If you haven’t tried hot honey in your cooking yet, now’s the time to jump on this flavor-packed trend. The combination of sweetness and gentle heat makes it a must-have ingredient for adding a little something extra to your meals. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just love experimenting in the kitchen, here are five deliciously creative ways to use hot honey that are sure to spice up your culinary repertoire.
1. Transform Your Pizza Night
Hot honey and pizza are a match made in heaven. After pulling your favourite pie out of the oven, drizzle on some hot honey for a touch of sweet heat. It pairs particularly well with savoury and salty toppings like pepperoni, sausage, or even a classic Margherita pizza. For adventurous eaters, try it on a pizza with goat cheese and caramelized onions to really amplify the flavours.
2. Elevate Roasted Vegetables
Tired of the same old roasted veggies? Hot honey might just be the secret to turning simple side dishes into the star of your meal. Toss vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes in a mixture of olive oil and hot honey before roasting. The honey caramelizes in the oven, creating a balanced glaze that’s sweet, spicy, and oh-so-addictive.
3. Take Fried Chicken to the Next Level
There’s nothing quite like the crunch of fried chicken, but add a drizzle of hot honey, and you’re in another league entirely. The sweetness cuts through the richness of the chicken, while the heat adds a bold kick. Whether you’re making chicken wings or classic drumsticks, this simple addition will have everyone asking for your recipe.
4. Sweet and Spicy Cocktails
Hot honey isn’t just for food; it’s an unexpected but delightful addition to your cocktail game. Use it to spice up a margarita, whiskey sour, or even a hot toddy. Simply mix it into your drink or use it to coat the rim of the glass for a subtle kick with each sip. It’s an easy way to impress guests with a drink that hits both sweet and spicy notes.
5. Desserts with a Twist
Hot honey and desserts might not sound like a natural pairing, but trust us—it works! Drizzle it over vanilla ice cream or cheesecake for a surprising flavour boost. You can also use it to glaze baked goods like biscuits, scones, or cornbread. The contrast of spicy honey with the sweetness of dessert creates a flavour profile that’s anything but ordinary.
Get Creative and Get Cooking!
Hot honey is as versatile as it is delicious, making it a great addition to any home cook’s pantry. Whether you’re topping your favourite pizza, glazing vegetables, or stirring it into bold cocktails, it’s guaranteed to bring your dishes to life. Give one (or all) of these ideas a try, and watch your cooking go from good to unforgettable.
What’s your favourite way to use hot honey? Share your ideas and inspire even more creativity in the kitchen!