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Move over, plain pizza—there’s a new favorite getting all the attention! Hot honey pizza mixes crispy crust, melty cheese, and a tasty topping of sweet and spicy honey. The mix of honey’s sugary taste and chili’s spicy kick makes every bite exciting. No wonder pizza lovers can’t stop talking about it!
In this guide, you’ll learn everything about hot honey pizza. We’ll cover where it started, why the sweet and spicy mix works, and how to make it at home. Plus, we’ll talk about the best ingredients, top honey brands, and perfect drink pairings. Whether you love simple pizzas or bold flavors, this article will help you enjoy this delicious trend.
Let’s get started! 🍕🔥
What is Hot Honey Pizza?
The Origins of Spicy Honey Pizza
Pizza comes in many different versions, but hot honey pizza is something new and exciting. The idea started when someone drizzled spicy honey on a pizza. This smart creation is often linked to Mike Kurtz, the founder of Mike’s Hot Honey.
Kurtz got the idea while visiting Brazil, where he tried chili-infused honey. He brought the idea home and first used it at a Brooklyn pizzeria in the early 2010s. It was a big hit right away! Customers loved the sweet, spicy, and cheesy mix. Before long, pizzerias across the country were adding hot honey to their menus.
What Makes Hot Honey Drizzle Pizza Special?
Unlike classic pizza toppings, hot honey pizza plays with bold flavors. The honey’s sweetness tones down the salty cheese, while chili peppers add a slow-burning heat. This surprising mix makes every bite more exciting. The mix of sweet, spicy, and cheesy flavors is hard to resist!
Why Do Sweet and Spicy Flavors Work So Well?
Sweet and spicy flavors balance each other in a way that excites your taste buds. The honey’s natural sugar makes the spice easier to handle, so the heat is enjoyable instead of overwhelming.
Also, the mix of sticky, sweet honey and crispy, cheesy pizza makes it even better to eat. The result? A fancy upgrade to a classic dish! It’s no surprise that hot honey pizza has become really popular in restaurants and home kitchens.
The History and Rise in Popularity
Who First Used Infused Honey for Pizza?
The idea of adding honey to pizza may seem new, but it has roots in global cuisine. People have been mixing sweet and savory flavors for centuries. Middle Eastern foods often combine honey with spices, while Italian pizzas use figs and prosciutto for a tasty contrast.
However, hot honey pizza as we know it today started with Mike Kurtz. In the early 2010s, Kurtz discovered chili-infused honey while visiting Brazil. He loved the mix of heat and sweetness, so he brought the idea home. While working at Paulie Gee’s pizzeria in Brooklyn, he drizzled his homemade hot honey over a pepperoni pizza. The reaction? Customers were hooked!
How Pepperoni with Hot Honey Became a Trend
At first, hot honey pizza was a local favorite in New York. But soon, word spread. Food bloggers, chefs, and social media made it a national obsession. More pizzerias started adding hot honey drizzle to their menus, and before long, it became a staple topping.
Even major pizza chains took notice. Today, brands like Pizza Hut and Blaze Pizza offer their own versions of hot honey pizza. Meanwhile, hot honey itself has grown into a must-have ingredient, used on everything from fried chicken to biscuits.
The trend keeps growing, proving that the mix of sweet heat and cheesy goodness is here to stay!
Ingredients – What You Need to Make Hot Honey Pizza
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Hot Honey Pizza
Making hot honey pizza at home is easier than you think! You only need a few key ingredients:
- Pizza dough – Store-bought or homemade, a crispy crust works best.
- Tomato sauce – A simple, slightly tangy sauce balances the sweetness of the honey.
- Mozzarella cheese – Melty and mild, it lets the hot honey shine.
- Pepperoni or spicy sausage – The salty, smoky flavor pairs perfectly with the honey.
- Chili flakes or hot peppers – Adds an extra heat boost.
- Hot honey – The star of the show! You can buy it or make your own (more on that later).
What is Hot Honey Made Of?
