How to Make Hot Honey at Home

Honey
Photo by Art Rachen on Unsplash

Hot honey, I’m home! Forgive the dad joke, we couldn’t resist, but in all seriousness, hot honey has become a hot topic in the culinary corners of the internet over the last few years. Chefs, food bloggers, and home cooks alike have widely sung praises for the sweet and spicy condiment as a versatile addition to all kinds of dishes and drinks. Several brands are now available at most grocery stores, though we like to save money by making our own. Here’s how.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup honey (any kind will work, but we like clover honey for its neutral flavor)
  • 2 tablespoons red pepper flakes
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

  1. In a small saucepan, heat honey over low-medium heat until it becomes liquid.
  2. Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt.
  3. Stir the mixture well and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes to give the flavors time to meld.
  4. Take a small spoonful of honey and allow it to cool. Taste, then adjust the spice level as needed depending on your preference. 
  5. Once the desired spiciness is achieved, remove the saucepan from heat and let the honey come to room temperature.
  6. Pour the honey through a fine-mesh strainer into a jar to remove any solid particles. Let it cool completely before sealing.
  7. Store in a cool, dark place. Enjoy your hot honey on pizza, fried chicken, or even as a spicy drizzle on desserts!