Name: Easy Hot Honey Recipe
Prep time: 2 min
Cook time: 3 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup honey (raw or organic preferred); 1–2 tbsp red pepper flakes (adjust for spice level)

This Easy Hot Honey recipe is a simple and delicious way to elevate your favorite dishes with just two pantry staples: honey and red pepper flakes. It delivers the perfect balance of sweetness and heat, making it a versatile condiment you’ll want to drizzle on everything.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this hot honey recipe comes together in minutes and adds a unique flavor twist to everyday meals. It’s customizable, easy to make, and can be stored for weeks. Whether it’s drizzled on fried chicken, pizza, or even desserts, it’s a game-changer for those who enjoy a bit of heat with their sweetness. Plus, it’s free from artificial ingredients and preservatives!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1/2 cup honey (preferably raw or organic for the best flavor)

1-2 tbsp red pepper flakes (adjust to your preferred spice level)

Directions

Combine the ingredients
In a small saucepan, I combine the honey and red pepper flakes.

Heat the mixture
Over low heat, I warm the honey for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to evenly mix in the red pepper flakes. I ensure the honey doesn’t boil, as that would change its texture and flavor.

Cool and store
After heating, I remove the pan from the stove and let the mixture cool slightly. Then, I pour it into a jar or bottle, letting it sit to allow the flavors to meld.

Serve
Once ready, I drizzle it over pizza, fried chicken, biscuits, or even vanilla ice cream for a sweet and spicy kick!

Servings and Timing

Servings: Makes about 1/2 cup of hot honey.

Prep Time: 2 minutes

Cook Time: 3 minutes

Total Time: 5 minutes

Variations

Milder Heat: Use fewer red pepper flakes or swap them with a mild chili powder.

Citrus Twist: Add a small amount of orange or lemon zest for a bright, citrusy note.

Smoky Flavor: Mix in a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky dimension.

Herbal Infusion: Add a sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary while heating for a herbaceous undertone.

Extra Sweetness: Blend the honey with a bit of maple syrup for added complexity.

Storage/Reheating

I store the hot honey in a clean, airtight jar or bottle at room temperature for up to one month. For longer storage, I refrigerate it for up to three months. Before using refrigerated hot honey, I let it sit at room temperature or warm it slightly in a bowl of warm water to loosen the consistency.

Related Recipes:

Hot Milk Cake

FAQs

How spicy is this hot honey?

The spice level depends on how much red pepper flakes you use. Start with 1 tablespoon and add more if you prefer extra heat.

Can I use a different type of chili?

Absolutely! I sometimes experiment with other dried chilies like chipotle or ancho to create unique flavor profiles.

Is it okay to use regular honey instead of raw or organic?

Yes, regular honey works just fine, but I find that raw or organic honey offers a richer, more natural flavor.

What dishes pair best with hot honey?

I drizzle hot honey on pizza, fried chicken, roasted vegetables, cornbread, or even desserts like ice cream and pancakes. It’s also great on cheese boards.

Can I make this in larger batches?

Yes, you can easily scale this recipe to make larger quantities. Just adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your desired spice level.

Conclusion

This Easy Hot Honey recipe is a fantastic way to add a sweet and spicy kick to countless dishes. Whether you’re using it as a drizzle, a dip, or even a marinade, it’s a versatile and delicious condiment that’s sure to impress. Best of all, it takes just minutes to make with ingredients you likely already have on hand.

📖 Recipe: