Hot honey is the perfect balance of sweet and spicy, bringing a bold kick to everything from pizza and fried chicken to biscuits and roasted vegetables. This simple homemade recipe lets you customize the heat level to your liking, creating a delicious drizzle that enhances both savory and sweet dishes.
Hot Honey Recipe
1
servings5
minutes5
minutes64
kcal10
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
340 g 1 cup honey
3 teaspoons 3 teaspoons red pepper flakes
1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 pinch 1 pinch salt
Equipment
Saucepan- Whisk
- jar
Directions
- In a small saucepan over low heat, add the honey and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir occasionally and let it warm for about 5 minutes. Avoid boiling, as it can change the flavor.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vinegar. This balances the sweetness with a subtle tang.
- For a smooth hot honey, strain out the red pepper flakes using a fine mesh strainer. If you prefer more heat, leave them in.
- Let the hot honey cool slightly, then transfer it to a clean glass jar or bottle. Store at room temperature for up to three months.
Notes
- Adjust the Heat: Use more or fewer chili flakes depending on your spice tolerance. For extra heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper or sliced fresh chili.
How spicy is hot honey?
The heat level depends on how many chili flakes you use. Start with 2 teaspoons for mild heat and increase if you prefer it spicier. You can also use different peppers like habanero or chipotle for unique flavors.
Can I make hot honey without red pepper flakes?
Yes! You can use fresh chilies, hot sauce, or even chili powder. If using fresh chilies, slice them and simmer them in the honey before straining.
How long does homemade hot honey last?
Hot honey can last up to three months when stored in a sealed jar at room temperature. Avoid refrigeration, as it can make the honey crystallize.
What can I use hot honey for?
Hot honey is super versatile! Drizzle it on pizza, fried chicken, biscuits, roasted veggies, and even ice cream. It also works well in cocktails, tea, and salad dressings.
Why add vinegar to hot honey?
A little vinegar (like apple cider or white vinegar) adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness, making the flavors more complex and well-rounded.
Can I use fresh chili peppers instead of dried flakes?
Yes! Simply chop the fresh chilies and heat them in the honey. Strain them out if you want a smooth consistency.
What if my hot honey becomes too thick?
If your hot honey thickens or crystallizes over time, gently warm it in a saucepan or microwave for a few seconds to restore its smooth texture.
Does hot honey need to be refrigerated?
No, hot honey should be stored at room temperature in an airtight container. Refrigeration can cause it to harden or crystallize.
Can I make smoky hot honey?
Yes! Use smoked paprika, chipotle flakes, or infuse with smoked chilies to add a rich, smoky depth to your hot honey.
