Name: Spicy Hot Honey: Drizzle the Heat!
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces honey; 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon hot sauce; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Creating your own hot honey is remarkably simple and yields a condiment far superior to most store-bought versions. The secret to a truly balanced hot honey lies in the gentle simmering process, allowing the spices to fully infuse without over-reducing the honey. This hot honey recipe is designed for ease and versatility, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned food enthusiasts looking to add a bright new flavor profile to their pantry. It’s an excellent way to improve everyday meals, from breakfast to dinner.

⏱ Time: 10 min

👥 Servings: 10-12

📊 Level: Easy

🥗 6 ingredients

Spicy Hot Honey: Drizzle the Heat!

Hot honey: craft this versatile sweet and spicy sauce in minutes. Perfect for pizza, chicken, or glazes, it adds a unique kick to any dish.

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 5

Total Time 10

Servings: 12

Course: Sauce

Cuisine: American

Calories: 60

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

8 ounces honey
1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon hot sauce
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Method

In a medium-sized saucepan, combine 8 ounces honey, 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon hot sauce, and 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally and let it simmer for 3 to 5 minutes, until the honey has fully infused with the spices.
Remove the saucepan from heat and carefully pour the mixture into a heatproof jar.
Let the honey cool slightly, then taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more hot sauce for extra heat or vinegar for more tang, as desired.
Allow the honey to cool completely before using.

Notes

– For extra depth, gently toast the red pepper flakes in a dry pan for 30 seconds before adding them to the honey. This brings out more of their smoky flavor.
– If you prefer a smoother hot honey without the flakes, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve after simmering and before cooling. I found the texture of the flakes adds a nice visual.
– To store, keep the hot honey in an airtight jar at room temperature for up to 6 months. Refrigeration is not necessary and can cause crystallization.

Nutrition information is an estimate, calculated automatically. Values vary with brands, substitutions and portion sizes.

Pro tips

For extra depth, gently toast the red pepper flakes in a dry pan for 30 seconds before adding them to the honey. This brings out more of their smoky flavor.
If you prefer a smoother hot honey without the flakes, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve after simmering and before cooling. I found the texture of the flakes adds a nice visual.
To store, keep the hot honey in an airtight jar at room temperature for up to 6 months. Refrigeration is not necessary and can cause crystallization.

Experiment with different hot sauces or chile varieties to customize the heat and flavor profile of your hot honey. It’s a fantastic gift idea too! Enjoy this versatile condiment!