Easy Hot Honey Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- In a 2-cup glass measuring cup, stir together the honey, hot sauce, and red pepper flakes.
- Microwave on high for 1 minute, then stir well. Continue microwaving in 20-second bursts, stirring between each, until the mixture reduces to a generous 1/2 cup (about 8 total intervals). Watch closely to prevent boiling over.
- Pour the hot honey through a fine-mesh strainer into a clean jar, discarding the pepper flakes. Use immediately while warm, or let cool to room temperature before sealing.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!What Is Hot Honey?
I used to buy hot honey. I’d grab a bottle at the store, pay like eight bucks, and tell myself it was worth it. And it was good, don’t get me wrong. But then I realized something.
This stuff is ridiculously easy to make at home. Like, embarrassingly easy.
Hot honey is exactly what it sounds like. It’s honey that’s been infused with chili peppers or hot sauce, giving it this amazing sweet and spicy kick. You’ve probably seen it on menus everywhere. Drizzled over pizza, slathered on fried chicken, even on cheese boards. It’s become this cult favorite condiment, and for good reason.
But here’s the thing. Most people think you need special ingredients or complicated techniques. You don’t. My hot honey recipe uses just three ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. And it takes five minutes.
I’m not kidding. Five minutes.
So let me show you how to make the best homemade hot honey you’ve ever tasted. Trust me, once you do, you’ll never buy it again.
Why This Recipe Works
I’ve tested a lot of hot honey methods. Some use fresh chili peppers. Some use dried whole chiles. Some take hours of steeping. And they all work, sure. But this one? It’s the one I come back to every time.
Here’s why this hot honey recipe is different.
- It’s fast. Most recipes ask you to simmer honey for 20 minutes or steep peppers for hours. This one takes 5 minutes total. That’s it.
- It uses the microwave. No standing over a hot stove. No double boiler. Just a glass measuring cup and your microwave.
- It’s foolproof. The honey reduces just enough to get that perfect thick, pourable consistency. Not too runny, not too thick.
- It’s customizable. Want it hotter? Add more hot sauce. Want it milder? Use less pepper flakes. You’re in control.
- It’s shelf-stable. Because we’re using dried red pepper flakes (not fresh peppers), this homemade hot honey will last for months in your pantry.
I honestly can’t think of another condiment that gives you this much payoff for so little effort.
And the best part? You probably have everything you need right now.
Hot Honey Ingredients
Let’s talk about what goes into this hot honey recipe. Three ingredients. That’s it. I promise.
Honey
You need half a cup of honey. Any kind works. I usually grab clover honey from Trader Joe’s or Costco, but orange blossom honey gives it a floral note that’s pretty amazing. Raw honey works too, just know it might crystallize faster (more on that later).
Don’t use that old honey that’s been sitting in your cabinet for two years and turned into a solid block. Get fresh honey. Your taste buds will thank you.
Hot Sauce
Two tablespoons of hot sauce. I use Frank’s RedHot because it’s what I always have on hand. It adds that vinegary tang that balances the sweetness perfectly. Cholula works great too. Tabasco? Sure, but it’s a little thinner.
If you’re worried about heat, start with one tablespoon. You can always add more.
Red Pepper Flakes
Two tablespoons of red pepper flakes. These are your standard pizza parlor pepper flakes. They add that beautiful red color and a slow-building heat that doesn’t smack you in the face.
You can use crushed red chiles instead if that’s what you have. The texture will be a little different, but the flavor will be spot on.
That’s it. Three ingredients. Half a cup of honey, two tablespoons of hot sauce, two tablespoons of red pepper flakes. Simple, right?
How To Make Hot Honey
Okay, here’s where the magic happens. I’m going to walk you through this step by step. And I mean step by step, because I want you to get it right the first time.
Step 1: Mix Everything Together
Grab a 2-cup glass measuring cup. Not a plastic one, glass. The microwave heats things unevenly, and plastic can warp. Plus, glass lets you see what’s happening.
Stir together the honey, hot sauce, and red pepper flakes. Just a quick stir with a fork or small whisk. Don’t worry if the pepper flakes float to the top. That’s normal.
Step 2: Microwave in Bursts
This is the part that feels a little weird, but trust me. Microwave on high for one minute. Then stir. Then microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring between each one.
You’re looking for the mixture to reduce to about a generous half cup. This usually takes about 8 total intervals. Watch closely. Honey can boil over fast, and cleaning burnt honey from your microwave is not fun.
You’ll see the mixture get bubbly and slightly thicker. That’s the reduction happening. It’s also infusing all that spicy goodness into the honey.
Step 3: Strain the Peppers
Pour the hot honey through a fine-mesh strainer into a clean jar. Discard the pepper flakes. You’ll be left with this gorgeous, smooth, amber-colored spicy honey that’s perfectly infused.
