Hot Honey Baked Feta Recipe
Introduction
This Hot Honey Baked Feta is a simple yet irresistible appetizer, combining the creamy tang of feta with a sweet and spicy honey glaze. It’s perfect for entertaining or a quick snack that feels special.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces feta cheese
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons hot honey
- Fresh thyme, for garnish
- Pink peppercorns, optional
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Step 2: Pat the feta dry with paper towels and place it in a baking dish or small cast iron pan. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the cheese.
- Step 3: Bake the feta for 8-10 minutes until it softens slightly.
- Step 4: Remove the dish from the oven and switch the oven to broil on high. Drizzle the hot honey over the feta, then return the dish to the top rack and broil for 5-6 minutes or until the top begins to brown.
- Step 5: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh thyme and pink peppercorns, if using.
- Step 6: Serve warm with crackers or pita chips and enjoy.
Tips & Variations
- Use flavored hot honey or add a pinch of chili flakes to customize the heat level.
- Try garnishing with fresh herbs like oregano or basil for a different aroma.
- If you don’t have a broiler, bake the feta a little longer to caramelize the honey.
Storage
Store leftover baked feta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a warm oven or microwave to soften before serving again.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Feta works best due to its texture and tangy flavor, but you can try halloumi or goat cheese for a similar effect.
What is hot honey?
Hot honey is honey infused with chili peppers or spices, offering a sweet and spicy kick. You can find it at specialty stores or make your own by mixing honey with chili flakes.
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Hot Honey Baked Feta Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Hot Honey Baked Feta recipe combines creamy, salty feta cheese with a sweet and spicy hot honey glaze. Baked until warm and slightly browned, this easy appetizer is garnished with fresh thyme and optional pink peppercorns for a burst of flavor. Perfect for serving with crackers or pita chips at your next gathering.
Ingredients
Cheese
- 8 ounces feta cheese
Other Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons hot honey
- Fresh thyme, for garnish
- Pink peppercorns, optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the feta.
- Prepare the feta: Pat the feta cheese dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, then place it in a baking dish or small cast iron pan.
- Drizzle with olive oil: Pour 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil evenly over the feta to keep it moist while baking.
- Bake the feta: Bake the feta in the oven for 8-10 minutes until it is warmed through and slightly softened.
- Apply hot honey and broil: Remove the feta from the oven, set the broiler to high, then drizzle 3 tablespoons of hot honey over the cheese. Return the baking dish to the top rack of the oven and broil for 5-6 minutes until the honey caramelizes and the top begins to brown.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from oven and garnish with fresh thyme leaves and, if using, pink peppercorns. Serve warm with crackers or pita chips for dipping and enjoy!
Notes
- Be sure to pat the feta dry before baking to ensure it browns nicely under the broiler.
- If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of hot honey or use a milder honey.
- Pink peppercorns add a lovely pop of color and a gentle peppery note but can be omitted.
- Keep an eye on the feta while broiling to prevent it from burning.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: hot honey baked feta, baked feta cheese, spicy honey appetizer, Mediterranean appetizer, feta cheese recipe
