Hot honey is a delightful condiment that combines the natural sweetness of honey with a kick of spice from chili peppers. This homemade hot honey recipe is easy to make at home and perfect for adding a sweet and spicy drizzle to your favorite dishes. Whether you're looking to elevate fried chicken, pizza, or even cocktails, this versatile honey sauce brings the perfect balance of heat and flavor.
Key Takeaways: Hot honey is made by infusing honey with chili flakes or peppers and often a touch of vinegar for tang. It's simple to prepare in under 10 minutes and stores well at room temperature. Customize the heat level to suit your taste for mild, medium, or extra spicy versions.
Hot Honey
Hot honey is a trendy condiment that's essentially spicy honey infused with chili peppers. It's made by heating honey with red pepper flakes or other chilies to extract their heat and flavor. This basic hot honey offers a sweet heat that's addictive and versatile in both savory and sweet applications.
The popularity of hot honey has surged in recent years, appearing in everything from restaurant menus to home kitchens. According to various culinary sources, it's prized for its ability to add depth to dishes without overwhelming them. At https://khaashoney.com/, we recommend using high-quality local honey or raw honey as the base to enhance the natural flavors.
Make Hot Honey
To make hot honey, start by gently heating honey with your choice of spicy elements like crushed red pepper flakes or dried chili. This infuses the honey with heat without boiling it vigorously, preserving its natural properties. The process is straightforward and requires minimal equipment—just a saucepan and a jar for storage.
Begin with 1 cup of honey in a small saucepan over low heat. Add 2-3 teaspoons of red pepper flakes and stir occasionally until small bubbles form. Remove from heat and let it infuse for 5-10 minutes before straining if desired. This method ensures the honey absorbs the spicy essence evenly.
Hot Honey Recipe
This hot honey recipe is easy to make and uses just a few ingredients. Combine honey, chili flakes, and a splash of apple cider vinegar for tang. Heat the mixture briefly, then let it cool to room temperature.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup honey (clover honey or regular honey works well)
- 2-3 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes or chili flakes
- 1-2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
- Pour the honey into a small saucepan.
- Add the red pepper flakes and heat over medium heat until it simmers gently.
- Remove from heat and stir in the apple cider vinegar.
- Let the honey cool, then strain through a fine mesh if you prefer a smoother texture.
- Transfer to a jar and store at room temperature.
This recipe yields about 1 cup and can be scaled up for a larger batch of hot honey.
Use Hot Honey
Use hot honey to add a drizzle of sweet heat to various dishes. It's fantastic on fried chicken, where the spicy hot honey glaze creates a crispy, flavorful coating. Drizzle it over pizza for an unexpected twist that balances cheese and toppings.
Incorporate hot honey into salads or roasted vegetables for a touch of heat and sweetness. It's also great in marinades for chicken wings or as a topping for cornbread. The ways to use hot honey are endless, making it a staple condiment in many kitchens.
Homemade Hot Honey
Homemade hot honey allows you to control the ingredients and heat level perfectly. Unlike store-bought versions, you can adjust the spice to your preference using fresh or dried peppers. This easy hot honey recipe is made by infusing honey with chili pepper for that signature sweet and spicy profile.
Start with your favorite type of honey, like raw honey or clover honey, for the best results. The infusion process is simple and results in a versatile honey sauce that's better than anything from a bottle.
Pepper
Pepper, particularly chili pepper or hot pepper, is key to creating the heat in hot honey. Use dried pepper like crushed red pepper flakes for convenience, or opt for fresh chili peppers for a more intense flavor. The type of pepper you choose directly impacts the heat level.
For milder versions, stick with basic red pepper flakes. If you want more fire, try dried chili or even habanero flakes. Always adjust the amount to suit your tolerance for spicy hot sensations.
Condiment
As a condiment, hot honey shines in its ability to enhance meals with minimal effort. This hot honey sauce can be used like hot sauce but with added sweetness. It's ideal for dipping, drizzling, or mixing into recipes.
Think of it as a upgrade to regular honey mustard, offering sweet heat that pairs well with savory foods. Its versatility makes it a must-have in any pantry.
Hot Honey Ingredients
Hot honey ingredients are simple: honey, some form of chili, and often vinegar. The honey provides the base, while red pepper flakes or chili flakes deliver the spice. Apple cider vinegar adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness.
