Hot Honey

Adam GALLAGHER
2026-02-24T11:40:55-05:00

The Sweet-and-Spicy Condiment Taking Over Kitchens

Hot honey has become one of the most popular condiments in recent years—and for good reason. This simple infusion of honey with chili heat creates a versatile drizzle that elevates everything from pizza and fried chicken to roasted vegetables and cheese boards.

Cuisine: American / Global Fusion

The beauty of hot honey lies in its balance: natural sweetness from raw honey meets the warming kick of chili peppers, creating a complex flavor that's both comforting and exciting. Unlike store-bought versions loaded with additives, this homemade hot honey uses just three ingredients and takes minutes to make.

Ingredients

1 cup raw honey (preferably local or wildflower)

2-3 tablespoons red pepper flakes (adjust for heat preference)

1/4 teaspoon sea salt (optional, enhances flavor)

Optional Add-ins for Variation:

1 fresh chili pepper (jalapeño, Fresno, or habanero), sliced

2-3 garlic cloves, smashed

Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs

1 cinnamon stick

Black peppercorns

Instructions

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

In a small saucepan, combine honey and red pepper flakes. If using fresh chilies or other aromatics, add them now.

Step 2: Gentle Heat Infusion

Place the saucepan over low heat and warm gently for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Do not let the honey boil—you want it just warm enough to infuse the flavors. The honey should become fragrant and slightly thinner in consistency.

Step 3: Rest and Steep

Remove from heat and let the mixture cool completely in the pan. For a more intense flavor, let it steep for 30 minutes to 2 hours at room temperature.

Step 4: Strain (Optional)

For a smooth hot honey, strain through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the pepper flakes and any solid ingredients. For a more rustic version with visible flakes, skip this step and transfer directly to a jar.

Step 5: Store

Transfer to a clean glass jar or squeeze bottle.

Storage Guidelines:

Dried ingredients only (pepper flakes, dried herbs, peppercorns, cinnamon): Store at room temperature for up to 3 months.

Fresh ingredients (fresh garlic, fresh chilies, or fresh herbs): Refrigerate immediately and use within 2–4 weeks. Strain out solids after steeping for extra safety.

Chef's Notes

Heat Level: Start with 2 tablespoons of pepper flakes for mild heat, 3 tablespoons for medium, or add fresh hot peppers for serious spice.

Honey Quality Matters: Use raw, unfiltered honey for the best flavor and nutritional benefits. Avoid ultra-processed honey.

Infusion Time: The longer you let it steep, the spicier it becomes. Taste as you go.

Shelf Stability: For longest shelf life, stick with dried add-ins only. Fresh ingredients add amazing flavor but require refrigeration.

Serving Suggestions: Drizzle over pizza, fried chicken, roasted Brussels sprouts, goat cheese, cornbread, biscuits, or vanilla ice cream.

Gift-Worthy: Pour into small jars with custom labels for a thoughtful homemade gift.

Popular Uses

Pizza topping (especially with pepperoni or sausage)

Fried chicken glaze

Cheese board drizzle (pairs beautifully with aged cheddar or blue cheese)

Roasted vegetable finish

Salad dressing base (mix with olive oil and vinegar)

Marinade for grilled meats

Biscuit or cornbread topping

Dessert accent (try on vanilla ice cream or panna cotta)