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If you’ve been to a trendy restaurant lately or browsed the specialty condiment aisle, chances are you’ve seen hot honey.

This sweet-and-spicy drizzle is the perfect way to take everyday meals from ordinary to crave-worthy. The best part? You don’t need to spend big bucks on a fancy bottle—you can make it at home with just a few simple ingredients.

Hot honey is versatile, easy to whip up, and stores beautifully. Whether you’re drizzling it over fried chicken, pizza, biscuits, or even vanilla ice cream, this fiery honey will quickly become a kitchen staple.

What is Hot Honey?

Hot honey is exactly what it sounds like—honey infused with chili peppers for a sweet, sticky condiment that carries a punch of heat. You control the spiciness by choosing your peppers and adjusting the steeping time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 cup honey (a mild variety like clover or wildflower works best)
• 2–3 fresh chili peppers (such as jalapeños, Fresno, or habaneros for extra heat)
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for more spice)
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (for a little tang, optional)

How to Make Hot Honey

1. Slice the Peppers
   Thinly slice your chili peppers, leaving the seeds in if you prefer a spicier flavor.
2. Warm the Honey
   In a small saucepan, add honey and sliced peppers. Warm over low heat—do not let it boil, or the honey can scorch.
3. Infuse the Flavor
   Let the honey and peppers gently simmer for 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste along the way to gauge the spice level.
4. Strain (Optional)
   For a smooth hot honey, strain out the peppers and seeds. If you prefer a rustic look, leave them in.
5. Add Vinegar (Optional)
   Stir in apple cider vinegar for balance.
6. Cool and Store
   Pour the hot honey into a glass jar, let it cool, and store it in a cool, dry place. It will keep for up to 3 months.

Ways to Use Hot Honey

This condiment is endlessly versatile. Here are a few delicious ways to enjoy it:

• Drizzle over fried chicken or panko fried chicken nuggets.
• Pair with pizza for that sweet-spicy kick.
• Stir into a hot cup of tea.
• Spread on biscuits, cornbread, or toast.
• Add a spicy twist to charcuterie boards with cheese.
• Drizzle over roasted veggies.
• Pour over vanilla ice cream for a sweet heat dessert.

Final Thoughts

Making homemade hot honey is as easy as simmering and infusing—it’s one of those recipes where a little effort brings huge flavor payoff. Once you have a jar on hand, you’ll find yourself reaching for it constantly to add a bold, sweet heat to your meals.

Check Out These Other Yummy Sauce Recipes

• Jezebel Sauce
• Two-Ingredient Cheese Sauce
• Homemade Sweet and Sour Sauce