Sweet with a kick — hot honey is the flavor you didn’t know your kitchen was missing. This spicy-sweet condiment can be drizzled over everything from crispy chicken to gooey pizza slices. It adds instant flair and a bold, unexpected twist to both savory and sweet dishes. Make sure to try our Hot Honey Ranch while you are at it—its a creamy, tangy dip that takes things to the next level.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Honey – The main ingredient in this recipe, providing natural sweetness and a smooth texture.
- Red Pepper Flakes – These bring the heat! Adjust the amount to control the spice level, and remember that the longer the honey sits, the hotter it will become. Straining the flakes can reduce intensity.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavor!
Adjusting the Spiciness of Hot Honey
Customizing the heat level is easy:
- Want it spicier? Add more red pepper flakes.
- Prefer it milder? Use fewer flakes or strain them out after infusing.
- If the honey sits for a while and becomes too hot, simply strain out the flakes using a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to mellow the heat.
Delicious Ways to Use Hot Honey
This versatile condiment can transform both sweet and savory dishes. Here are some tasty ideas:
- As a dip for your chicken tenders or as a drizzle over chicken cutlets
- Drizzle over pizza (like our Crazy Crust Pizza) for a spicy-sweet finish.
- Spread over warm biscuits or Cornbread.
- Stir into barbecue sauce, marinades, or Roasted Broccoli Salad.
- Toss with roasted vegetables for a caramelized kick.
How to Store Hot Honey
Store hot honey in a sealed glass jar or airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to six months, but always check for signs of spoilage, such as unusual odors or mold. Keep in mind that the longer it sits, the spicier it will become!
Hot Honey is an easy way to elevate your dishes with a perfect blend of sweetness and spice. Whether you drizzle, mix, or dip, this homemade condiment is sure to become a kitchen staple!
Hot Honey
Ingredients
- 1 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Add honey and red pepper flakes to a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Heat until small bubbles form along the edges of the pan (stir frequently). Do not let the honey come to a full boil.
- Remove from heat and set aside to rest for 10 minutes (allowing the spices to finfuse into the honey).
- Stir in the vinegar.
- Transfer to a jar with a lid and store in the refrigerator. The flavor will continue to intensify over time.
- Optional: To lessen the spice, strain out some or all of the red pepper flakes before storing.*
Notes
This recipe is adapted from Iamhomesteader’s Hot Honey.
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