What Is Hot Honey?
Hot honey is honey mixed with chili peppers or chili flakes. This makes it both sweet and spicy. It likely started in the southern United States, but now people use it all over the world in homes and restaurants.
What’s great about hot honey is that you can adjust the spiciness, try different peppers, and even add other flavors like vinegar or herbs to make it your own.
Why Make Hot Honey at Home?
Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level to your liking by changing the type or amount of chili.
Freshness: Homemade hot honey has a brighter, more pronounced flavor than most store-bought versions.
Cost-Effective: Making it yourself is much cheaper than buying specialty bottles.
Creative Control: Add herbs, vinegar, or even a splash of hot sauce for unique flavor
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Essential Ingredients
The basic recipe for hot honey requires only three ingredients:
Honey: Use any liquid honey you like. Lighter honeys (like clover or wildflower) let the chili flavor shine, while darker honeys (like buckwheat) add deeper notes.
Chili: Crushed red pepper flakes are the most common, but you can use fresh chili peppers (like jalapeño, serrano, or habanero), dried whole chilies, or even a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
Vinegar (optional): Apple cider vinegar adds a tangy finish and balances the sweetness and heat. Some recipes use hot sauce for a similar effect.
Sample Proportions:
- 1 cup honey
- 2–3 tablespoons crushed red pepper flakes or 1–2 fresh chilies, sliced
- 1–2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar (optional)
Step-by-Step: How to Make Hot Honey
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
- Measure out 1 cup of honey.
- Choose your heat: 2–3 tablespoons of dried chili flakes, or 1–2 fresh chili peppers, thinly sliced. (Remove seeds for less heat.)
- Ready 1–2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar if you want a tangy note.
2. Simmer the Honey and Chili
- Add the honey and chili (flakes or fresh) to a small saucepan.
- Heat over medium-low heat until the honey just begins to simmer. This usually takes 2–5 minutes—look for tiny bubbles forming at the edges, but do not let the honey boil, as this can alter its flavor and texture.
- Stir occasionally to distribute the chili evenly.
3. Infuse and Adjust
Once the honey is simmering, remove the pan from the heat.
Let the mixture steep for 10–15 minutes. This allows the chili to infuse its heat and flavor into the honey.
Taste the honey after 10 minutes. If you want more heat, let it infuse longer or add a bit more chili.
4. Strain and Finish
Strain the honey through a fine mesh sieve into a clean glass jar to remove the chili flakes or pepper slices. (If you like extra heat and texture, you can leave some chili in the jar.)
Stir in the apple cider vinegar or hot sauce, if using, and mix well.
5. Store
Let the honey cool to room temperature.
Seal the jar with a tight-fitting lid and store at room temperature. Homemade hot honey will keep for several months in a cool, dry place.
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Tips for Customizing Hot Honey
Adjusting Heat:
- For milder hot honey, use fewer chili flakes or milder peppers like jalapeño.
- For extra heat, use hotter peppers (like habanero or Thai chili) or add a pinch of cayenne.
- The longer you infuse, the spicier the honey will become.
Flavor Variations:
- Add a sprig of thyme, rosemary, or a strip of orange zest during the simmer for herbal or citrus notes.
- For a smoky flavor, use chipotle or smoked paprika.
- A splash of hot sauce adds depth and color.
Vegan Version:
Substitute agave syrup for honey to make a vegan hot “honey”.
Health Benefits of Hot Honey
Besides being a flavorful addition to your meals, hot honey also offers some health benefits:
- Honey: Rich in antioxidants, honey is known for its soothing and antibacterial properties.
- Chili Peppers: Capsaicin, the compound that makes chili peppers hot, is believed to boost metabolism and promote circulation.
- Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties.
So not only does hot honey taste great, but it also offers a bit of a health boost!
Creative Ways to Use Hot Honey
Hot honey is incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious ways to use it:
- Drizzle on pizza: The sweet heat pairs perfectly with salty cheese and cured meats.
- Fried chicken and chicken tenders: A classic Southern pairing.
- Biscuits and cornbread: Adds a spicy kick to comfort food.
- Cheese boards: Try it with creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese.
- Roasted vegetables: Especially good on carrots, squash, or Brussels sprouts.
- Ice cream: A surprising but delightful sweet-and-spicy topping.
- Salad dressings: Whisk into vinaigrettes for a spicy-sweet twist.
- Cocktails: Stir into bourbon or tequila drinks for a unique flavor boost.
- Avocado toast: Drizzle over smashed avocado for a gourmet touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does homemade hot honey last?
Stored in a sealed jar at room temperature, hot honey lasts several months. If you use fresh chilies, refrigerate and use within a few weeks for safety.
Can I use different types of honey?
Absolutely! Lighter honeys let the chili shine, while darker honeys add depth.
Can I leave the chili flakes in the honey?
Yes, for extra heat and a rustic look, but the honey will continue to get spicier over time.
Is hot honey gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your honey and added ingredients are gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
Making hot honey at home is simple, quick, and endlessly customizable. With just a few ingredients and about 20 minutes, you can create a sweet and spicy condiment that elevates countless dishes. Whether you like it mild or fiery, with a hint of tang or a smoky note, homemade hot honey is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
So grab your favorite honey and peppers, and start experimenting—you’ll never look at plain honey the same way again!
FAQs
Can I use any type of honey to make hot honey?
Yes, you can use any type of honey. Raw honey tends to give the best flavor, but you can experiment with different varieties like clover or wildflower honey.
How spicy will my hot honey be?
The level of spiciness depends on how many chili peppers or chili flakes you use. Start with a small amount and taste-test as you go to achieve your preferred heat level.
Can I make hot honey without fresh peppers?
Yes! You can use dried chili flakes instead. The flavor will be slightly different, but it still works great.
How long does hot honey last?
Hot honey can last for several months when stored properly in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.
Can I add other ingredients to my hot honey?
Absolutely! Experiment with flavors like garlic, cinnamon, smoked paprika, or citrus zest to make your hot honey unique.