Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This hot honey sauce is incredibly easy to make and versatile. The sweetness of the honey pairs beautifully with the heat from the chili flakes and chili powder, while the hint of lemon juice adds a refreshing touch. It’s the perfect condiment to elevate anything from chicken wings to roasted vegetables. The best part? It’s made in just two minutes and will last for up to two weeks, so you can always have some on hand for your next meal.
Ingredients
- ½ cup honey
- ¾ teaspoon chili flakes (or more, to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon lemon zest (optional, grated)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Combine Ingredients
In a small saucepan, combine the honey, chili flakes, chili powder, lemon juice, and grated lemon zest (if using). - Heat the Sauce
Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the honey becomes runny and warm. Be careful not to let it boil, as that can affect the texture and flavor of the honey. - Cool and Adjust
Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the sauce to cool slightly. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more chili flakes if you want it spicier or more lemon juice for an extra tang. - Store the Sauce
Pour the sauce into a clean, airtight glass container. It will keep on the shelf for up to 2 weeks.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8 tablespoons
- Prep Time: 1 minute
- Cook Time: 1 minute
- Total Time: 2 minutes
Variations
- Garlic Infused Hot Honey: Add 1-2 teaspoons of garlic powder or finely minced garlic for a garlicky twist.
- Butter Hot Honey Sauce: Add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter to the sauce for a creamy texture and richer flavor.
- Extra Heat: If you prefer an even spicier sauce, increase the chili flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
Storage
- Storage: Keep the hot honey sauce in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. It can also be stored in the refrigerator, but it may thicken slightly.
- Reheating: If the sauce thickens too much, simply warm it up on low heat before using.
FAQs
Can I make this sauce spicier?
Yes, you can adjust the heat to your liking by increasing the amount of chili flakes or chili powder. If you want it really spicy, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper.
Can I use a different type of honey?
Yes, the flavor of the sauce will vary depending on the type of honey you use. A mild honey, such as clover honey, will give a subtle sweetness, while a stronger honey, like buckwheat honey, will add more depth to the sauce.
Can I add other spices to the hot honey sauce?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with additional spices like smoked paprika, garlic powder, or even cinnamon to create a more complex flavor profile.
What can I use this hot honey sauce with?
This sauce is incredibly versatile! Drizzle it on fried chicken, pizza, roasted vegetables, or even pancakes. It also makes an excellent dip for fries or cheese sticks.
Can I make this hot honey sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container. It’s perfect for prepping ahead of time, and it lasts for up to 2 weeks!
Can I make this sauce without lemon juice?
While lemon juice adds a nice tang to the sauce, it’s optional. If you prefer a simpler version, you can omit it or substitute with a dash of apple cider vinegar for a similar effect.
Conclusion
Homemade Hot Honey Sauce is a must-try condiment that brings a delicious balance of sweet and spicy to your dishes. It’s quick, easy to make, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect addition to a variety of meals. Whether you’re using it as a dip or drizzling it on your favorite dish, this hot honey sauce will elevate your cooking to new heights. Enjoy!
Homemade Hot Honey Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 1 minute
- Cook Time: 1 minute
- Total Time: 2 minutes
- Yield: 8 tablespoons
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Homemade Hot Honey Sauce is a perfect balance of sweet and spicy, made with just four simple ingredients in 2 minutes. Ideal for drizzling on fried chicken, pizza, or as a dip, this sauce adds a delightful kick to any dish.
Ingredients
½ cup honey
¾ teaspoon chili flakes (or more, to taste)
¼ teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon lemon juice (or to taste)
¼ teaspoon lemon zest (optional, grated)
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, combine the honey, chili flakes, chili powder, lemon juice, and grated lemon zest (if using).
- Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the honey becomes runny and warm. Avoid boiling to maintain the texture and flavor.
- Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more chili flakes or lemon juice as needed.
- Pour into a clean, airtight glass container. Store at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
If you want extra heat, increase the chili flakes or add cayenne pepper.
Garlic powder or minced garlic can be added for a garlicky twist.
Add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter for a creamier texture.
Use different types of honey for varied flavor profiles, from mild clover honey to deep, rich buckwheat honey.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 60
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
