If you’re wondering what hot honey is, it’s a spice-infused honey. Spices are added to the base of honey, to create a sweet and spicy condiment that’s popular with chefs and foodies globally.
For top results from this hot honey recipe, start by using a mild-flavored honey for a neutral base in which to infuse your chosen ingredients. Honey varieties, such as wildflower or clover, work best. And for more tips on which honey to choose, take a look at this helpful advice from a Michelin-starred chef, simplifying the world of honey.
When warming the honey, make sure it doesn’t boil. If the honey boils over it can turn very bitter. It only needs about five minutes in the pan to warm through and infuse with the peppers.
Adjusting the Heat Level
In this homemade hot honey recipe we’ve shared an option with a mild heat level, infusing spice with the fresh jalapeño peppers and the warmth of the smoked paprika. However, you can adjust the heat level to make it hotter if preferable for your palate.
Dried red chili pepper flakes can be easily added to the honey after warming through to bring a stronger kick to the sauce. You can also use a pepper higher up on the Scoville scale of heat than a jalapeño, such as a habanero or Scotch bonnet, for a spicier finish to your hot honey.
What to Serve It With
Hot honey is incredibly versatile and can be added to a wide range of dishes. Try drizzling it over your favorite pizza crust to bring a kick of sweet heat to your usual toppings. It’s also perfect for side dishes, such as honey-roasted carrots or parsnips, adding a touch of spice.
Or, for a spicy start to the day, drizzle it over your preferred breakfast dish. It’s irresistible poured over a stack of fluffy pancakes or crispy waffles for a more complex taste than syrup. And for a flavorful finish to a dinner party, add it to a cheese board. Hot honey is delicious paired with sharp cheeses, such as blue cheese and Cheddar.
Storage and Shelf Life
Hot honey should be stored in a clean, dry jar that's ideally been sterilized first to prevent any risk of contamination. Shelf life will vary depending on the honey and ingredients used. The recipe above will keep for up to two weeks as it features fresh jalapeño peppers, but if you don’t use fresh peppers, hot honey can be stored for months.
It’s best kept in a dark pantry for longer-term storage. Keep an eye out for any signs of spoilage, such as mold or a sour smell. If you notice any of these signs, then it’s time to make a fresh batch.
