18 Sweet Honey Recipes Perfect for Desserts

Got a sweet tooth and a jar of honey begging to be used? You’re in luck! From gooey cakes to drizzled delights, these 18 irresistible honey desserts are here to satisfy every craving. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or treating yourself, these recipes are as easy as they are delicious. Ready to make your desserts buzz-worthy? Let’s dive in—your next favorite treat is waiting!

Honey Glazed Carrots

These honey-glazed carrots are the perfect balance of sweet and savory, with a glossy finish that makes them as pretty as they are tasty.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp unsalted butter. Add the carrots and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes until slightly softened.
2. Stir in 2 tbsp honey, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for another 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the carrots are tender and the glaze thickens and coats them evenly.
3. Remove from heat and sprinkle with 1 tbsp fresh parsley before serving.

The honey caramelizes lightly in the pan, giving these carrots a delicate sweetness with just the right amount of buttery richness. They’re a simple side that feels fancy enough for company!

Tip: For extra depth, add a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of orange juice with the honey.

Honey Garlic Shrimp

This Honey Garlic Shrimp is a quick, sticky-sweet weeknight hero—ready in 15 minutes but fancy enough to impress guests.

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tbsp honey
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)

1. In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp honey, 3 cloves minced garlic, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp lemon juice, and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (if using). Set aside.
2. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add shrimp and cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink but not fully cooked through.
3. Pour the honey-garlic sauce over the shrimp. Simmer 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and coats the shrimp.
4. Garnish with 1 tbsp chopped parsley and serve immediately.

The magic here? The sauce reduces to a glossy, caramel-like glaze that clings perfectly to each bite. Serve over rice to soak up every drop.

Tip: For extra depth, add a splash of rice vinegar to the sauce—it balances the sweetness!

Honey Lemon Chicken

This sweet-tangy chicken dish is a weeknight hero—ready in under 30 minutes but packed with bright, sticky flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup honey, 3 tbsp lemon juice, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 tsp ginger, and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
2. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add chicken and cook 5–6 minutes per side until browned.
3. Pour sauce over chicken, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer 8–10 minutes, flipping once, until glaze thickens and chicken reaches 165°F internally.
4. Sprinkle with 1 tbsp parsley before serving.

The magic here? The sauce reduces to a glossy, caramelized coating that clings perfectly to every bite. Serve over rice to soak up every drop.

Tip: For extra zing, add a pinch of lemon zest to the sauce just before serving.

Honey Roasted Almonds

These honey roasted almonds are the perfect balance of sweet and crunchy—ideal for snacking, gifting, or sprinkling over salads for a gourmet touch.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups raw almonds
• 3 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp melted butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix almonds with 3 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp melted butter, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1/2 tsp sea salt, and 1/4 tsp cinnamon until evenly coated.
3. Spread almonds in a single layer on the baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes, stirring halfway, until golden and fragrant.
4. Let cool completely (about 30 minutes)—the almonds will crisp up as they sit.

The honey caramelizes into a delicate glaze, giving these almonds an irresistible shine and a satisfying crunch. They’re dangerously snackable!

Tip: For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne with the cinnamon before roasting.

Honey Mustard Salad Dressing

This creamy-sweet honey mustard dressing is a crowd-pleaser—perfect for drizzling over crisp greens or using as a dipping sauce for chicken tenders.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.
2. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously to emulsify the dressing.
3. Add the garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, whisking until fully combined.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—add another pinch of salt for balance or a splash of vinegar for tang.

The magic here is in the emulsion: whisking the oil slowly creates a luxuriously thick texture that clings to every leaf. It’s a dressing that doubles as a glaze or dip, thanks to its bold, balanced flavor.

Tip: For a lighter version, swap half the olive oil with cold water and shake in a jar instead of whisking.