Hot honey is just honey infused with chili peppers. The spice level depends on the type of chili used. Popular choices include:
- Red pepper flakes – Easy to find and mild in heat.
- Fresh chili peppers – Like jalapeños or habaneros, for extra kick.
- Cayenne powder – A simple way to adjust spice levels.
To make your own, simply heat honey and add chili. Let it infuse, then drizzle over pizza!
Best Cheese and Toppings to Pair with Hot Honey
While classic hot honey pizza features pepperoni and mozzarella, other combos work just as well. Try these tasty ideas:
- Ricotta and prosciutto – Creamy and salty, with a sweet contrast.
- Goat cheese and arugula – Tangy, fresh, and slightly peppery.
- Spicy chicken and blue cheese – Like hot wings, but on a pizza!
The beauty of hot honey pizza is its flexibility—mix and match to create your perfect slice!
How to Make Hot Honey Pizza at Home
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Hot Honey Pizza
Making hot honey pizza at home is easier than you might think! With just a few ingredients and some simple steps, you can enjoy this sweet and spicy treat anytime. Here’s how:
1. Gather Your Ingredients
You’ll need:
- Pizza dough – Store-bought or homemade, either works.
- Tomato sauce – A simple, slightly tangy sauce balances the flavors.
- Mozzarella cheese – Classic and melty, perfect for pizza.
- Pepperoni or spicy sausage – Adds a smoky, salty kick.
- Red pepper flakes – For extra spice, if desired.
- Hot honey – The key ingredient that brings it all together!
2. Prepare the Dough
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up. Roll out your dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness. A thinner crust will be crispier, while a thicker one will be chewier.
3. Assemble the Pizza
Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust. Sprinkle on shredded mozzarella, then add pepperoni or sausage. If you like more heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top.
4. Bake Until Golden
Transfer the pizza onto a baking sheet or hot pizza stone. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is golden brown.
5. Drizzle with Hot Honey
Once out of the oven, drizzle hot honey generously over the pizza. Let it sit for a minute, then slice and enjoy!
The Best Hot Honey Brands and DIY Recipes
Top Hot Honey Brands to Try
If you don’t want to make your own, there are plenty of great hot honey brands available. Some of the best include:
- Mike’s Hot Honey – The original and most popular brand.
- Milly’s Hot Honey – A bold, spicier option.
- Bushwick Kitchen Bees Knees Spicy Honey – Great for a balanced sweet-heat flavor.
- Trader Joe’s Hot Honey – A budget-friendly option with mild spice.
How to Make Your Own Hot Honey
Want to make homemade hot honey? It’s super easy! Here’s a simple recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup honey (any variety works)
- 1-2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chili
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for balance)
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, warm the honey over low heat. Do not let it boil.
- Add the red pepper flakes and stir well. Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes to infuse the flavors.
- Remove from heat and stir in the apple cider vinegar (if using).
- Strain out the chili flakes if you prefer a smooth honey.
- Let it cool, then store it in a jar.
Different Spice Levels – Mild vs. Extra Hot
If you prefer a milder hot honey, use fewer chili flakes and sweeter honey. For extra heat, try habanero peppers or ghost pepper flakes. Adjust to your liking!
Pairing Hot Honey Pizza with the Right Drinks
Hot Honey Pizza delivers a bold mix of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. The right drink can enhance these tastes, balancing the heat while complementing the honey’s sweetness. Whether you prefer wine, beer, or cocktails, there’s a perfect pairing for every slice!
Best Wines to Complement Hot Honey Pizza
Wine and pizza go hand in hand, but hot honey pizza requires special attention. Since the honey adds sweetness and the chili brings heat, the best wines should be light, fruity, and refreshing. Here are some great choices:
- Riesling – A slightly sweet Riesling balances the spice without overpowering the flavors.
- Prosecco – This sparkling wine adds a crisp, bubbly contrast to the gooey cheese.
- Zinfandel – A fruity red with hints of spice that pairs well with pepperoni.
