Homemade Hot Honey: The Ultimate Sweet & Spicy Condiment Recipe

Welcome to your new favorite kitchen staple: a homemade hot honey that’s incredibly easy to make and bursting with a perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors. Forget the overpriced store-bought versions; with just a few minutes and some common pantry ingredients, you can create a versatile, drizzle-worthy condiment that elevates almost any dish. From crispy fried chicken and artisan pizza to delicate cheese boards, fluffy biscuits, and even craft cocktails, this hot honey is a game-changer. Get ready to discover how simple it is to add a fiery kick to your culinary creations and impress everyone with your homemade magic!

About This Hot Honey Recipe

My journey into the world of hot honey began, quite unexpectedly, with a happy accident. One evening, rushing through the grocery store to grab dinner essentials, I mistakenly picked up a bottle of what I thought was regular honey. It wasn’t until I was back home, ready to sweeten my tea, that I realized my error. But instead of returning it (let’s be honest, who has the time?), I decided to give it a taste. And oh, what a revelation it was!

That first drizzle of hot honey was a moment of pure culinary discovery. The harmonious blend of sticky sweetness and vibrant heat instantly captivated my palate. It became clear that this wasn’t just another condiment; it was an extraordinary flavor enhancer, destined to become a new favorite in my kitchen. The only catch? The premium price tag of store-bought hot honey. That’s when I committed to creating my own budget-friendly, customizable version at home.

This recipe is the culmination of that quest: an incredibly straightforward method to make a high-quality hot honey using only a handful of readily available pantry staples. In just about 5 minutes of active preparation, you can create a batch that rivals any gourmet brand. The beauty of making it yourself is the freedom to adjust the spice level to your exact preference, ensuring every drizzle is just right.

Once you master this simple recipe, you’ll find yourself reaching for it constantly. Imagine the sweet-and-spicy glaze transforming a simple piece of fried chicken, or the tangy kick it adds to a slice of pepperoni pizza. It’s fantastic drizzled over a sophisticated charcuterie board, bringing a delightful contrast to creamy cheeses like brie. For those who enjoy a spirited twist, it’s a unique sweetener for cocktails like a warming hot toddy or even refreshing iced tea. Elevate your morning routine with hot honey avocado toast or add a surprising zing to roasted vegetables. Truly, the possibilities are endless. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s an invitation to experiment and inject exciting flavors into your everyday meals. You don’t need any special skills or equipment beyond basic kitchen tools. Just gather your honey, your preferred hot sauce, some chili flakes, and a splash of apple cider vinegar (which, while optional, we highly recommend for its balancing tang).

Ingredients You’ll Need

This simple hot honey recipe relies on just a few key ingredients to create its signature sweet and spicy profile. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance:

Honey: As the star of the show, a good quality honey is essential. It provides the luscious sweetness and viscous texture that forms the base of this condiment. We typically opt for a mild, classic clover honey, which allows the spicy notes to shine through without competition. However, don’t hesitate to experiment with other varieties like wildflower, orange blossom, or even buckwheat honey for a deeper, more nuanced flavor. The type of honey you choose will subtly influence the final taste, so feel free to personalize it.

Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: These fiery little flakes are the primary source of heat. They slowly infuse the honey with their vibrant spice as they simmer. The longer you let them sit, the more intense the heat will become. You can easily adjust the quantity to suit your preferred spice level, starting with less and adding more if you dare. For an even bolder, fresher heat, consider using fresh chili peppers instead. Options like serranos, Thai red chilies, or even habaneros (for serious heat lovers) can be finely chopped and added. See our FAQ section for more details on using fresh peppers.

Hot Sauce: A dash of your favorite hot sauce adds another layer of complexity and a distinct vinegary tang that complements the sweetness of the honey. Frank’s Red Hot Sauce is our go-to for its classic cayenne pepper flavor and reliable medium heat level, which blends beautifully without overpowering. However, feel free to use Cholula for a more subtle heat, sriracha for a garlic-infused spice, or even a smoky chipotle hot sauce for a deeper, earthy undertone. Choose a sauce that you genuinely enjoy the flavor of, as it will significantly contribute to the overall profile of your hot honey.

