When I think of dipping sauces, a few things come to mind: versatility, flavor, and that perfect balance of sweet and spicy. Arby’s hot honey sauce fits the bill effortlessly.
It pairs beautifully with crispy chicken tenders, fries, or even drizzled over grilled vegetables. This honey sauce is not just any condiment; it turns a simple meal into a flavor fiesta.
All right, let’s embark on this delicious journey to explore Arby’s hot honey sauce. I promise it’ll be fun and informative. Prepare yourself for what might be your new favorite sauce.

Arby’s hot honey sauce isn’t just another condiment. It’s a phenomenon. I first got a taste while enjoying a chicken sandwich at Arby’s, and honestly, it was a game-changer. The blend of sweet honey and a spicy kick was outstanding.
Believe me, this sauce deserves a spot on your kitchen table.
Making your own hot honey sauce isn’t complicated. With a few basic ingredients and some simple steps, you can create your version. I’ll share the recipe with you, along with tips, nutritional information, and more.
Let’s dive right in!
Why This Recipe Works?
Here’s why my take on Arby’s hot honey sauce stands out:
1. Balanced Flavor Profile:
This sauce brings sweet and heat together in harmony. The warmth of cayenne pepper melds perfectly with the sweetness of honey. Each bite will take your taste buds on an exciting journey.
2. Easy Ingredients:
You probably have most of the ingredients at home. Honey, cayenne pepper, and butter are common staples. Utilizing ingredients you already have makes this recipe accessible.
3. Customizable Heat Level:
Everyone has a different tolerance for spice. This recipe allows for adjustments. Want it spicier? Toss in more cayenne. Prefer a toned-down version? Reduce the pepper. This flexibility makes it perfect for gatherings.
4. Homemade Goodness:
Making your own sauce means you know what’s in it. Many store-bought sauces contain preservatives and additives. With this recipe, you have full control over the ingredients and their quality.
How Does It Taste Like?
Imagine this: you take a bite of crispy chicken, and as you chew, the sweet honey coats your palate. Then, a mild heat sneaks in, creating an explosion of flavor. This is exactly what Arby’s hot honey sauce delivers. It has a smooth texture, which makes it easy to dip or drizzle.
The combination of flavors allows for versatile pairings. Whether you use it on fried foods or vegetables, it captivates the senses. The sauce’s sweetness balances spiciness without being overwhelming.
What Sets This Recipe Apart?
Many hot honey recipes exist, but what distinguishes my version is the addition of smoked chipotle powder. This secret ingredient adds a depth of flavor that transforms the sauce from good to outstanding. It contributes a smoky undertone that enhances the overall profile.
The Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- ¾ teaspoon cayenne pepper, or more to taste
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ cup raw honey
- 1 tablespoon smoked chipotle powder
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions
Let’s get started with creating your delicious hot honey sauce!
Step 1: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, sea salt, cayenne pepper, onion powder, and smoked chipotle powder. Use a whisk to mix these dry ingredients thoroughly. This step ensures even distribution of flavors.
Step 2: Add Honey and Butter
Next, pour the raw honey and melted butter into the bowl with the dry mix. Stir well until you have a smooth consistency. The honey should blend effortlessly with the other ingredients.
Step 3: Flavor Adjustment
Taste your mixture. If you want more heat, add additional cayenne pepper. If it’s too spicy, balance it out with a touch more honey. Finding the right flavor is essential, so don’t hesitate to adjust.
Step 4: Final Touches
Lastly, stir in the fresh lemon juice. This adds brightness and balances the sauce nicely. Make sure everything is well combined.
Step 5: Serve or Store
You can serve it warm with your favorite dishes right away, or let it cool and store it in the fridge for later use. It’s that easy!
Notes
Here are some tips to make this sauce even better:
- Use Quality Honey: The type of honey affects the overall flavor. Choose a good quality raw honey for the best taste.
- Experiment with Spice: Feel free to add your favorite chili powder for a twist.
- Storage Container: Store in an airtight container to keep the sauce fresh longer.
- Heating Method: If you prefer it warm, simply reheat it in a microwave for a few seconds.
- Serving Size: This recipe yields about ¾ cup. Adjust the quantity based on the number of servings you need.

How Do You Store This Arby’s Hot Honey Sauce?
Once you’ve made your hot honey sauce, let it cool to room temperature. Transfer it into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It should last up to two weeks. Always give it a good stir before using, as it may thicken upon cooling.
Sides for Arby’s Hot Honey Sauce
What to serve with this mouthwatering sauce? Here are three fantastic suggestions:
1. Crispy Chicken Tenders:
Chicken tenders are a classic pairing. The crunch of the batter complements the smooth sauce. Dip each piece generously.
2. Sweet Potato Fries:
The sweetness of sweet potato fries and the honey sauce go hand in hand. Bake or fry your fries, then drizzle the sauce over them. It creates a delightful contrast of flavors.
3. Grilled Vegetables:
Drizzle the hot honey sauce over grilled veggies like zucchini or bell peppers. It elevates the natural sweetness of the vegetables, making them even more irresistible.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients?
Don’t have everything on hand? No problem. Here are some alternatives:
1. Honey Substitute:
If you don’t have raw honey, agave syrup works well. It’s also sweet and easy to blend.
2. Butter Alternative:
Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option. It adds a subtle coconut flavor that complements the other ingredients nicely.
3. Cayenne Pepper Alternative:
If cayenne doesn’t suit your palate, try red pepper flakes. They offer heat but with a different texture.
4. Brown Sugar Alternative:
For those avoiding brown sugar, use regular granulated sugar. You may want to add a touch of molasses to mimic the flavor profile.

Arby’s Hot Honey Sauce Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- ¾ teaspoon cayenne pepper or more to taste
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ cup raw honey
- 1 tablespoon smoked chipotle powder
- ¼ cup unsalted butter melted
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, sea salt, cayenne pepper, onion powder, and smoked chipotle powder. Use a whisk to mix these dry ingredients thoroughly. This step ensures even distribution of flavors.
- Next, pour the raw honey and melted butter into the bowl with the dry mix. Stir well until you have a smooth consistency. The honey should blend effortlessly with the other ingredients.
- Taste your mixture. If you want more heat, add additional cayenne pepper. If it’s too spicy, balance it out with a touch more honey. Finding the right flavor is essential, so don’t hesitate to adjust.
- Lastly, stir in the fresh lemon juice. This adds brightness and balances the sauce nicely. Make sure everything is well combined.
- You can serve it warm with your favorite dishes right away, or let it cool and store it in the fridge for later use. It’s that easy!
Notes
- Use Quality Honey: The type of honey affects the overall flavor. Choose a good quality raw honey for the best taste.
- Experiment with Spice: Feel free to add your favorite chili powder for a twist.
- Storage Container: Store in an airtight container to keep the sauce fresh longer.
- Heating Method: If you prefer it warm, simply reheat it in a microwave for a few seconds.
- Serving Size: This recipe yields about ¾ cup. Adjust the quantity based on the number of servings you need.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
There you have it! A simple yet delightful recipe for Arby’s hot honey sauce that you can make at home. It’s filled with flavor and versatile enough to enhance numerous dishes. Whether you’re dipping, drizzling, or slathering, this sauce is bound to impress.
Remember to experiment with the ingredients to find your perfect balance. Cooking should be fun and enjoyable, so let your taste buds lead the way.
As a food blogger and registered dietitian, I believe in creating solutions in the kitchen that bring everyone together. Try this hot honey sauce recipe, and let me know how it turns out!
Your taste buds will thank you.