Hot honey has become a popular condiment in the United States over the past decade, especially in the Midwest and South, where it is used to add a sweet‑spicy glaze to fried foods and pizza. Its rise is tied to the craft food movement that celebrates local honey and bold flavors.

In American cuisine, hot honey is typically drizzled over pizza, fried chicken, biscuits, or roasted vegetables. It is also used as a finishing sauce for cheese boards and as a sweet‑spicy dip for pretzels.

Hot honey is a favorite at casual gatherings, game‑day parties, and backyard barbecues. It also appears on menus for brunches and food festivals where creative condiments are highlighted.

The authentic recipe uses raw local honey, red crushed pepper flakes, and a splash of apple cider vinegar. Acceptable substitutes include agave nectar for honey, cayenne pepper for pepper flakes, and white vinegar or lemon juice for the vinegar component.

Hot honey pairs beautifully with fried chicken, chicken wings, pizza, roasted carrots, brie cheese, and even ice cream for an adventurous dessert. The YouTube channel KITCHENTOOL often suggests using it on breakfast biscuits and grilled cheese.

Hot honey blends two classic American flavor profiles—sweet honey and spicy pepper—mirroring the country’s love for bold, layered condiments like barbecue sauce and sriracha. It reflects the modern trend of hybrid sauces that combine sweet, salty, and heat.

The most common mistakes are overheating the honey, which can cause bitterness, and not allowing enough infusion time for the pepper flakes. Also, adding too much vinegar can make the sauce overly tangy.

A 15‑minute rest lets the pepper flakes infuse the honey without breaking down the delicate flavors that can be lost during prolonged heat. This method preserves the honey’s natural sweetness while still delivering heat.

Yes, hot honey can be made a day or two ahead. Store it in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to two weeks; bring it to room temperature before drizzling for optimal consistency.

The YouTube channel KITCHENTOOL specializes in quick, practical kitchen hacks and simple recipes that use everyday tools, focusing on making cooking accessible for home cooks of all skill levels.