Here is a simple hot honey to add sweet heat to many dishes.
Hot honey is sweet honey warmed with spicy flavors. It adds a bright, spicy kick to plain foods. Try it on toast from a list of toast recipes for breakfast for a fast, tasty bite.
Why make this recipe
This hot honey is quick and needs few items. You can make it in one pan and keep it for weeks. It makes simple foods taste special, such as bread, chicken, or cheese. For a plated idea, see how it pairs with crispy flatbread with brie and cranberries.
How to make Hot Honey Recipe
Ingredients :
- 1 cup Honey (Choose a high-quality honey)
- 1 tablespoon Hot sauce (Use a vinegar-based hot sauce like Frank’s Original or Tapatio)
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Cayenne pepper (Adjust based on heat preference)
- Chili flakes (optional, for extra heat)
Directions :
- In a small saucepan, combine the honey, hot sauce, minced garlic, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Place the saucepan over low heat. Gently warm the mixture, stirring occasionally for about 5 to 10 minutes.
- Taste your hot honey. If you want it spicier, add more cayenne pepper or chili flakes and stir well.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly. If desired, strain out the garlic pieces for a smoother honey.
- Pour the hot honey into a clean jar or container. Allow it to cool completely before sealing it with a lid.
For a quick meal idea, drizzle it over a 20-minute honey garlic chicken for extra heat and shine.
How to serve Hot Honey Recipe
Drizzle hot honey over fried chicken, baked pizza, roasted vegetables, or soft cheeses. It works well on biscuits, yogurt, and ice cream too. Try it on roasted carrots with a dollop of ricotta for a sweet-spicy side like this roasted carrots with whipped ricotta and hot honey idea.
How to store Hot Honey Recipe
Keep the hot honey in a clean jar with a tight lid. Store it at room temperature in a cool, dark place. It will keep for several weeks. If it thickens, warm the jar gently in a bowl of warm water before using.
Tips to make Hot Honey Recipe
- Use a good quality honey for best flavor.
- Warm gently on low heat so the honey does not burn.
- Taste as you go and add cayenne or chili flakes slowly.
- To remove garlic bits, strain the honey through a fine mesh.
- Make extra for gifts or party use — it stores well. See party ideas in this best Friendsgiving recipes list.
Variation (if any)
- For citrus notes, add a strip of lemon or orange peel while warming and remove before bottling.
- For smokier heat, use smoked paprika instead of cayenne.
- For extra punch, use chopped fresh chiles instead of hot sauce.
Homemade Hot Honey Recipe
FAQs
Q: How long does hot honey last?
A: Stored in a clean jar at room temperature, it lasts several weeks. If it smells off, throw it out.
Q: Can I use any honey?
A: Yes, but high-quality honey gives better flavor. Mild honey keeps the spice clear.
Q: Do I need to refrigerate it?
A: No. Room temperature is fine. If it crystalizes, warm it gently.
Q: Can I skip the garlic?
A: Yes. The garlic gives depth, but you can leave it out for plain hot honey.
Q: Is hot sauce required?
A: You can use fresh chiles or chili flakes instead of hot sauce if you prefer.
Conclusion
For a basic step-by-step guide, you can compare this recipe with a similar version at Gimme Some Oven’s hot honey recipe. If you want a casual home cook view, check Casual Foodist’s homemade hot honey recipe. For a cheese-friendly take, read the notes at Cheese From Scratch on how to make homemade hot honey. For a very simple pitch, see With Spice’s hot honey post. For one more home-style version, look at Host The Toast’s homemade hot honey recipe.
Hot Honey
Ingredients
Method
- In a small saucepan, combine the honey, hot sauce, minced garlic, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Place the saucepan over low heat. Gently warm the mixture, stirring occasionally for about 5 to 10 minutes.
- Taste your hot honey. If you want it spicier, add more cayenne pepper or chili flakes and stir well.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly. If desired, strain out the garlic pieces for a smoother honey.
- Pour the hot honey into a clean jar or container. Allow it to cool completely before sealing it with a lid.