Honey Butter Biscuits

These honey butter biscuits are the perfect blend of sweet and savory, with a flaky, melt-in-your-mouth texture that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 3/4 cup whole milk
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp melted butter (for brushing)

1. Preheat oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tbsp baking powder, and 1/2 tsp salt.
3. Cut in 1/4 cup cold butter with a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in 3/4 cup whole milk and 2 tbsp honey until just combined (don’t overmix).
5. Turn dough onto a floured surface, gently pat into a 1-inch-thick rectangle, and cut into 8 squares.
6. Place biscuits on the baking sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes until golden.
7. Brush warm biscuits with 2 tbsp melted butter and serve immediately.

The honey adds a subtle sweetness that pairs perfectly with the rich, buttery layers—these biscuits practically crumble apart at the touch!

Tip: For extra flakiness, freeze the cubed butter for 10 minutes before cutting it into the flour.

Honey Lavender Shortbread Cookies

These honey lavender shortbread cookies are buttery, floral, and just sweet enough—a delicate treat that feels fancy without fuss.

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tsp culinary lavender buds
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and 1/4 cup honey until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
2. Crush 2 tsp lavender buds lightly with your fingers to release their aroma, then stir into the butter mixture.
3. Gradually mix in the flour and 1/2 tsp salt until just combined—don’t overwork the dough.
4. Shape the dough into a log about 2 inches in diameter, wrap in plastic, and chill for 1 hour (or up to 2 days).
5. Preheat oven to 325°F. Slice the log into 1/4-inch rounds and place on parchment-lined baking sheets.
6. Bake for 12–14 minutes until the edges are barely golden. Let cool on the sheets for 5 minutes before transferring.

The lavender’s floral notes and honey’s warmth make these cookies taste like a sunny afternoon in every bite.

Tip: For extra fragrance, rub the lavender between your palms before adding it to the dough.

Honey Baked Ham

This sweet and savory honey baked ham is a showstopper for holidays or Sunday dinners—glazed to sticky perfection with just the right balance of tang and sweetness.

Ingredients:

• 1 (8–10 lb) fully cooked bone-in ham
• 1 cup honey
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp ground cloves

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Place ham cut-side down in a roasting pan and tent loosely with foil. Bake for 1 hour 30 minutes (about 15 minutes per pound).
2. Meanwhile, whisk together 1 cup honey, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup Dijon mustard, 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar, and 1 tsp ground cloves in a saucepan over medium heat. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. Uncover ham and brush half the glaze evenly over the surface. Return to oven, uncovered, for 20 minutes. Brush with remaining glaze and bake another 10–15 minutes until caramelized and glossy.
4. Let rest 15 minutes before slicing. The glaze forms a crackly, lacquered crust that locks in the ham’s juicy tenderness—perfect for pairing with fluffy biscuits or roasted veggies.

Tip: Score the ham fat in a diamond pattern before baking to help the glaze seep into every nook.

Honey Cinnamon Rolls

These honey cinnamon rolls are like a warm hug in pastry form—sticky, sweet, and just a little bit spiced.

• 1 cup whole milk, warmed to 110°F
• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup softened butter (for filling)
• 1/4 cup honey (for glaze)

1. In a bowl, whisk together warmed milk, yeast, and 1/4 cup honey. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Stir in egg and melted butter.
2. Add flour and salt, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 5 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled.
3. Roll dough into a 12×16-inch rectangle. Spread softened butter evenly over the surface, then sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon. Tightly roll into a log and slice into 12 even pieces.
4. Arrange rolls in a greased 9×13-inch pan. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F.
5. Bake for 25 minutes until golden. Warm 1/4 cup honey and drizzle over rolls while still hot.

The double hit of honey—in the dough and the glaze—gives these rolls a caramelized depth that sugar alone can’t match. Tip: For extra-gooey rolls, let them soak up the honey glaze for 10 minutes before serving.

Honey Glazed Salmon

This sweet and savory salmon comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something impressive but effortless.