Apple Cider Vinegar (Optional): While not strictly necessary, a small amount of apple cider vinegar (ACV) truly elevates this recipe. It introduces a subtle, bright tanginess that cuts through the sweetness and spice, creating a more balanced and complex flavor profile. This acidity also helps to brighten the overall taste and prevent it from being overly cloying. If you prefer a pure sweet-spicy profile, you can omit it, but we highly recommend including it for that extra layer of deliciousness.

Essential Equipment

You don’t need a professional kitchen setup to make this fantastic hot honey. Just a few basic tools will get the job done efficiently:

• Small Saucepan: A small saucepan is perfect for gently simmering the honey and infusing it with the spices. Its size allows for even heating and easy monitoring, preventing the honey from boiling over or scorching.
• Fine Mesh Strainer: If you prefer a smooth, particle-free hot honey, a fine mesh strainer is essential for removing the crushed red pepper flakes after infusion. This ensures a clean texture while still retaining all the spicy flavor.
• Airtight Glass Container or Mason Jar: For storing your homemade hot honey, a small mason jar or any other airtight glass container is ideal. Glass won’t absorb flavors and provides a secure seal to keep your hot honey fresh for months.
• Heat-Resistant Spatula or Spoon: Useful for stirring the honey mixture during simmering and for scraping every last drop into your storage jar.

How to Make Hot Honey

Making your own hot honey is incredibly straightforward, requiring just two main steps: simmering and straining. Here’s a detailed breakdown to ensure you achieve perfect results every time:

Simmer and Infuse Flavors

Begin by combining all your ingredients – the honey, crushed red pepper flakes, and hot sauce – in a small saucepan. Place the saucepan over medium-low heat. The goal here is to gently warm the mixture, not to bring it to a rolling boil. Boiling honey can cause it to scorch, alter its flavor, and reduce its delicate consistency.

Stir the mixture frequently to ensure everything is well combined and the heat is distributed evenly. As the honey warms, the crushed red pepper flakes and hot sauce will begin to infuse their spicy oils and flavors into the sweet base. You’ll notice the honey becoming more fluid and taking on a subtle reddish hue.

Continue to simmer gently for about 1 to 2 minutes. This brief period is sufficient to allow the flavors to meld beautifully without overcooking the honey. Keep a close eye on it to prevent it from reaching a boil. Once it has simmered for the desired time, remove the saucepan from the heat.

If you’re using apple cider vinegar, now is the time to stir it in. Adding it off the heat preserves its bright, tangy notes. Let the hot honey mixture cool completely in the saucepan. As it cools, the flavors will continue to intensify, and the honey will thicken slightly. You can taste it periodically as it cools to determine your desired spice level. The longer the pepper flakes steep, the spicier the honey will become.

Strain and Store

Once the hot honey has cooled to room temperature, you have a choice: to strain or not to strain. For a visually appealing, smooth condiment that won’t continue to get spicier over time, we recommend straining out the crushed red pepper flakes. Simply pour the cooled hot honey through a fine mesh strainer into a clean, airtight glass jar or container. This will leave you with a beautifully clear, golden hot honey.

However, if you enjoy a more rustic look and prefer your hot honey to progressively increase in heat, you can skip the straining step entirely. Leaving the pepper flakes in the honey allows them to continuously infuse, resulting in a spicier product the longer it sits. This option is great for those who truly love a bold, lingering heat.

This recipe typically yields approximately 1 cup of delicious homemade hot honey, perfect for keeping on hand or gifting.

Pro Tips for Perfect Hot Honey

To ensure your homemade hot honey is nothing short of spectacular, keep these expert tips in mind:

