This recipe will walk you through all the steps of how to make hot honey sauce at home.
If you’ve ever tried hot honey sauce, you know just how addictive it can be. The perfect blend of sweet and spicy, it’s the kind of sauce that can elevate just about any dish—from crispy fried chicken to a simple slice of pizza. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make at home, and once you try it, you’ll be drizzling it on everything.
Why You’ll Love This Hot Honey Sauce
There’s something about the combination of honey’s natural sweetness with a kick of heat that makes this sauce irresistible. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of spice to your morning toast or want a quick glaze for grilled meats, hot honey sauce is versatile enough to do it all. Plus, it takes just minutes to whip up a batch, and you can customize the level of heat to your liking.
The Recipe: How to Make Hot Honey Sauce
With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a sauce that’s perfectly balanced and bursting with flavor. Here’s how to do it:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup honey
- 2–3 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Sriracha, depending on how spicy you like it)
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (for a touch of tang)
- A pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Warm the Honey:
In a small saucepan, gently heat the honey over low heat. You want it to be warm and fluid, but not boiling.
2. Add the Heat:
Stir in the hot sauce, adjusting the amount based on your preferred level of spiciness. Add the crushed red pepper flakes if you want an extra kick.
3. Balance the Flavors:
Stir in the apple cider vinegar and a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness and heat.
4. Let It Simmer:
Allow the mixture to simmer for a minute or two, just to meld the flavors together. Be careful not to overheat, as the honey can scorch easily.
5. Cool and Store:
Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before transferring to a jar (how cute are these on Amazon – love the lids!) or squeeze bottle. Store in the refrigerator for up to a month.
How To Make Hot Honey Sauce
Ingredients
- 1 cup honey
- 2-3 tbsp hot sauce such as Sriracha, depending on how spicy you like it
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional for extra heat
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar for a touch of tang
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
- Warm the Honey: In a small saucepan, gently heat the honey over low heat. You want it to be warm and fluid, but not boiling.
- Add the Heat: Stir in the hot sauce, adjusting the amount based on your preferred level of spiciness. Add the crushed red pepper flakes if you want an extra kick.
- Balance the Flavors: Stir in the apple cider vinegar and a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness and heat.
- Let It Simmer: Allow the mixture to simmer for a minute or two, just to meld the flavors together. Be careful not to overheat, as the honey can scorch easily.
- Cool and Store: Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before transferring to a jar or squeeze bottle. Store in the refrigerator for up to a month.
Ways to Use Hot Honey Sauce
Once you’ve made your hot honey sauce, the possibilities are endless. Here are a few of my favorite ways to use it:
- Drizzle over Fried Chicken: The sweet heat pairs perfectly with the crispy, savory goodness of fried chicken.
- Spice Up Your Pizza: Add a drizzle over a slice of pizza for a unique and flavorful twist.
- Glaze for Grilled Meats: Brush it on chicken, pork, or ribs during the last few minutes of grilling for a sticky, spicy glaze.
- Elevate Your Breakfast: Try it on biscuits, waffles, or even a bowl of oatmeal for a surprising kick.
- Add to Cheese Boards: Serve alongside cheeses for a sweet and spicy contrast that pairs beautifully with creamy or sharp varieties. This would pair so well with our Fall Charcuterie Board Recipe
Why Make It at Home?
Making hot honey sauce at home allows you to control the heat level and experiment with different types of hot sauces. Plus, homemade always tastes fresher, and it’s free from any preservatives or artificial ingredients that might be in store-bought versions.
So, next time you’re in the mood for something sweet and spicy, give this homemade hot honey sauce a try. It’s quick, easy, and sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