Ingredients:

• 4 (6-oz) salmon fillets, skin-on or skinless
• 3 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp honey, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet and brush generously with the glaze.
4. Bake for 12–15 minutes, basting once halfway, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the glaze is sticky and caramelized.
5. Garnish with 1 tbsp chopped parsley before serving.

The magic here is the glaze—it transforms into a glossy, restaurant-worthy coating that clings to every bite. Serve with roasted veggies or rice to soak up the extra sauce.

Tip: For extra char, broil the salmon for the last 1–2 minutes—just keep a close eye to prevent burning!

Honey Pecan Pie

This honey pecan pie is a sweet, nutty twist on the classic—perfect for when you want a dessert that feels both familiar and special.

Ingredients:

• 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust, chilled
• 1 cup honey
• 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 cups pecan halves

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Place the pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish and crimp the edges decoratively.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup honey, 3/4 cup brown sugar, and 1/2 cup melted butter until smooth. Add 3 eggs, 1 tsp vanilla, and 1/2 tsp salt, whisking until fully combined.
3. Arrange 2 cups pecans evenly over the bottom of the pie crust, then pour the honey mixture over them.
4. Bake for 45–50 minutes, until the filling is set (it should jiggle slightly in the center but not ripple). Cool completely before slicing.

The honey adds a floral depth that balances the rich pecans, while the buttery crust keeps every bite indulgent. Serve slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate treat.

Tip: For extra toasty flavor, lightly toast the pecans in a dry skillet before adding them to the pie.

Honey Yogurt Parfait

This honey yogurt parfait is a dreamy, layered treat that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying—perfect for breakfast or a light dessert.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups plain Greek yogurt (whole or 2%)
• 2 tbsp honey, plus extra for drizzling
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup granola (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup fresh mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, 2 tbsp honey, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. In two serving glasses or bowls, layer half the granola, followed by half the yogurt mixture, and half the berries. Repeat the layers.
3. Drizzle the top with an extra swirl of honey and serve immediately.

The contrast of creamy yogurt, crunchy granola, and juicy berries makes every bite a little celebration of textures.

Tip: For a make-ahead version, assemble the granola and berries but keep the yogurt mixture separate until serving to avoid sogginess.

Honey Soy Glazed Tofu

This Honey Soy Glazed Tofu is a weeknight hero—sticky, savory-sweet, and ready in under 30 minutes. It’s the kind of dish that’ll make even tofu skeptics ask for seconds.

• 1 (14-oz) block extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp neutral oil (like avocado or vegetable)
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
• 2 sliced green onions (for garnish)

1. Crisp the tofu: Toss tofu cubes with 2 tbsp cornstarch until evenly coated. Heat 2 tbsp neutral oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high. Add tofu and cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden and crisp on all sides. Transfer to a plate.
2. Make the glaze: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add 3 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp sesame oil, 2 cloves minced garlic, and 1 tsp grated ginger. Simmer for 1–2 minutes, stirring, until slightly thickened.
3. Glaze the tofu: Return tofu to the skillet and toss gently to coat. Cook for another 2 minutes, letting the glaze cling to the tofu.
4. Serve: Garnish with 1 tbsp sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve over rice or noodles.

The magic here? The cornstarch creates a delicate crunch that soaks up the glossy glaze without turning soggy. It’s like caramel-coated tofu candy—but dinner.

Tip: For extra caramelization, let the tofu sit undisturbed for 2 minutes after adding it back to the glaze.

Honey Ginger Tea

This soothing honey ginger tea is like a warm hug in a mug—perfect for chilly mornings or when you need a little immune boost.

Ingredients:

• 1 (2-inch) piece fresh ginger, thinly sliced (no need to peel)
• 2 cups water
• 1 tbsp honey (or more to taste)
• 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 cinnamon stick (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, combine the ginger and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 10 minutes (the liquid should reduce slightly and turn pale gold).
2. Remove from heat and stir in 1 tbsp honey and 1 tsp lemon juice until dissolved. For extra warmth, add the cinnamon stick and let steep for 2 more minutes.
3. Strain into a mug, pressing the ginger gently to extract all the spicy goodness. Sip immediately!

