cauliflower more exciting. It instantly became a favorite in my house and a go-to for busy nights.

Ingredients

  • Cauliflower head: cut into florets works as the hearty and nutritious base pick a firm one with tight, white florets
  • Olive oil: helps everything roast beautifully and adds a rich flavor extra virgin type works best here
  • Honey: offers natural sweetness that caramelizes in the oven use good quality honey for the best taste
  • Sriracha sauce: is key for a spicy kick adjust according to your heat preference and check the label for fresh sauce
  • Garlic powder: adds savory depth easily fresh garlic is great but powder distributes flavor evenly
  • Paprika: gives a subtle smokiness and color choose sweet or smoked variety based on your taste
  • Salt and pepper: season and balance the flavors freshly cracked pepper gives a nice touch

Instructions

Preheat The Oven:
Set your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit or 220 degrees Celsius. A hot oven ensures the cauliflower gets nicely caramelized without getting mushy.
Mix The Sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, honey, sriracha, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well until fully blended into a smooth sauce.
Coat The Cauliflower:
Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl with the sauce. Toss everything thoroughly so each floret is evenly coated with the sweet and spicy mixture.
Prepare The Baking Sheet:
Spread the coated cauliflower in a single layer on a baking sheet. Make sure the pieces are not crowded so they roast evenly and develop crispy edges.
Bake Until Tender:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 25 to 30 minutes. Check for tenderness by piercing with a fork and look for caramelized, golden spots.
Serve Warm:
Transfer the cauliflower to a serving dish and enjoy right away while it is warm and fragrant.
A plate of baked cauliflower with a spicy sauce.
A plate of baked cauliflower with a spicy sauce. | foodiffy.com

I love how honey and sriracha create a perfect balance that makes this dish addictive. It reminds me of sharing simple comfort food around the table with family, a memory I cherish every time I make it.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven for best texture instead of the microwave to keep the cauliflower from becoming soggy.

Ingredient Swaps

Maple syrup or agave nectar works well instead of honey for a different natural sweetness. If you want less heat, swap sriracha for mild chili sauce or omit it altogether for a sweet only version.

Serving Ideas

Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a light meal. Toss the baked cauliflower into a grain bowl with quinoa and greens for a nutritious lunch. It also works as a tasty topping on salads or tacos.

A plate of baked cauliflower with a spicy sauce.
A plate of baked cauliflower with a spicy sauce. | foodiffy.com

This recipe brings vibrant flavors to your table and is easy to customize. Enjoy the sweet and spicy balance as a new family favorite.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ What makes cauliflower caramelize when baked?

The natural sugars in honey and the cauliflower itself caramelize under high heat, creating a rich, golden-brown coating with deep flavor.

→ Can I adjust the spice level in this dish?

Yes, increasing or decreasing the sriracha sauce or adding red pepper flakes will change the heat to suit your taste.

→ Why preheat the oven to 425°F for this dish?

Preheating ensures the cauliflower cooks evenly and develops a nicely browned, caramelized surface without becoming soggy.

→ Is olive oil necessary for baking cauliflower this way?

Olive oil helps the spices adhere to the cauliflower and promotes even roasting, resulting in tender, flavorful pieces.

→ How do I ensure even cooking of cauliflower florets?

Spread the florets in a single layer on the baking sheet with space in between to allow hot air circulation for uniform roasting.

Sweet Spicy Baked Cauliflower

Tender cauliflower baked with a sweet honey and spicy sriracha glaze, offering a caramelized, vibrant flavor.

Preparation Time
10 mins
Time to Cook
30 mins
Overall Time
40 mins
Created By: Breanna

Type of Recipe: Sides & Snacks

Cooking Difficulty: Suitable for Beginners

Cultural Origin: Fusion

Portion Size: 4 Number of Servings

Dietary Options: Good for Vegetarians, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients Required

→ Vegetables

01 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets

→ Sauces and Oils

02 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 2 tablespoons honey
04 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce

→ Spices and Seasonings

05 1 teaspoon garlic powder
06 1 teaspoon paprika
07 Salt and black pepper, to taste

Guide to Cooking

Step 01

Set the oven to 220°C and allow it to fully preheat.

Step 02

Combine olive oil, honey, sriracha, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl.

Step 03

Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and toss thoroughly to ensure each piece is evenly coated with the sauce.

Step 04

Spread the coated cauliflower florets evenly on a baking sheet to allow for uniform cooking.

Step 05

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the florets are tender and caramelized at the edges.

Step 06

Remove from oven and serve immediately while warm.

Extra Suggestions

  1. For heightened heat, incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes. Adjust honey and sriracha according to desired sweetness and spice intensity. Ensure florets are spread evenly on the baking sheet for consistent caramelization.

Necessary Equipment

  • Oven
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet

Allergen Info

Always check ingredient labels for allergens, and talk to a health expert if you’re unsure.
  • Contains honey; not suitable for strict vegans

Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

Nutrition facts are for general information and shouldn’t replace professional health advice.
  • Energy (Calories): 150
  • Fats: 7 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Protein: 3 g