Easy Hot Honey Simple Syrup Recipe

A fun new take sweetened syrup, this Hot Honey Simple Syrup Recipe turns the heat up-just a bit or a lot, you decide! It's a sweet heat sensation that adds a bold, spicy twist to cocktails and mocktails alike in just 5 minutes! The base of this fancy yet simple concoction is the ever-popular condiment, hot honey, blending sweetness with just the right kick.

If you're all about that sweet-and-spicy combo, you've got to check out our huge collection of hot honey recipes. We have so many fun and tasty ways to use it!

Jar of finished hot honey simple syrup with red chili flakes on counter.

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This spicy syrup is a game-changer! You can use it in just about any recipe you want, but we think it really shines in places where traditional simple syrup gets the spotlight-like specialty drinks, cocktails, mocktails, or even hot or iced teas. It's the perfect way to add a little sweet heat to your favorite sips.

Why this recipe is great

Easy: This literally take just a couple minutes with only a couple ingredients.
Fun twist: Not your average simple syrup, this one has layers of flavor for a fun new twist.
Versatile: Use in mocktails or cocktails like margaritas, old fashioneds, grapefruit.

Want something thicker for drizzling over pancakes or waffles? Try this Easy Hot Honey Syrup Recipe for more of a syrupy consistency-it's a total breakfast upgrade!

Hot Honey Simple Syrup Ingredients

This recipe only requires three ingredients! Amounts are in the recipe card below, but here are a few noteworthy tips.

Honey, habanero, and water on countertop.

Honey: Simple Grade A honey works really well in this recipe. You want the natural flavor, but don't want anything too intense.
Water: Water isn't usually listed as an ingredient, but in this case it is important to have good tasting water. In our area tap water is not tasty so we prefer to use filtered water.
Spicy pepper: Feel free to use anything from jalapeños, serranos, or habaneros. In a pinch you can even use 1 tablespoon of red hot chili flakes.
Optional: If you have a jar of Mike's Hot Honey or some homemade hot honey in the pantry, feel free to use that and skip the peppers all together.

Helpful tools

Glass Syrup Bottle Saucepan Mike's Hot Honey Mesh Strainers Drinking Glasses

How to make spicy simple syrup

Important: Be careful when cutting into hot peppers-they can surprise you with their heat! For extra safety, throw on some gloves, and whatever you do, don't touch any part of the glove that comes into contact with the cut peppers. And absolutely, do not touch your eyes-trust us, it's a mistake you'll only make once.

Pan simmering together water, honey, and sliced peppers.

Start by slicing the peppers into thick rings and tossing the ingredients into a saucepan. Want extra heat? Keep the seeds; if not, cut them out. This recipe is super easy, but here's the key-don't let the mixture boil. Just simmer it gently to bring everything together. Once it's heated, turn off the burner and let it steep.

Leaving the seeds will dial up the spice. We think 5 minutes is plenty to steep, but leave the peppers in longer if you're after a seriously fiery syrup!

Straining habanero peppers out of honey simple syrup and into a jar.

Once the steeping step is over, place a wire strainer over a glass jar and strain out the peppers.

Hint: Peppers can really bring the heat, but their spiciness depends on the type and how they're grown. Generally, jalapeños are milder than serrano peppers, and habaneros pack way more punch than either of those. If you're working with something rare like Carolina Reapers or ghost peppers wear gloves-the end result could be seriously extra spicy. Handle peppers with care.

How long does hot honey simple syrup last?

This honey simple syrup will last for at least three weeks if stored in an airtight jar in the refrigerator. This means that you can make it ahead and have it on hand for a group event or whenever the mood strikes.

How to use spicy syrup

Try adding a zip to hot tea.
A small amount will add sweetness and a touch of heat to your favorite iced tea recipe.
Try it in a cocktail or to mix it up in a alcohol-free drink.

Pouring the spicy simple syrup into a mixed drink with grapefruit juice garnished with rosemary.

What is the best honey for this recipe?

As seen in this chart, honey is graded by its color. We prefer Grade A amber for a nice honey flavor without being overly strong. Generally, speaking the darker the honey the deeper the flavor.

FAQs

Can I mix hot peppers?

Absolutely! Mixing peppers will add layers of flavor to the final product!

Can I use sugar instead of honey?

Sure, you could use plain sugar, but I'd stick with honey for the best flavor. Plain sugar might bring the sweetness, but it just doesn't have that rich, deep flavor we're going for here. Honey really makes all the difference!

Overhead view of spicy honey simple syrup in a jar.

Tips & Tricks

Wear gloves when touching the peppers to ensure that the spicy membrane doesn't get on your skin. Be sure not to touch your eyes or any open skin until your hands have been washed thoroughly.
Don't boil the mixture. Just keep to a simmer.
The longer it steeps the more spicy it will be.

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