Hot honeys are favored by foodies for their ability to elevate just about any dish, sweet or savory, starting with taking a fried chicken sandwich to the next level or adding zesty sweetness to a classic PB&J. We've tracked down some of the most popular brands so you can enjoy this gooey goodness at home. Our selections are ranked from best down to one that's worthy in a pinch.
Honeys get hot because they’re infused with fresh or dried chili peppers, but recipes — and heat levels — vary. The Brazilian condiment picked up heat here (pun intended) when Mike Kurtz began drizzling it on pizzas he sold at a shop in Brooklyn, New York, in 2010. Soon, customers and other pizzerias were asking to buy it in bulk. It’s now sold everywhere, on supermarket shelves and online.
You can use hot honey on just about anything: pizzas, fried chicken, salads, tacos, ice cream, fresh fruit, and even cocktails such as a spicy margarita or Aperol spritz.
$25 for two
Of course Kurtz's original concoction is the best. Infused with real chili peppers and a dash of vinegar, Mike's Hot Honey has the perfect amount of heat to give a slight mouth-tingling kick to favorite dishes, but it's sweet and mild enough to keep you wanting more. True fans can buy a 192-ounce jug for $137.
For more great food tips, please sign up for our free newsletters.
$14
If your spice tolerance is on the higher side, BK's Spicy Honey is a solid choice. Made from fresh habanero peppers and polyfloral honey, this recipe has a fruity finish that packs some serious heat. Bees Knees Spicy Honey is also climate-pledge friendly, which means its products are made without harm to the natural world. The brand's other sauces include a gochujang Sriracha and spicy maple syrup.
$25 for two
Packing some serious heat, Mike's Extra Hot Honey is not for the faint of mouth. That said, it’s not spicy to the point of a painful burn, and leaves you coming back for more.
$13
Cinnamon sets this sauce apart. Tangy and nutty with a medium-heat finish, The Spicy Shark's Hot Honey is a great pairing with sweet, tangy dishes such as orange chicken, stir-fries, and roasted meats. It can also infuse deeper flavor to marinades and salad dressings.
$3
Trader Joe’s is known for its snacks and sauces, and the store’s hot honey does not disappoint. Made with chili pepper spices and organic vinegar, this sauce has a smooth and balanced flavor profile. Try adding it to sandwiches, pizza, or shrimp tacos to elevate quick meals. It’s also good with pasta dishes and breakfast tacos, and at only $3 per bottle, it's a deal.
$10
Featuring bright citrusy notes, Nature Nate's Hot Honey is popular with customers who prefer a milder taste — or for those newly embarking on adventurous food journeys. Thanks to its balanced finish, it makes a great addition to a charcuterie board, or as a topping for ice creams and smoothies.
$8
Though coming in last, this CVS brand of hot honey is surprisingly good. Its smoky notes of paprika and black pepper make it worth a try when stocking up on essentials, especially at the price. Add a dash to a favorite soup, or use it to top off pancakes and other sweet dishes.
