Hot honey sauce

Hot honey sauce is a bold yet simple condiment that blends natural honey sweetness with gentle heat from chili flakes and a touch of acidity. The result is a sticky, glossy sauce that instantly upgrades both savory and sweet dishes, from fried chicken and pizza to roasted vegetables and biscuits.

Making hot honey at home gives you full control over the heat level and flavor balance. With just a few pantry ingredients and minimal cooking time, this sauce comes together quickly and develops even more flavor as it rests, making it a versatile staple for everyday cooking.

Equipment

• Small saucepan
• Wooden spoon or heat-safe spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Heat-safe glass jar or bottle

Ingredients

• 1 cup honey
• 2 to 3 tablespoons red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 garlic clove, finely minced
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat

Instructions

• Add the honey to a small saucepan and place over low heat.
• Stir in the chili flakes, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, and salt.
• Heat gently while stirring, allowing the mixture to warm and lightly simmer.
• Keep the heat low and let the flavors infuse for 5 to 6 minutes.
• Taste and adjust heat by adding more chili flakes or cayenne if desired.
• Remove from heat and allow the sauce to cool slightly.
• Pour into a clean, heat-safe jar or bottle.
• Let sit at room temperature to deepen flavor before using.

Recipe Info

• Prep Time: 2 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Servings: About 1 cup
• Cuisine: American
• Course: Sauce / Condiment

How to store

Store hot honey in a sealed jar at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 1 month. Stir or gently warm before use if it thickens.

What not to do

Do not boil the honey, as high heat can burn it and alter the flavor.
Do not add too much heat at once; spice intensifies as the sauce rests.
Do not store in a damp or unclean container, as moisture can cause spoilage.

Tips & Variations

Use smoked chili flakes for a smoky flavor.
Add a splash of lemon or lime juice for extra brightness.
Infuse with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for depth.
Strain out chili flakes for a smoother drizzle if preferred.

Approximate Nutrition

• Calories: ~60 per tablespoon
• Fat: 0 g
• Protein: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: ~17 g
• Sugar: ~17 g
• Sodium: ~20 mg

Conclusion

Hot honey sauce is an easy, flavor-packed condiment that adds sweet heat to countless dishes. With minimal effort and clean ingredients, it delivers bold taste while remaining flexible and customizable. A small jar goes a long way, making it a simple but powerful addition to your kitchen.

FAQs

How spicy is hot honey?
The spice level depends on how much chili you use. You can make it mild or very hot based on preference.

Can I use fresh chilies instead of flakes?
Yes, finely sliced fresh chilies can be used, but they will create a sharper heat.

Does hot honey need refrigeration?
It can stay at room temperature short-term, but refrigeration extends shelf life.

What foods pair best with hot honey?
It works well on fried chicken, pizza, roasted vegetables, grilled meats, and even ice cream.

Is hot honey gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.