For those who love layered flavours in their condiments, the hot honey tops the list of contemporary discoveries that has extended beyond its simplicity. As one of Google’s trending foods of 2025, the ‘swicy’ favourite is essentially made by infusing honey with fresh or dried chillies—the hotter, the better. Its bold profile supplemented by the capsaicin notes is appealing to anyone who prefers subtle spice notes that varies from the one-dimensional sweet chilli sauce which is used liberally in Asian and Continental food. The onset of social media gave the preparation much-needed spotlight, which has evolved into people adapting its utility across a number of applications. From fast food to fine dining, hot honey has been reflective of broader trend shifts where experimental eating and layering flavour have been greatly encouraged.
Drizzle On Food
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From pizzas to fried chicken, hot honey has found its haven in dishes that have an independent flavour profile of their own. Typically, the condiment either boosts flavour for foods that are high on texture while bringing additional depth to dishes that have a fair amount of vibrancy on their own. When drizzled over pies with meat toppings like pepperoni or prosciutto, the seasoning from the meats find great contrast in the sweet-spice of the hot honey. Using one that has been infused with fresh red chilli peppers is best for this application.
Glaze Meats
Roasted ham, turkey or even baked chicken wings can be zuzhed up with a hot honey-based glaze which not only supplies flavour but also enhances the visual appeal of the food. Include fresh or dried herbs as part of the infusion process while making the hot honey to introduce earthiness, and whole spices to cut through the richness of the meat. Not only does such an addition elevate comfort food instantly, it also gives it a modern spin on traditional, brown sugar glazes.
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In Mixology
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Trade the usual cocktail syrup for a delicious hot honey to include in margaritas, gin-based drinks and even simple highballs. Spruce up a regular margarita with a dash of the condiment to elevate its spice or simply swap the addition of chilli to a Bloody Maria cocktail with this. Drizzle it over an edible garnish to boost its visual appeal and flavour—the possibilities are endless. Hot honey can also be used as a base for neutral spirit cocktails which rely on flavour infusion from other ingredients, so feel free to experiment with vodka and tequila by pairing seasonal ingredients.
Cheese Board Addition
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Given that the holiday season has officially commenced, grazing tables and cheese boards are becoming frequent features at gatherings. Place a jar of hot honey as part of the display for guests to pair it with a variety of cheeses, cold cuts, breads, olives and other ingredients. Best enjoyed with soft cheeses with a heightened savoury profile such as brie, blue cheese or goat cheese, make canapes out of sourdough crackers layered with either of these and a few drops of the sweet-spicy condiment over it.
Finishing Touches
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Use the hot honey as a finishing touch to brush over roast vegetables or even festive cakes for an unusual flourish of spiced sweetness. Add a spoonful as the final garnish for a warm salad that is made using seasonal ingredients such as beetroots or citrus fruit. Make an ice cream sundae exciting by using the condiment to highlight and balance the richness of the dessert. For a surprisingly spicy twist, replace regular sweetener with a spoonful of the spice-infused one in a Mexican hot chocolate for a truly warm beverage.