Hot Honey Recipe

Make your own spicy and sweet hot honey at home with just a few ingredients. Perfect for drizzling on pizza, glazing meats, or adding a flavorful kick to snacks and drinks. This quick and easy recipe combines honey with red pepper flakes or jalapeños for adjustable heat, and a touch of apple cider vinegar for balance. Great for meal prep and versatile in use, this homemade condiment is a must-try for bold flavor lovers.

Ingredients

Scale

• 1 cup honey
• 2 to 3 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes or 1 fresh jalapeño pepper, sliced
• 1 to 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar

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Instructions

1. Simmer
   Combine the honey and crushed red pepper flakes (or jalapeño slices) in a medium sauté pan or saucepan. Heat over medium heat just until the honey begins to lightly simmer. Stir to blend the flavors, then remove the pan from the heat.
2. Rest
   Allow the mixture to rest for 10 to 15 minutes to infuse the flavors.
3. Taste
   Sample the honey to gauge the heat level. For a spicier result, add more red pepper flakes or jalapeño slices and let it steep longer if needed.
4. Strain
   Once the honey reaches your preferred spice level, strain it through a fine mesh strainer into a clean storage jar. Stir in the apple cider vinegar until well combined.
5. Serve or Store
   Use the hot honey immediately or transfer it to an airtight jar for storage. (Refer to storage tips below.)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Versatile: Perfect as a glaze, drizzle, or marinade.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples in just minutes.
• Elevates Dishes: Adds a sweet and spicy kick to anything from pizza to roasted vegetables.

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Tips

• For a milder spice, reduce the quantity of red pepper flakes or jalapeños.
• Use high-quality honey for the best flavor.
• Ensure the honey doesn’t boil; a gentle simmer is all you need.
• Straining isn’t mandatory if you like the texture of pepper flakes or jalapeño slices.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Citrus Twist: Add a splash of lemon juice for a citrusy zing.
• Smoky Flavor: Mix in a pinch of smoked paprika or chipotle powder.
• Different Vinegar: Swap apple cider vinegar for rice vinegar or white balsamic.
• Herbal Infusion: Add a sprig of rosemary or thyme during simmering for a unique flavor.

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FAQs

How long does hot honey last?
Stored in a clean, airtight jar at room temperature, it can last for up to 3 months.

Can I make it less spicy?
Absolutely! Use fewer red pepper flakes or jalapeños, or steep it for a shorter time.

What if my honey crystallizes?
Gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat until it liquefies again.

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Serving Suggestions

• Drizzle over pizza, fried chicken, or roasted vegetables.
• Use as a glaze for meats like salmon or pork.
• Stir into tea or cocktails for a sweet and spicy twist.
• Pair with cheese boards or biscuits for an elevated snack.