Hot honey might be known as the ultimate pizza companion, but its sweet and fiery charm can elevate so much more than your favourite slice. From bold new flavour pairings to subtle finishing touches, hot honey has the versatility to skyrocket even the simplest dishes (and drinks!) to mouth-watering perfection.
Here are six innovative ways to make hot honey the star of your everyday meals—no pizza slices required!
1. Perk up Your Salads
Hot honey might not sound like your typical salad dressing ingredient, but trust us—it's a game-changer. Picture this: crispy lettuce, creamy goat’s cheese, a scattering of walnuts, and a drizzle of hot honey dressing. The combination of sweet, spicy, and tangy is next-level delicious.
How to Use It
- Honey Mustard Vinaigrette
Whisk together hot honey, olive oil, a splash of apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt for a bold dressing that transforms any salad into a gourmet feast.
- Drizzle Over Fruits
Add sweetness with a kick to fruity salads featuring watermelon, orange slices, or berries—ideal for summer picnics.
Hot honey salads work particularly well with bitter greens like rocket or kale, balancing their sharpness with its signature heat.
2. Upgrade Your Breakfast Game
Who says hot honey is only for savoury dishes? It brings unbeatable flavour to your morning favourites.
How to Use It
- Hot Honeyed Pancakes
Swap your usual syrup for hot honey drizzle over pancakes or waffles. Add crispy bacon for a sweet-spicy-salty combo that can’t be beaten.
- Spicy Smoothie Bowls
Drip a small amount of hot honey onto yoghurt or smoothie bowls for a punchy topping alongside fresh fruit, nuts, or granola.
Breakfast just got a whole lot spicier—and tastier too!
3. Make Your Drinks Sizzle
Hot honey isn't just for food—it adds intrigue to cocktails and mocktails too. Its heat creates a unique depth of flavour, whether you’re whipping up something refreshing or bold.
How to Use It
- Hot Honey Lemonade
Stir a spoonful into fresh lemonade for a surprisingly spicy twist. It’s a perfect picnic drink or refreshing summer treat.
- Spicy Margarita
Swap out standard simple syrup for hot honey in your margarita—tequila, lime, and spice? Yes, please.
- Warm Drinks
Stir hot honey into a steaming mug of green tea, spiced cider, or hot toddies to add a comforting kick on chilly evenings.
For cocktail connoisseurs or tea lovers alike, hot honey delivers flair that’s sure to impress.
4. Take Your Charcuterie Boards Up a Notch
Charcuterie boards are already an entertainer’s dream—easy to assemble yet impressive to serve. But introduce hot honey? Your board just went gourmet.
How to Use It
- Pair with Cheese
Drizzle hot honey over Brie, camembert, or blue cheese for a luxurious blend of creamy, sweet, and spicy. Add crusty bread to complete the experience.
- Dip for Cured Meats
Sopressata, chorizo, or prosciutto paired with hot honey? The spicy glaze contrasts beautifully with the saltiness of cured meats.
Place a little dish of hot honey directly on the board for dipping or drizzling—it’ll be the showstopper of the spread.
5. Revamp Your Roasted Veggies
If sautéed or roasted vegetables seem too plain, hot honey will breathe life back into these wholesome side dishes. The sugar caramelises perfectly under heat, while the spice intensifies the earthy flavour of the veg.
How to Use It
- Drizzle After Roasting
Roast carrots, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts with olive oil, then finish with a warm drizzle of hot honey before serving.
- Glaze Before Cooking
Use hot honey as part of a glaze to coat squash or root vegetables. Roast until golden and sticky for irresistible finger-licking goodness.
Even occasional veggie-dodgers won’t be able to resist this sweet and spicy revamp.
6. Turn Plain Desserts into Showstoppers
Think hot honey doesn’t belong on the dessert table? Think again! A little drizzle of heat can make even the simplest desserts unforgettable.
How to Use It
- Drizzle Over Ice Cream
Think vanilla, chocolate, or salted caramel topped with hot honey—it’s the ultimate sweet-spicy combo.
- Spice Up Your Cheesecake
Add a touch of sophistication to cheesecakes or tarts by using hot honey as a sticky garnish.
- Popcorn Upgrade
Toss freshly popped popcorn with melted butter and a drizzle of hot honey. Sweet-and-spicy film nights, sorted!
Once you’ve tasted hot honey dessert magic, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner.
Spice Up Your Meals Every Day
Whether it’s a light drizzle or a bold glaze, hot honey’s versatility proves it’s more than just a pizza topping. From spicy cocktails to flavourful grilled veggies, there are endless ways to experiment and enjoy this sweet, fiery condiment. Give it a go in your kitchen—you might just discover a new favourite!
