Hot Honey Mustard Sauce Recipe
Hot honey mustard is where precision meets indulgence. This sauce balances floral sweetness, clean heat, and sharp mustard bite in a way that enhances food rather than overpowering it. Designed with professional ratios and refined technique, this version delivers a smooth, glossy sauce that feels intentional, modern, and restaurant-ready.
Ingredients List
- Dijon mustard
- Whole grain mustard
- Raw honey
- Hot honey
- Apple cider vinegar
- Smoked paprika
- Cayenne pepper
- Fine sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Neutral oil (optional, for extra silkiness)
Step-by-Step Instructions

Build the Mustard Base
In a mixing bowl, combine Dijon mustard and whole grain mustard. Whisk until unified, creating a balanced base with both sharpness and texture.
Layer the Sweet Heat
Add raw honey and hot honey, whisking slowly to ensure full integration without breaking the emulsion.
Brighten and Balance
Whisk in apple cider vinegar, followed by smoked paprika and cayenne. These elements sharpen the sweetness and round out the heat.
Refine the Texture
Season with salt and black pepper. For a more luxurious finish, drizzle in a small amount of neutral oil while whisking to create a glossy, velvety sauce.
Final Taste Adjustment
Taste carefully and adjust heat, sweetness, or acidity to achieve a clean, well-balanced profile.
Cook Time
Total: 8 minutes
Prep: 8 minutes
Bake: 0 minutes
Servings
Makes approximately ¾ cup
Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)
- Calories: 95
- Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Sugar: 12g
- Protein: 1g
- Sodium: 180mg
Storage Instructions
Store in an airtight glass jar or container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Bring to room temperature and stir before serving for best flavor and consistency.
Suggestions
This hot honey mustard sauce pairs exceptionally well with fried chicken, roasted vegetables, grilled sausages, and cheese boards. It also works as a glaze for salmon or pork when brushed on during the final minutes of cooking.
Seasonal Relevance
Ideal year-round, this sauce shines in cooler months alongside roasted and grilled dishes, while its brightness and heat make it equally appealing for summer barbecues and light appetizers.
Conclusion
This Hot Honey Mustard Sauce Recipe is crafted with intention,bold yet controlled, sweet yet sharp, and always balanced. It’s the kind of sauce that elevates simple food into something memorable, proving that thoughtful technique can transform the most familiar flavors.
Hot Honey Mustard Sauce Recipe
6
servings8
minutes95
kcal8
minutesThis Hot Honey Mustard Sauce is a refined balance of sweet heat and sharp mustard bite. Smooth, glossy, and deeply flavorful, it’s designed to complement everything from fried chicken and grilled meats to roasted vegetables and cheese boards.
Ingredients
¼ cup Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons whole grain mustard
2 tablespoons raw honey
1½ tablespoons hot honey
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1–2 teaspoons neutral oil (optional)
Directions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard and whole grain mustard until well combined.
- Add raw honey and hot honey, whisking slowly until smooth and cohesive.
- Whisk in apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- For a silkier texture, drizzle in neutral oil while whisking until glossy.
- Taste and adjust sweetness, heat, or acidity as needed before serving.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Let the sauce rest for 10–15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to fully develop.
- Store refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 7 days.
- This sauce also works well as a glaze or sandwich spread when slightly thickened.
FAQs
Can I make this sauce without hot honey?
Yes. Use regular honey and increase cayenne or add chili flakes to achieve the desired heat.
Is this sauce suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. Its flavor improves after a few hours, making it ideal for preparing ahead.
Can this sauce be used as a marinade?
Yes, when thinned slightly with oil or vinegar, it works well as a quick marinade for poultry or vegetables.