• Experiment with Flavored Honey: The foundation of your hot honey directly impacts its final flavor. While clover honey is a great neutral choice, don’t shy away from using other varieties like wildflower for a more floral note, orange blossom for a hint of citrus, or even buckwheat honey for a robust, molasses-like undertone. Each brings a unique character to the sweet-and-spicy blend.
• Control the Heat to Your Liking: The beauty of homemade is customization. If you’re unsure about the spice level, start with the lower end of the crushed red pepper flakes recommendation (2 Tbsp) and a milder hot sauce. Remember, the longer the chili flakes steep in the honey, the spicier it will become. You can always add more flakes or a hotter sauce later, but you can’t easily remove heat. Taste as you go!
• Gentle Simmer is Key – Don’t Boil It: This is crucial. Honey can scorch easily at high temperatures, leading to a bitter taste and a compromised texture. Maintain a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. If it starts to foam vigorously or show signs of rapid bubbling, reduce the heat immediately. A light simmer is all you need to infuse the flavors effectively.
• Make it Giftable: Homemade hot honey makes for a thoughtful and delicious gift. Pour your finished product into small, decorative glass jars (like mini mason jars), add a handwritten label, and tie with a piece of twine or ribbon. It’s perfect for holidays, housewarmings, or as a host/hostess gift.
• Don’t Be Afraid to Double the Recipe: If you find yourself quickly going through batches (and you likely will!), feel free to double, triple, or even quadruple the recipe. Just ensure you use a larger saucepan to accommodate the increased volume and maintain the same gentle simmering process.
• Sanitize Your Jars: For optimal shelf life and food safety, especially if you plan on storing the hot honey for several months or gifting it, ensure your storage jars are thoroughly cleaned and sterilized. You can do this by washing them in hot, soapy water, rinsing well, and then drying them in an oven set to a low temperature (around 225°F/100°C) for 10-15 minutes, or running them through a dishwasher’s sanitize cycle.
• Cool Completely Before Straining: Allow the honey to cool down entirely before straining. This not only makes it easier to handle but also gives the spices more time to fully infuse their flavor into the honey.

More delish sauces to try out: Bourbon Peach BBQ Sauce | Baileys Hot Fudge Sauce | The Best Au Jus

Hot Honey FAQ

Got questions about making your perfect batch of hot honey? We’ve got answers!

What Kind of Hot Sauce Should I Use?

The best hot sauce is truly a matter of personal preference! I typically gravitate towards Frank’s RedHot because it offers a classic, tangy cayenne flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of honey without being overly aggressive. Its balanced heat level also makes it a versatile choice for many palates. However, the world of hot sauce is vast and exciting!

Feel free to experiment with your favorites. Cholula offers a more earthy, less vinegary heat. Sriracha can introduce a garlicky, slightly sweeter spice. If you’re aiming for a deeper, smokier profile, consider a chipotle-based hot sauce. For those who love a serious kick, a habanero or ghost pepper sauce will certainly deliver. Just be mindful of the heat level when selecting – a little goes a long way with intensely spicy sauces. The key is to choose a hot sauce whose flavor profile you enjoy, as it will significantly contribute to the overall character of your homemade hot honey.

Can I Use Fresh Peppers Instead of Crushed Red Pepper Flakes?

Absolutely, and it’s a fantastic way to introduce a brighter, more complex heat profile to your hot honey! Fresh peppers, such as habanero, serrano, or various Thai chilis, will infuse the honey with a vibrant, nuanced spice that differs from the more straightforward heat of dried flakes. They often carry more aromatic notes and a fresher flavor.

When using fresh peppers, we generally recommend starting with 1 to 2 small to medium-sized peppers, depending on their inherent heat level and how spicy you desire your honey to be. For instance, one habanero can pack a serious punch, while two jalapeños might offer a milder, more approachable heat. Finely chop the peppers, and for maximum spice, be sure to include the seeds and membranes – that’s where the majority of the capsaicin (the compound responsible for heat) resides! Add these chopped peppers to the honey at the simmering stage, just as you would the red pepper flakes.

You can then decide whether to include hot sauce alongside the fresh peppers; it’s entirely up to the flavor profile you’re aiming for. Omitting the hot sauce will allow the pure flavor of the fresh peppers and honey to shine, while adding it will build an additional layer of complexity. Remember to strain the peppers out if you prefer a smooth consistency and to prevent the honey from becoming excessively spicy over time.

How Spicy is This Recipe?

This particular hot honey recipe is designed to offer a delightful balance of sweet and heat, landing squarely in the medium spice category. You’ll experience an initial rush of honeyed sweetness, followed by a noticeable warmth that gently lingers on your tongue, inviting you for another taste. On a typical scale from 1 (mild) to 10 (extremely hot), we’d comfortably rate this recipe as a 6 or 7. It’s spicy enough to be exciting and flavorful without being overwhelming for most palates.

