How to Make Hot Honey at Home

If you’ve never tried hot honey, you’re in for a treat! This sweet and spicy condiment is the perfect way to elevate just about any dish—from pizza and fried chicken to roasted veggies and even a bowl of vanilla ice cream (trust me!). With just three simple ingredients, you can whip up a homemade version in minutes, and it keeps beautifully on your kitchen shelf or in the fridge.

This easy DIY recipe combines honey, red pepper flakes (or fresh chiles), and apple cider vinegar for a balanced flavor that’s sweet, fiery, and just a little tangy. Once you’ve made it, you’ll find yourself drizzling it over everything.

Hot Honey Recipe

For this recipe, you will need honey, red pepper flakes, and apple cider vinegar.

In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of honey and your choice of 2 tsp red pepper flakes or two sliced chiles.

Heat over medium heat until the honey just begins to simmer gently (small bubbles, not boiling). Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to release the spice into the honey.

Turn off the heat and stir in 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar.

Let the hot honey cool to room temperature. Strain out the pepper flakes or chiles with a fine mesh sieve if you want a smooth honey, or leave them in for extra heat and visual appeal.

Pour the cooled hot honey into a clean glass jar or bottle, and seal it tightly. Store at room temperature or in the fridge.

How to Use Hot Honey

Hot honey is versatile, and you’ll quickly find that it becomes a go-to condiment in your kitchen. Here are some of our favorite ways to use it:

• On Pizza: A drizzle over pepperoni or cheese pizza adds the perfect spicy-sweet contrast.
• With Fried Foods: Think crispy fried chicken, cornbread, or roasted Brussels sprouts.
• Over Cheese Boards: Pair with sharp cheddar, creamy brie, or tangy goat cheese.
• On Breakfast Items: Drizzle over buttered biscuits, pancakes, or avocado toast.
• In Beverages: Stir a spoonful into warm tea or a hot toddy for a warming, sweet heat.

Substitutions and Tips

This recipe is totally customizable based on what you have and your heat tolerance:

• Honey: Use any raw or regular honey you have on hand. Clover, wildflower, or orange blossom honey all work beautifully.
• Chiles: Swap red pepper flakes for fresh chiles like jalapeños, serranos, or even dried chipotle for a smoky flavor. Just slice and simmer them in the honey.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds a tangy brightness to balance the heat. You can also use white wine vinegar or lemon juice in a pinch.
• Spice Level: Start with less pepper if you’re sensitive to heat, or increase for a fiery version.

FAQ

How long does hot honey last?

Stored in a clean, airtight jar, hot honey will last for up to 3 months at room temperature, or even longer in the fridge. Just warm slightly if it crystallizes.

Can I use fresh peppers instead of flakes?

Yes! You can use fresh or dried peppers—just slice and simmer them in the honey. Be sure to strain them out if you want a smooth finish.

Is hot honey very spicy?

It depends on the amount and type of peppers you use. Red pepper flakes offer a moderate heat, while fresh chiles can bring more intensity.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

If you’re vegan, substitute maple syrup or agave for honey, keeping in mind the flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

Related:

• Herbal Honey for Sleep
• Onion Honey Cough Syrup
• Apple Cider Vinegar & Honey Recipe (Immune-Boosting!)

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