You can experiment with favorites like your preferred hot sauce for added complexity. Use fresh or dried elements to customize the flavor profile.
Ways to Use Hot Honey
There are countless ways to use hot honey beyond the basics. Drizzle it on biscuits or cornbread for breakfast. Add a spoonful to a hot toddy or cocktail for a spicy twist.
Use it in glazes for roasted meats or vegetables. Even desserts like ice cream benefit from a hot honey drizzle, creating a unique sweet and spicy experience.
- On fried chicken or chicken wings for a sticky glaze
- In cocktails or as a rim for margaritas
- Drizzled over cheese boards or baked brie
- Mixed into salad dressings for heat and sweetness
- As a topping for pizza or flatbreads
Easy Hot Honey
Easy hot honey comes together in minutes with basic pantry staples. This no-fuss approach makes it accessible for beginners. Simply heat and stir for quick results.
The recipe is forgiving, allowing you to adjust the heat and flavor as needed. It's an easy to make at home option that saves money compared to buying pre-made versions.
Store Hot Honey
Store hot honey at room temperature in an airtight jar. It remains shelf-stable due to honey's natural preservatives, lasting up to several months. Avoid refrigeration, as it can cause crystallization.
If it does crystallize, gently warm the jar in hot water to restore its liquid form. Always check for any signs of spoilage before use, though it's rare with proper storage.
Drizzle
A drizzle of hot honey can transform ordinary dishes into something special. Use it sparingly at first to gauge the heat level. This simple addition brings sweet heat to everything from appetizers to mains.
Experiment with drizzling over eggs, avocado toast, or even fruit salads for surprising flavor combinations.
Homemade Hot Honey Recipe
This homemade hot honey recipe is straightforward and customizable. Gather your ingredients: honey, chili flakes, and vinegar. Heat the honey gently to infuse without burning.
After infusing, strain the honey if you prefer no bits. This results in a smooth spicy honey ready for use.
Honey Sauce
Honey sauce like hot honey sauce adds flair to meals. It's thicker than traditional hot sauce but packs similar punch with added sweetness. Use it as a dipping sauce or glaze.
Combine with other elements like mustard for a honey mustard variation with heat.
Hot Honey Sauce
Hot honey sauce is essentially the infused product ready for application. It can be thinned with more vinegar if needed for pouring. This version is great for recipes requiring a pourable consistency.
Use Fresh
Use fresh chili peppers for a brighter, more vibrant heat in your hot honey. Slice them thinly before infusing to maximize flavor extraction. Fresh options like jalapeños add moisture and intensity.
If using fresh, consider straining to remove solids after infusion.
Hot Sauce
Incorporate your favorite hot sauce into hot honey for extra depth. A few dashes can replace or supplement chili flakes. This creates a hybrid that's tangy and spicy.
Choose a vinegar-based hot sauce to complement the apple cider vinegar.
Red Pepper Flakes
Red pepper flakes are a go-to for hot honey due to their availability and consistent heat. They provide a medium heat level that's adjustable. Crush them further if you want quicker infusion.
Chili Flakes
Chili flakes, similar to red pepper flakes, offer flexibility in spice. Use them whole or crushed for different textures. They're ideal for dried pepper infusions.
Vinegar
Vinegar, especially apple cider vinegar, cuts through the sweetness and adds acidity. It helps balance the flavors and can extend shelf life slightly. Add it after heating to preserve its tang.
Chili Pepper
Chili pepper varieties allow for heat customization. From mild to scorching, select based on preference. Dried chili works well for long-term storage.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is preferred for its mild fruitiness that pairs with honey. It enhances the overall profile without overpowering. Use raw versions for added benefits.
Heat Level
The heat level in hot honey can be mild, medium, or hot. Adjust by varying the amount of peppers or infusion time. Start low and taste as you go to achieve your desired level of heat.
Room Temperature
Keep hot honey at room temperature for easy pouring. This prevents hardening and maintains usability. A cool, dark pantry is ideal.
Easy Hot Honey Recipe
This easy hot honey recipe requires no special skills. Just heat, infuse, and cool. It's perfect for beginners wanting to learn how to make basic hot honey.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
Crushed red pepper flakes are coarser than powder, providing visible specks and steady heat. They're widely available and reliable for consistent results.
Cocktail
Add hot honey to cocktails for a spicy sweet element. It works in margaritas, old fashioneds, or hot toddies. Dissolve a spoonful in warm liquid first for smooth mixing.
