What ingredients do I need to make hot honey at home?

To make hot honey, you need honey and spicy peppers, which can be fresh or dried such as jalapeños, serranos, or crushed red pepper flakes. Many recipes also include a small amount of vinegar—apple cider or red wine vinegar—to balance the flavors, but this is optional. Additional seasonings like salt, cinnamon, or chipotle powder can be used for variation. The simplicity of these ingredients makes hot honey easy to customize to your taste.

How do I make hot honey without it boiling over?

When making hot honey, gently warm the honey and peppers over low to medium-low heat to avoid boiling over. Honey can bubble up quickly if overheated, so watch it closely and stir frequently. Once it reaches a light simmer, remove it from heat and let the peppers infuse as the mixture cools. This method helps extract the pepper heat without creating a messy boil over.

How long does homemade hot honey last, and how should I store it?

Homemade hot honey made with dried peppers typically lasts up to 3 months stored at room temperature in a sealed glass jar. If using fresh peppers or citrus juice instead of vinegar, store it in the refrigerator and use it within one week to prevent spoilage. Proper storage helps maintain quality and flavor while keeping the honey safe to eat.

Can I adjust the spiciness level of hot honey?

Yes, the heat level can be controlled by the type and amount of peppers used and how long you let the honey infuse. Using milder peppers or fewer flakes results in a subtler spice, while hotter varieties like habaneros or longer infusion times increase the heat. You can also strain out the peppers early for less intensity or leave them in for a stronger kick.

What are some popular ways to use hot honey in cooking and serving?

Hot honey pairs well with a variety of foods such as drizzling over pizza, roasted vegetables, fried chicken, biscuits, or cheese boards. It can also be used to add a spicy sweetness to salad dressings, cocktails, and desserts. Its versatility makes it a great condiment for both savory dishes and sweet treats, adding flavor depth and a pleasant heat balance.

Hot Honey Recipe with Steak and Shrimp Stir Fry Dinner

Name: hot honey recipe
Prep time: PT-487218H44M59S
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: PT-487218H39M59S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup honey; 2 to 3 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes; 1 fresh jalapeño pepper, sliced; 1 to 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar; 1 to 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar; Pinch of salt

Description

🍯 Hot Honey brings a delicious blend of sweetness and heat that enhances a variety of dishes with bold flavors.
🌶️ Easily customizable, this condiment can be tailored for spice lovers and adds a vibrant kick to meals like steak and shrimp stir fry.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup honey

2 to 3 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes

1 fresh jalapeño pepper, sliced

1 to 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar

1 to 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar

Pinch of salt

Instructions

First Step: Gather and measure ingredients Measure 1 cup honey and 2 to 3 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes (or prepare 1 fresh jalapeño sliced). Have vinegar and salt ready for later addition. Set up a medium saucepan and a clean jar for storage.

Second Step: Heat honey and infuse spice Pour honey and crushed red pepper flakes (or sliced jalapeño) into the saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent boiling over. Allow the mixture to gently simmer for about 3-5 minutes, infusing the spicy flavors into the honey.

Third Step: Remove and rest Take the saucepan off the heat and let the hot honey rest for 10 to 15 minutes. This allowing time helps the heat get fully infused. For stronger heat, extend the infusion time or add more peppers.

Fourth Step: Strain and season Strain the honey through a fine mesh strainer into a clean jar to remove pepper solids if you prefer a smooth sauce. Stir in 1 to 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar to add bright acidity and balance the sweetness. Add a pinch of salt if desired.

Final Step: Serve or store Use the hot honey immediately as a glaze, dipping sauce, or drizzle. Alternatively, seal the jar and store at room temperature if using dried peppers, or refrigerate if fresh peppers or lime juice are included. Use within recommended timeframes for best flavor and food safety.

Notes

🌸 Use local honey to support bee populations and ensure rich flavor.
🌶️ Adjust heat by varying pepper types and infusion times for personalized spice levels.
🍋 Adding vinegar or lime juice balances sweetness and adds complexity to the flavor.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Infusion time: 10-15 minutes (longer for more heat)
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Condiment
Method: Simmering and infusing
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 tablespoon

Keywords: hot honey, spicy honey, sweet and spicy condiment, chili infused honey