Description
Crisp, tangy, and slightly spicy these Hot Honey Pickled Carrots are the perfect balance of sweet heat and zingy vinegar flavor. Great for snacking, topping salads, or adding a fiery crunch to sandwiches and charcuterie boards.
Ingredients
1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into sticks or coins
3/4 cup apple cider vinegar
3/4 cup water
2 tbsp honey
1–2 tsp hot sauce or 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust for heat)
1 garlic clove, smashed
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp mustard seeds (optional)
1/4 tsp black peppercorns (optional)
Fresh dill sprigs (optional, for added flavor)
Instructions
1. Pack the carrots tightly into a clean pint-sized jar (add dill if using).
2. In a small saucepan, combine vinegar, water, honey, hot sauce (or red pepper flakes), garlic, salt, and spices.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until honey and salt dissolve.
4. Pour the hot brine over the carrots, making sure they are fully submerged.
5. Let cool to room temperature, then seal with a lid.
6. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving for best flavor.
7. Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.
Notes
For extra heat, add a few slices of fresh jalapeño to the jar.
These carrots make a great edible gift — pack in jars with festive ribbons.
Try substituting maple syrup for honey for a different sweetness.
Pairs beautifully with cheeses, grilled meats, or roasted vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 5 mins
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Quick Pickled
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 45
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: hot honey pickled carrots, spicy pickled carrots, sweet and spicy pickles, refrigerator pickles, honey vinegar carrots, homemade gifts