However, the beauty of homemade is that you are the master of your spice destiny! If you’re a true heat seeker yearning for more fire, it’s incredibly easy to adjust. Simply increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes, opt for a hotter variety of fresh chili peppers, or choose a spicier hot sauce (like a habanero-based one). For a milder experience, reduce the amount of chili flakes. Always taste as you go during the cooling process to fine-tune the heat to your exact preference.

Do I Need to Refrigerate Hot Honey?

No, you do not need to refrigerate hot honey! Honey is a naturally shelf-stable product due to its low water content and high sugar concentration, which inhibits the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms. When combined with other stable ingredients like hot sauce and dried chili flakes, it remains safe to store at room temperature.

Simply transfer your homemade hot honey into a clean, airtight glass jar. Store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or extreme temperature fluctuations. A pantry, cupboard, or even your kitchen counter (if not too warm) is perfectly suitable. Refrigerating honey can cause it to crystallize more quickly and become very thick, making it harder to pour and drizzle. If crystallization does occur, simply place the jar in a bowl of warm water for a few minutes until it liquefies again.

How Long Does Homemade Hot Honey Last?

When prepared and stored properly in a clean, airtight glass jar at room temperature, your homemade hot honey can last for several months! Because honey is naturally antimicrobial, it acts as an excellent preservative for the added ingredients. The heat from the simmering process also helps to sterilize the mixture and extract the flavors efficiently.

To maximize its shelf life, always use clean utensils when dipping into the jar and ensure the lid is tightly sealed after each use to prevent any moisture or contaminants from entering. While it can last for months, the flavor is often best within the first 1-2 months, as the spices are at their most potent and fresh. Over a longer period, the spice intensity might mellow slightly, but the honey itself will remain perfectly safe to consume.

Need some inspiration for dinner this week? Check out my main dish recipes page!

Creative Ways to Use This Homemade Hot Honey Recipe

Once you make a batch of this sweet and spicy hot honey, you’ll quickly realize its incredible versatility. It’s not just a condiment; it’s a flavor enhancer that can transform an ordinary meal into something extraordinary. Here are just a few ideas to get you started on your hot honey journey:

• Breakfast & Brunch Bliss: Drizzle it generously over your favorite buttery biscuits, fluffy pancakes, waffles, or cornbread for a delightful sweet and spicy start to your day. It’s also incredible on Greek yogurt with granola or fresh fruit.
• Pizza Perfection: Elevate your pizza night! A swirl of hot honey over a pepperoni pizza or a plain cheese pizza adds an irresistible sweet-heat kick. It’s also fantastic for dipping your pizza crust into – a personal favorite!
• Burger & Sandwich Boost: Spread a thin layer on your burgers, chicken sandwiches, or even a classic grilled cheese for a surprising twist that balances richness with a touch of spice.
• Meat Glaze Magic: Brush it on proteins like grilled or roasted chicken (especially crispy chicken wings or thighs), pork chops, steak, or salmon during the last few minutes of cooking for a glossy, flavorful glaze that caramelizes beautifully.
• Cocktail Concoctions: Replace simple syrup with hot honey in your favorite cocktails for a unique sweet-heat dimension. It’s particularly good in a hot toddy, whiskey sour, or even a spicy margarita. It also adds a fun twist to iced tea or lemonade.
• Wing Wonderland: Toss freshly fried or baked chicken wings with this hot honey for a sticky, sweet, and spicy coating that’s infinitely better than anything from a bottle.
• Salad Dressing & Sauce Sparkle: Whisk it into homemade vinaigrettes for a salad dressing with a kick, or incorporate it into sauces for roasted fruits or savory dishes to add depth.
• Hot Honey Butter: Mix softened butter with hot honey for an irresistible spread that’s perfect for toast, muffins, or corn on the cob.
• Cheese Board Charmer: A staple on any sophisticated charcuterie board! Drizzle it over a creamy wheel of brie, goat cheese, or a sharp cheddar. The sweet and spicy notes beautifully complement the richness of the cheese.
• Roasted Vegetable Revitalizer: Toss your roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, sweet potatoes, or broccoli with hot honey just before serving for a surprising and delicious spicy twist that encourages even the pickiest eaters to dig in.
• Unexpected Dessert Delights: Don’t limit it to savory! Drizzle hot honey over vanilla ice cream for a unique take on a sundae, or over baked apples and pears.
• Morning Meat Zing: Add a little zing to your breakfast meats by drizzling hot honey over crispy bacon or savory sausage patties.

The culinary adventures you can embark on with this hot honey recipe are truly boundless. It’s guaranteed to become a versatile staple in your kitchen!

How to Store Hot Honey

Proper storage is key to ensuring your homemade hot honey remains fresh, safe, and delicious for as long as possible. Fortunately, it’s incredibly simple:

Storage Method: Transfer your cooled hot honey into a clean, sterilized glass container with a tightly sealed lid. Mason jars are an excellent choice due to their reliable seal and non-reactive nature. Ensure the container is completely dry before adding the honey.

Temperature: Store the hot honey at room temperature. A cool, dry place like a pantry, cupboard, or even a countertop (away from direct sunlight and heat sources like ovens) is ideal. Honey’s natural properties mean it does not require refrigeration. In fact, refrigerating honey can accelerate crystallization, making it thicker and harder to pour.

Shelf Life: When stored correctly, your homemade hot honey sauce will last for several months. While it has a long shelf life, it’s always best enjoyed within the first 2-3 months for optimal flavor and spice potency. If you notice any unusual smells or mold (which is highly unlikely with honey), it’s best to discard it.

Crystallization: If your hot honey crystallizes over time, don’t worry – it’s a natural process and doesn’t mean it’s gone bad. Simply place the sealed jar in a bowl of warm water for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the crystals dissolve and the honey returns to its smooth, liquid state. Avoid using boiling water, as extreme heat can alter the honey’s delicate flavors.

More Spicy Recipes to Ignite Your Taste Buds

If you’re a fan of a little heat, these other spicy recipes are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen:

For a hearty and flavorful dinner, whip up these Spicy Italian Stuffed Peppers! They are loaded with extra cheese and robust flavors, making for a satisfying meal that brings a comforting warmth.

Love a cheesy, comforting dip with a kick? This Spicy Lasagna Dip combines the rich flavors of lasagna with a delightful level of spice, perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying during a cozy night in.

And for those who appreciate spicy cocktails, our Spicy Mango Margarita is a perennial favorite! It offers a vibrant blend of sweet, tangy mango with a fiery finish that’s incredibly refreshing and exciting.

Finally, if you make this easy hot honey recipe, please be sure to give this recipe a star rating on the recipe card and/or leave a comment! I love to hear when you all make recipes, and I do take the time to respond to every single comment.

Feel free to drop questions below too, if you have them!

Oh and be sure to tag me on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest if you make the recipe! I love being able to see these recipes come to life in your homes – it’s my favorite thing to look through those photos. It really means the world to me!

Easy Homemade Hot Honey

This sweet and spicy homemade hot honey is a versatile condiment that will transform your favorite dishes. Easy to make in just 5 minutes with pantry staples!

Cook Time: 5 minutes mins

Total Time: 5 minutes mins

Servings: 1 cup

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equipment

• Small Saucepan
• Fine Mesh Strainer
• Airtight Glass Jar (e.g., Mason Jar)

ingredients

• 2 to 3 Tbsp crushed red pepper flakes adjust to your preferred spice level
• 3 tsp hot sauce e.g., Frank’s RedHot, Cholula
• 1 cup honey good quality clover or wildflower honey
• 2 tsp apple cider vinegar optional, for added tang

instructions

• Combine honey, crushed red pepper flakes, and hot sauce in a small pot over medium-low heat. Stir everything together well.
• Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, ensuring it does not come to a rolling boil.
• Remove the pot from the heat. If using, stir in the apple cider vinegar now.
• Allow the hot honey to cool completely to room temperature. This allows the flavors to deepen. Once cool, strain out the red pepper flakes using a fine mesh strainer (optional, but recommended for a clean look and controlled spice).
• Pour the finished hot honey into a clean, airtight glass jar or container. Store it in a cool, dry place.

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nutrition

Calories: 1079kcal | Carbohydrates: 288g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 0.4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 594mg | Potassium: 513mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 280g | Vitamin A: 4763IU | Vitamin C: 11mg | Calcium: 75mg | Iron: 4mg

Calories: 1079kcal

Cuisine: American

Category: Sauce, Condiment