Some people like to leave the flakes in. I get it, it looks rustic and cool. But I prefer straining because you get that consistent heat throughout. No surprises.
Use the honey immediately while it’s warm, or let it cool to room temperature before sealing the jar. Either way works.
Step 4: Enjoy Your Homemade Hot Honey
That’s it. You just made homemade hot honey in less time than it takes to order takeout.
The color is beautiful. A deep amber with a slight red tint from the hot sauce. The smell is incredible. Sweet honey with a warm, slightly spicy kick.
Go ahead, taste it. Dip a spoon in. You’ll get that initial sweetness, then a slow, pleasant heat that builds on your tongue. It’s not overwhelming. It’s balanced.
I told you it was easy.
Recipe Variations
This hot honey recipe is a starting point. Once you’ve made it once or twice, you’ll start thinking of ways to make it your own. Here are some of my favorites.
Different Pepper Options
Instead of red pepper flakes, try using dried chiles. Ancho chiles give a smoky, mild heat. Guajillo chiles add a fruity, medium heat. Chiles de árbol bring serious heat. Just crush them up before adding.
You can also use fresh peppers. Jalapeño, serrano, habanero, or Thai bird chiles all work. Just slice them and let them steep in the warm honey for 10-15 minutes. Then strain. If you use fresh peppers, store your hot honey in the fridge and use it within a week.
Flavor Twists
Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for extra tang. It cuts the sweetness and adds complexity. I love this version for drizzling on roasted vegetables.
For a smoky version, add a pinch of smoked paprika. It gives the honey this incredible depth that’s amazing on grilled chicken or steak.
Garlic lovers, try adding a sliced garlic clove while the honey heats. Let it steep for a few minutes, then remove it. Garlic hot honey is a game changer for pizza.
The beauty of this recipe is that it’s endlessly customizable. Don’t be afraid to experiment.
Ways To Use Hot Honey
Now that you have a jar of this incredible homemade hot honey, what do you do with it? The short answer is everything. But let me give you some specific ideas.
- Pizza. This is the classic. Drizzle it over a slice of pepperoni pizza. The sweet and spicy combo with the salty cheese is perfection.
- Fried chicken. Hot honey and fried chicken are a match made in heaven. Drizzle it over chicken tenders, wings, or a whole fried chicken sandwich.
- Cheese boards. Set out a small bowl of hot honey next to your cheese board. It’s amazing with sharp cheddar, blue cheese, or brie.
- Roasted vegetables. Drizzle it over roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes. The honey caramelizes and gets all sticky and delicious.
- Tacos. A drizzle of hot honey on tacos adds an unexpected sweet-spicy kick. Try it on fish tacos or carnitas.
- Biscuits and cornbread. Hot honey on warm cornbread with butter? Yes, please.
- Ice cream. This might sound weird, but trust me. Drizzle it over vanilla ice cream for a sweet-spicy dessert.
- Cocktails. Stir a spoonful into your tea or lemonade. It’s also amazing in a whiskey sour.
The list goes on. Once you start using it, you’ll find yourself reaching for it constantly.
Storage Tips
Storing your homemade hot honey is simple. But there are a few things you should know to keep it at its best.
Store it in an airtight glass jar at room temperature. A mason jar works perfectly. Keep it in your pantry or cabinet, away from direct sunlight. If you used dried red pepper flakes (like this recipe calls for), it will keep for up to 3 months.
If you used fresh peppers or added vinegar, store it in the fridge. It will last about 1 to 2 weeks that way. Just let it come to room temperature before using, or it will be too thick to drizzle.
Over time, you might notice the honey starting to crystallize. This is normal. It happens to all honey eventually. Just pop the jar in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or place it in a bowl of warm water for a few minutes. Give it a stir, and it will be smooth again.
Don’t worry about the hot sauce or vinegar causing spoilage. The honey itself is a natural preservative. As long as you’re storing it properly, you’re good.
Frequently Asked Questions
Now go make that hot honey and thank me later! Seriously, once you taste how easy and delicious this hot honey recipe is, you’ll wonder why you ever bought it. Drizzle it on everything. Share it with friends. Give it as gifts. This homemade condiment is a game changer.
And if you’re looking for more inspiration, check out my Pinterest page for tons of ideas on how to use this amazing spicy honey in your cooking.
Source: Research Source
What is hot honey made of?
Hot honey is made from honey infused with chili peppers or hot sauce. This recipe uses honey, hot sauce, and red pepper flakes. Simple ingredients that create a sweet and spicy condiment.
Is hot honey just honey and chilli flakes?
Pretty much, yes. This hot honey recipe uses honey, hot sauce, and red pepper flakes. The hot sauce adds a vinegary tang that balances the sweetness. But at its core, it’s honey plus heat.
How to make the best homemade hot honey?