Dried Pepper
Dried pepper is convenient and shelf-stable for hot honey. It infuses well without adding excess moisture. Options include various heat levels for customization.
Hot Honey at Home
Making hot honey at home is cost-effective and fun. Control quality with your choice of honey and spices. It's fresher than store-bought and customizable.
Make Hot Honey at Home
To make hot honey at home, use a clean saucepan and jar. The process takes about 15 minutes total. Enjoy the satisfaction of a DIY condiment.
Type of Honey
The type of honey affects flavor—clover honey is neutral, while wildflower adds floral notes. Raw honey retains more nutrients. Choose based on your intended uses.
Learn How to Make
Learn how to make hot honey through simple trial and error. Start with basic recipes and experiment. Soon, you'll have your signature version.
Basic Hot Honey
Basic hot honey uses just honey and chili flakes. Add vinegar for enhancement. This foundation allows for endless variations.
Hot honey made with dried peppers is straightforward and long-lasting. It's the go-to for most home cooks.
Recipe Variations
Customize your hot honey with these ideas:
- With Hot Sauce: Stir in a teaspoon of your favorite hot sauce after removing from heat for extra tang and complexity.
- Fresh Peppers: Use sliced fresh chili peppers like jalapeños or habaneros for a brighter heat. Infuse longer for intensity.
- Sous Vide Method: For precise control, seal ingredients in a bag and cook sous vide at 140°F for 1-2 hours.
- Oven Infusion: Bake at low temperature (200°F) for 30 minutes if stovetop isn't available.
- Vegan Options: Honey is naturally vegan-alternative if using agave, but traditional recipes stick with real honey.
These variations let you adjust the heat and flavor to your liking.
More Tips for Perfect Hot Honey
- Infuse the honey slowly over low heat to avoid burning.
- Strain the honey through a fine mesh sieve for a clear product, or leave flakes in for texture.
- Remove it from the heat once it simmers to prevent caramelization.
- Let the honey cool completely before jarring.
- Heat and stir occasionally if it separates over time.
Hot honey can be used in creative ways, like in spicy hot honey marinades or as a base for hot honey mustard.
Benefits and History
Hot honey traces back to culinary traditions blending sweet and heat, popularized recently in American cuisine. Capsaicin from peppers may offer metabolism boosts, while honey provides antioxidants. According to food experts, this combination enhances flavor absorption in dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is hot honey made? Hot honey is made by heating honey with chili flakes or peppers, then adding vinegar for balance. Simmer gently and strain if desired.
Is hot honey just honey and chilli flakes? Yes, at its simplest, but many recipes add vinegar for tang.
Why do you add vinegar to hot honey? Vinegar adds acidity to balance sweetness and enhances flavor extraction from peppers.
What is hot honey rub made of? A hot honey rub typically includes hot honey mixed with spices like salt, garlic, and paprika for meats.
How do you make hot honey recipe? Follow the steps: heat honey with flakes, simmer, add vinegar, cool, and store.
What is hot honey recipe? It's a simple infusion of honey with spicy elements for a sweet-heat condiment.
Can I adjust the heat level of hot honey? Yes, by varying the amount of peppers or infusion time.
Can I just buy hot honey? Yes, but making it at home is cheaper and customizable.
Can I substitute a different hot sauce? Absolutely, use any vinegar-based hot sauce to taste.
Can I use fresh peppers to make hot honey? Yes, slice them and infuse, but strain well.
Can I use hot sauce? Yes, add it post-heating for extra kick.
Can it remain in the pantry or does it need to go into the fridge because of the vinegar? It can stay in the pantry; vinegar doesn't require refrigeration.
Can you imagine how many meals you can make instantly better with just a little drizzle of sweet heat? Countless—from breakfast to dinner, hot honey elevates them all.
Can you use sriracha as the hot sauce? Yes, sriracha adds garlic and sweetness that complements honey.
Chile, Chili, or Chilli: How do you spell the spicy pepper? All are acceptable, depending on regional English variations.
Do I have to strain the chili flakes from the honey? No, it's optional; leaving them adds texture and ongoing infusion.
Do I need to refrigerate hot honey? No, store at room temperature.
Do you have to refrigerate this since introducing apple cider vinegar to the recipe? No, it's still shelf-stable.
