There are condiments—and then there are game-changers. Hot honey falls into the second category. Once you try it, there’s no going back. The sticky, sweet, and fiery drizzle has become a sensation worldwide, and now Australia is catching up fast. From pizza lovers to BBQ fanatics, everyone wants a taste of this sweet heat.

But with so many options out there, you might be wondering: What’s the best hot honey in Australia right now? We did the legwork (and plenty of taste-testing) to help you discover the top contenders.

What Exactly Is Hot Honey?

For the uninitiated, hot honey is simply honey infused with chilli or hot peppers. Unlike hot sauces that pack a fiery punch, hot honey balances sweetness with warmth. The honey hits first, followed by a gentle heat that lingers but doesn’t overwhelm.

It’s this harmony of flavours that has made hot honey an international star. In Australia, it’s not just a passing trend—it’s shaping up to be a pantry staple.

Why Aussies Are Falling for Hot Honey

There are a few reasons hot honey in Australia is booming right now:

• Versatility – Drizzle it on pizza, pair it with fried chicken, mix it into cocktails, or even spoon it over ice cream.

• Flavour balance – Sweet + spicy is a pairing our tastebuds can’t resist.

• Social media buzz – Foodies on TikTok and Instagram keep sharing creative hot honey hacks.

• Local availability – Until recently, hot honey was tricky to find here. Now, Australian-made options are giving international brands serious competition.

The Taste Test: Best Hot Honey in Australia

To find the best honey in Australia has to offer in the hot honey category, we tried a range of local and international jars. Here’s what stood out.

Quinby’s Hot Honey (Australia)

When it comes to balance, Quinby’s hits the sweet spot—literally. Their hot honey is smooth, naturally sweet, and carries a chilli kick that’s warming without being overpowering. It feels crafted for versatility—whether you’re drizzling it over pizza, stirring into marinades, or serving it with cheese.

Best for: Everyday use, cheese boards, and home cooks who love experimenting.

International Imports

Some imported brands bring bold heat but often sacrifice the subtlety of flavour. They can be fun for spice lovers, but many testers found them too fiery for daily use.

Best for: Heat seekers who prefer a punchier chilli flavour.

Local Small-Batch Makers

Across Australia, small producers are experimenting with native chillies and wildflower honey. These artisan jars vary in flavour intensity but often showcase unique regional character.

Best for: Food lovers who want to explore beyond the mainstream.

Creative Ways to Use Hot Honey at Home

Once you’ve found your favourite jar, here’s how to put it to work:

On Pizza

This is the classic move. Drizzle hot honey over a pepperoni slice, and you’ll never look at pizza the same way again.

With Fried Chicken

Crispy chicken paired with sticky hot honey is a match made in comfort-food heaven.

Cheese Pairings

Soft brie, tangy blue cheese, or sharp cheddar all become more interesting with a sweet-spicy drizzle.

Roasted Veggies

Carrots, pumpkin, or brussels sprouts caramelise beautifully when finished with hot honey.

In Drinks

Add a spoonful to cocktails or mocktails for a surprising twist. Think hot honey margaritas or spicy lemon spritzers.

Why Quinby’s Stands Out in Australia

Among all the options, Quinby’s earns a special mention. Unlike some overly sweet or one-note varieties, Quinby’s hot honey has a natural depth that makes it work across cuisines. It’s crafted in Australia using high-quality honey and carefully balanced chilli infusion, which means you’re not just buying a condiment—you’re buying flavour you can trust.

For those looking to buy hot honey locally, Quinby’s makes it easy to get authentic, small-batch quality without waiting on imports.

Tips for Choosing the Best Hot Honey

When searching for the best hot honey Australia has to offer, keep these tips in mind:

Check the ingredient list – Look for natural honey and real chilli (not artificial flavourings).

Decide your heat level – Some hot honeys are mild and versatile, while others bring serious fire.

Support local – Australian-made options often mean fresher honey and sustainable beekeeping.

Think about use – Are you drizzling over pizza, or glazing BBQ meats? Choose accordingly.

FAQs About Hot Honey in Australia

What does hot honey taste like?

It starts sweet and finishes with a gentle chilli warmth—not as sharp as hot sauce, but more complex than plain honey.

Where can I buy hot honey in Australia?

You can find it online, at gourmet grocers, and from local producers like Quinby’s. Buying directly from Australian makers ensures freshness and supports local beekeepers.

Is hot honey the same as chilli honey?

Yes, both terms are often used interchangeably. They refer to honey infused with chilli, though flavour balance may vary.

Can I make hot honey at home?

Yes—by gently heating honey with chilli flakes or fresh chilli slices. But for consistency and balance, most people prefer to buy professionally crafted jars.

Why is hot honey so popular right now?

It’s versatile, Instagram-worthy, and adds a new dimension to both savoury and sweet foods—making it one of the most exciting condiments of the moment.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to discovering the best hot honey in Australia, there’s plenty to choose from. Imports deliver bold heat, artisan makers offer unique twists, but for everyday use, Quinby’s hot honey consistently comes out on top for balance, versatility, and flavour.

Whether you’re a foodie experimenting in the kitchen or just someone who wants to spice up a weeknight pizza, hot honey deserves a spot in your pantry. And the best part? It’s now easier than ever to buy hot honey locally and support Australian producers.

So, next time you’re planning a meal, skip the plain old sauces. Reach for the sweet heat of hot honey—and taste why it’s fast becoming the best honey Australia food lovers can’t stop talking about.