Sweet meets heat in this easy homemade hot honey, perfect for drizzling on everything from chicken wings to cheese platters.

Scale

1 cup honey (clover, wildflower, or orange blossom)

2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste or swap with cayenne/hot sauce)

1 tsp apple cider vinegar (adds depth and balances sweetness)

1. In a small saucepan, pour the honey and place over low heat. Stir gently to warm it—don’t let it boil.

2. Add red pepper flakes. Stir to distribute evenly.

3. Let it simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Remove from heat and stir in vinegar.

5. Let it cool, then strain if desired or leave flakes in for added heat.

6. Transfer to a jar. Store at room temperature up to 3 months.

Use low heat to preserve honey’s natural enzymes.

Drizzle on pizza, roasted vegetables, cheese, or breakfast items.

For gifting, store in mason jars with dried herbs.

If crystallized, warm gently in hot water.

Reuse strained flakes in condiments like mustard or mayo.

Keywords: hot honey, spicy honey, chili honey, sweet heat