The best homemade hot honey uses a microwave method that reduces the honey slightly for perfect thickness. Mix honey, hot sauce, and red pepper flakes. Microwave in bursts until reduced. Strain and enjoy.
What ingredients are in Mike’s Hot Honey?
Mike’s Hot Honey contains honey and chili peppers. This homemade hot honey recipe is a close copycat using honey, hot sauce, and red pepper flakes. The flavor is very similar, and it costs much less.
Should this honey be water-bath preserved?
No, water-bath canning is not necessary for this hot honey recipe. Honey is a natural preservative. Stored in an airtight jar at room temperature, it will keep for up to 3 months without any special processing.
How do you store this hot honey?
Store it in an airtight glass jar at room temperature. Keep it in your pantry or cabinet away from direct sunlight. If you used fresh peppers, store it in the fridge and use within a week.
How long will this keep? Refrigerated or just in cupboard?
This hot honey recipe will keep for up to 3 months in your cupboard at room temperature. No refrigeration needed if you used dried red pepper flakes. Just keep it in an airtight jar.
Does this require refrigeration?
No, refrigeration is not required for this hot honey recipe. Since it uses dried red pepper flakes and hot sauce, it’s shelf-stable. Store it in your pantry for up to 3 months.
How do you store it? Fridge or left out on shelf? For how long?
Leave it out on the shelf. Store this hot honey in an airtight jar at room temperature. It will last up to 3 months. If you see crystallization, just warm it up gently.
Can you taste the heat right away or does it take time as it sits?
You can taste the heat right away after making this hot honey recipe. The microwave infusion process extracts the capsaicin from the pepper flakes quickly. The flavor will deepen slightly over a few days.
How do you store the hot honey after you put in glass containers? Does it need to be refrigerated? If you make large batches should it be pressure canned?
No refrigeration needed. Store in glass containers at room temperature. Pressure canning is not necessary. Honey is a natural preservative. Large batches keep just fine in airtight jars for months.
How long will this last in a jar on the shelf?
This hot honey recipe will last up to 3 months in a sealed jar on your shelf. Honey is naturally antimicrobial. Just keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture.
For fresh peppers (habanero or scotch bonnet), do you recommend putting them in whole or chopped up?
Slice fresh peppers in half or chop them roughly. Remove the seeds for milder heat, or leave them in for extra spice. Let them steep in the warm honey for 10-15 minutes, then strain. Store in the fridge.
How is this stored? Room temperature or refrigerator?
Room temperature is perfect for this hot honey recipe. Store it in your pantry or kitchen cabinet. Only refrigerate if you used fresh peppers or added extra vinegar.
Do you have to refrigerate this since introducing apple cider vinegar to the recipe?
If you add apple cider vinegar, refrigeration is recommended. The vinegar lowers the pH slightly, but honey is still a strong preservative. It will keep for several weeks in the fridge.
What’s the shelf life on this? Can it remain in the pantry or does it need to go into the fridge because of the vinegar?
Without vinegar, this hot honey recipe stays good in your pantry for up to 3 months. With vinegar, refrigerate it. It will still last several weeks in the fridge.
Where should this be stored, in the fridge? Also how long does it keep?
Store this hot honey in your pantry at room temperature. It keeps for up to 3 months. If you see crystallization, just warm the jar in hot water for a few minutes.
How long will this hot honey keep?
This hot honey recipe will keep for up to 3 months when stored properly. Use an airtight glass jar and keep it in a cool, dark place like your pantry. No refrigeration needed.
How do you store it after it cools?
Let the hot honey cool to room temperature, then seal the jar tightly. Store it in your pantry or kitchen cabinet. That’s it. Simple and easy.
Do you refrigerate after cooling? And how long does it last?
No refrigeration needed. After cooling, store this hot honey at room temperature. It lasts up to 3 months in an airtight jar. Perfect for keeping on hand.
Can you can this? Water bath?
Water bath canning is not necessary for this hot honey recipe. Honey is naturally shelf-stable. Just store it in a clean glass jar with a tight lid. It will keep for months without any canning.
How long does hot honey last?
Homemade hot honey lasts up to 3 months when stored in an airtight jar at room temperature. If you use fresh peppers, it will last about 1 week in the fridge.
How do you use hot honey?
Drizzle hot honey on pizza, fried chicken, roasted vegetables, cheese boards, tacos, biscuits, cornbread, or even ice cream. It’s also great stirred into tea, lemonade, or cocktails.
Can I use fresh chili peppers instead of chili flakes?
Yes, you can use fresh chili peppers. Slice them and let them steep in the warm honey for 10-15 minutes. Strain before storing. If using fresh peppers, refrigerate your hot honey and use within a week.
Doesn’t heating honey negate its health benefits?
Heating honey can reduce some of its beneficial enzymes and antioxidants. However, this hot honey recipe uses gentle microwave heating for a short time, which minimizes nutrient loss. The flavor is worth it.