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Hot honey being drizzled over a pizza slice

Spicy chili-infused honey for drizzling

Hot Honey

Hot Honey

12 minEasy

Prep Time

2 min

Cook Time

10 min

Total Time

12 min

Servings

16

1 cup

Difficulty

Easy

Cost

Budget

$

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Hot Honey

Spicy chili-infused honey for drizzling

A sweet-heat condiment that transforms pizza, fried chicken, and biscuits with its addictive kick. This chili-infused honey takes just 10 minutes and keeps for months.

2m

Prep Time

10m

Cook Time

12m

Total Time

16

Servings

Easy

Difficulty

Budget $

Cost

Side DishVegetarianGluten-FreeDairy-Free
Sarah Chen
Sarah Chen

January 13, 2024(Updated April 12, 2026)

Hot honey has taken the food world by storm, and homemade is incredibly simple. Gently warming honey with chili flakes infuses it with a slow-building heat that complements rather than overpowers.

Why This Recipe Works

Low heat gently extracts capsaicin from the chili flakes without burning the honey. The vinegar adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness and makes the flavors pop.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup honey
  • 2 tbsp red pepper flakes
  • 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. 1

    Combine honey and red pepper flakes in a small saucepan over low heat.

  2. 2

    Warm gently for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally—do not let it boil.

  3. 3

    Remove from heat and stir in vinegar, cayenne, smoked paprika, and salt.

  4. 4

    Let steep for 10 minutes for mild heat, or longer for more spice.

  5. 5

    Strain through a fine-mesh sieve for smooth honey, or leave the flakes in for extra heat.

Serving Suggestions

Ways to Serve This Dish

  • Serve with a fresh side salad for a balanced meal

  • Pair with your favorite grain or bread on the side

  • Garnish with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation

Substitutions

Red pepper flakesFresh Thai chilies, sliced

More intense, different heat profile

HoneyAgave nectar

Vegan option with a milder sweetness

Tips & Storage

Pro Tips

  • Keep the heat low—boiling will darken the honey and make it bitter.

  • Leave the chili flakes in for hotter honey that intensifies over time.

Storage

Store at room temperature in a sealed jar for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Warm briefly in the microwave or hot water bath to make it pourable.

Nutrition Facts

Per serving (0mg) · 16 servings

Calories65
LowModerateHigh

A light, low-calorie option · based on a 2,000 cal daily diet

Protein0g
Carbohydrates0g
Fat17g
Fiber5mg
Sugar0g
Sodium17g

Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is hot honey?
Medium heat with a slow burn. Adjust chili flakes and cayenne to your preference.
What do you put hot honey on?
Pizza, fried chicken, biscuits, cheese boards, roasted vegetables, and cocktails.

Explore More

More Side DishVegetarian RecipesGluten-Free RecipesDairy-Free RecipesStovetop Recipes
Sarah Chen

About Sarah Chen

Sarah Chen is a professional recipe developer and food editor with over a decade of experience in test kitchens and food media. She trained at the Culinary Institute of America before spending six years developing and testing recipes for national food publications, where she honed her ability to translate restaurant techniques into approachable home cooking. At RecipePool, Sarah leads recipe development, ensuring every dish is tested at least three times for clarity, accuracy, and genuine deliciousness. When she is not in the kitchen, she is browsing farmers markets and collecting vintage cookbooks.

View all recipes →

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