Drizzled on everything from pizza, biscuits, fried chicken, baked salmon, shrimp boil, roasted veggies, cornbread, baked brie, or corn on the cob? Yes, it's versatile for all these and more.
Egg-topped toast with a drizzle on top? Perfect for a quick, flavorful breakfast.
Firstly, why not blend the vinegar in before heating, so the extra fluid can protect against burning? You can, but adding after preserves vinegar's fresh tang.
Fluffy waffles with fried chicken and some sweet heat? A classic combination that's irresistible.
For fresh peppers (habanero or scotch bonnet), do you recommend putting them in whole or chopped up (after removing the seeds)? Chopped for better infusion, seeds optional for extra heat.
Go the breakfast route: Bacon or sausage with a slick coat of hot honey? Yes, it caramelizes beautifully.
Have you tried this Homemade Hot Honey? It's a game-changer for home cooks.
Have you tried this hot honey? Once you do, you'll be hooked.
Hot honey?? Yes, the sweet-spicy sensation everyone's raving about.
How do you make hot honey sauce? By infusing honey with heat and adding vinegar.
How do you store the hot honey after you put in glass containers? In a cool, dark place at room temperature.
How do you store this hot honey? Airtight jar in the pantry.
How do you use hot honey? Drizzle, glaze, mix, or dip.
How long can you store homemade hot honey? Up to 3-6 months.
How long does homemade hot honey last? Several months if stored properly.
How long does hot honey last? Indefinitely, but best within 6 months.
How long will hot honey last? Months at room temp.
How long will this hot honey keep? 3-6 months.
How many weeks will the hot honey sauce last? 12-24 weeks.
How spicy is hot honey? Customizable from mild to very hot.
However, I just wondering what is the purpose of the vinegar? To add tang and balance flavors.
I know honey itself is shelf stable, but is this a shelf stable item after adding the chili flakes and vinegar to it? Yes, it remains shelf-stable.
Is infused honey safe to store at room temperature? Yes, due to honey's low moisture.
Is there a substitute for chili flakes? Yes, powder or fresh peppers.
Let's talk about how to make hot honey at home, shall we? Absolutely—it's simple and rewarding.
Looking for some fun ideas for how to use hot honey? Try it in drinks, on meats, or desserts.
Q: Can I use fresh chili peppers instead of chili flakes? Yes, for fresher flavor.
Q: How long does hot honey last? 3-6 months.
Really, you should be asking, What Can’t I Do With Hot Honey? It's that versatile.
Room temperature or refrigerator? Room temperature.
Shop All Hot Sauces What is Hot Sauce Made Of? Vinegar, peppers, salt—similar elements in hot honey.
So what is Hot Honey and how can you make it yourself? Infused spicy honey, easy DIY.
Want sharp heat and vinegar? Add more apple cider vinegar.
Want to know how to make Hot Honey? Follow the recipe above.
Want to make vegan hot honey? Use agave nectar instead of honey.
What Is Hot Honey? Spicy infused honey.
What Makes Hot Sauce Hot? Capsaicin from peppers.
What To Serve with Hot Honey? Fried foods, cheeses, veggies.
What can I use the reserved peppers for? Sprinkle on dishes or reuse in oils.
What foods do you put hot honey sauce on? Pizza, chicken, salads.
What if my hot honey crystalizes? Warm gently to liquify.
What ingredients are in hot honey sauce? Honey, chilies, vinegar.
What is Hot Honey? Sweet-spicy condiment.
What is hot honey used for? Enhancing flavors in food and drinks.
What is hot honey? Honey infused with heat.
What is the shelf life on this if the peppers are strained out? Same as unstrained—months.
What types of honey can I use for hot honey? Any, but pure is best.
Why strain out the chili flakes when they look so pretty in the honey, right? For smoothness, but optional.
better with a drizzle of hot honey? Most savory dishes.
can I use fresh peppers instead of crushed red pepper flakes? Yes.
do I need to refrigerate hot honey? No.
how long does hot honey last? Months.
how should i store the hot honey? Airtight at room temp.
what hot sauce did you use? Any favorite works.
what kind of hot sauce should I use? Vinegar-based.
why did you add apple cider vinegar to this hot honey? For balance.
If you're ready to try this recipe, head to https://khaashoney.com/ for premium honey options. For personalized tips, feel free to reach out— we're here to help with your sweet and spicy adventures.