Beers and Cocktails That Enhance the Sweet and Spicy Flavors
If wine isn’t your thing, beer and cocktails also pair beautifully with hot honey pizza. Try these options:
- IPA (India Pale Ale) – The hoppy bitterness cools down the heat from the chili.
- Wheat beer – A light, citrusy beer that won’t overpower the pizza’s flavors.
- Margarita – Tequila, lime, and a touch of sweetness make this cocktail a fantastic match.
No matter what you choose, the goal is to balance the heat, sweetness, and savoriness of hot honey pizza for the best dining experience!
Looking for more cozy meal ideas? If you love warm, comforting dishes like Hot Honey Pizza, check out our guide on What to Have for Dinner on a Cold Night for more delicious inspiration!
Regional Variations and Popular Hot Honey Pizza Styles
Hot honey pizza isn’t limited to one style. Different regions have put their own spin on this delicious trend, from classic New York slices to thick, crispy Detroit-style pies. Let’s explore how various styles embrace the magic of hot honey drizzle!
Which State is Known for Putting Honey on Pizza?
While hot honey pizza became popular in New York, West Virginia has been using honey on pizza for decades. In many local pizzerias, honey is served alongside pizza as a dipping sauce for the crust. This unique tradition adds a touch of sweetness without overpowering the savory flavors.
Hot Honey Pizza Styles: New York vs. Detroit vs. Neapolitan
Each pizza style brings something different to the table, and hot honey pizza works with all of them!
- New York-Style – Thin, foldable slices with crispy edges. The honey drizzles beautifully over classic toppings like pepperoni.
- Detroit-Style – Thick, cheesy, and crispy-edged. The caramelized crust adds a bold contrast to the sweet and spicy honey.
- Neapolitan – Light, airy, and wood-fired. The fresh mozzarella and slightly charred crust pair perfectly with hot honey drizzle.
Vegetarian and Vegan Hot Honey Pizza Options
For those who prefer plant-based options, hot honey pizza is easy to customize!
- Vegetarian toppings – Try caramelized onions, mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or ricotta cheese.
- Vegan alternatives – Use dairy-free cheese, cashew ricotta, or a drizzle of agave nectar mixed with chili flakes.
No matter the style or preference, hot honey pizza is endlessly adaptable—just tweak the toppings and enjoy! 🍕🔥
FAQs About Hot Honey Pizza
As hot honey pizza continues to grow in popularity, many people have questions about this sweet and spicy twist on a classic dish. Below are answers to some of the most common questions!
What is Hot Honey on a Pizza?
Hot honey is a spicy-sweet honey infused with chili peppers. When drizzled over pizza, it creates a perfect balance of heat and sweetness. The honey cuts through the saltiness of cheese and pepperoni while adding a bold kick that lingers. It’s an easy way to upgrade any pizza!
Who Started Putting Hot Honey on Pizza?
The credit for hot honey pizza goes to Mike Kurtz, the founder of Mike’s Hot Honey. Inspired by chili-infused honey he tried in Brazil, he first used it on a pizza at Paulie Gee’s pizzeria in Brooklyn. Customers loved it, and soon, the trend spread across the U.S. and beyond.
What is Hot Honey Made Of?
Hot honey is usually made with just two simple ingredients—honey and chili peppers. Some versions include apple cider vinegar to add a tangy balance. You can adjust the spice level by using different peppers, such as red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or habaneros.
What State Puts Honey on Pizza?
While hot honey pizza became famous in New York, West Virginia has been adding honey to pizza for years. In many pizzerias, honey is served as a dipping sauce for the crust, offering a subtle sweetness that enhances the overall taste.
Final Thoughts on Hot Honey Pizza
There’s a reason why hot honey pizza has become a must-try dish. The mix of sweet, spicy, and cheesy flavors creates an unforgettable taste experience. Whether you order it from a pizzeria or make it at home, adding hot honey drizzle is an easy way to take your pizza to the next level.
Now that you know everything about hot honey pizza, why not try making your own? Grab some dough, sauce, cheese, and hot honey—your taste buds will thank you! 🍕🔥