The magic here is in the fresh ginger’s gentle heat, which pairs perfectly with the floral sweetness of honey—no bland powdered substitutes needed.

Tip: For a stronger ginger kick, lightly crush the slices with the back of a knife before simmering.

Honey Drizzled Pancakes

Fluffy, golden pancakes get a sweet upgrade with a generous drizzle of honey—perfect for lazy weekend mornings when you want breakfast to feel a little extra special.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for cooking)
• 1/4 cup honey, warmed

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 tbsp granulated sugar, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, and 1/4 tsp salt.
2. In another bowl, whisk the 3/4 cup buttermilk, 1 large egg, and 2 tbsp melted butter until smooth. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir until just combined (small lumps are okay).
3. Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter. Pour 1/4 cup batter per pancake and cook until bubbles form on the surface and edges look set, about 2–3 minutes. Flip and cook for another 1–2 minutes until golden.
4. Stack pancakes on plates and drizzle generously with 1/4 cup warmed honey.

The honey soaks into the pancakes just enough to add moisture without making them soggy—ideal for those who love a sticky-sweet bite without the mess of syrup.

Tip: Warm the honey for 10 seconds in the microwave to make it extra pourable.

Honey Rosemary Roasted Potatoes

These golden, crispy potatoes are glazed with honey and fragrant rosemary—a sweet-savory side that steals the show at any dinner table.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs baby potatoes, halved
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Toss potatoes with 3 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp garlic powder until evenly coated. Arrange cut-side down on the baking sheet.
3. Roast for 25 minutes, then flip potatoes. Drizzle with 2 tbsp honey and sprinkle with 1 tbsp rosemary. Return to oven for 10–12 minutes until caramelized and fork-tender.

The honey forms a delicate, sticky glaze while the rosemary infuses every bite with earthy warmth—no fancy techniques required for this crowd-pleaser.

Tip: For extra crispiness, space potatoes evenly on the baking sheet (no overcrowding!).

Honey Granola Bars

Honey Granola Bars

These chewy, honey-sweetened granola bars are packed with oats and nuts for a wholesome snack you can grab on the go.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1/2 cup chopped almonds
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two sides.
2. Spread oats, almonds, and pecans on a rimmed baking sheet. Toast for 10 minutes, stirring halfway, until fragrant and lightly golden.
3. In a small saucepan over medium heat, warm honey, peanut butter, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until smooth and just bubbling, about 3 minutes.
4. Transfer toasted oat mixture to a large bowl. Pour warm honey mixture over and stir until fully coated.
5. Press mixture firmly into the prepared pan. Bake for 20 minutes until edges are golden. Let cool completely in pan before slicing into bars.

The secret to these bars’ perfect chew? A double dose of honey—both for binding and a subtle floral sweetness that balances the nutty crunch.

Tip: For clean cuts, chill the bars for 30 minutes before slicing with a sharp knife.

Honey BBQ Chicken Wings

These sticky-sweet wings are a crowd-pleaser, with just the right balance of smoky BBQ and golden honey.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken wings (split into drumettes and flats)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/3 cup BBQ sauce
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
2. Toss chicken wings with 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until evenly coated. Arrange on the wire rack.
3. Bake for 40 minutes, flipping halfway, until skin is crispy and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4. Meanwhile, whisk together 1/4 cup honey, 1/3 cup BBQ sauce, and 2 tbsp soy sauce in a small saucepan. Simmer over low heat for 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Toss baked wings in the sauce until fully glazed. Return to the rack and broil for 2–3 minutes until caramelized.

The double-hit of baking then broiling gives these wings an irresistible crunch under that glossy glaze.

Tip: For extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne to the sauce—just enough to tingle!

Conclusion

With these 18 sweet honey recipes, you’re all set to whip up delicious desserts that’ll impress everyone! Whether you’re craving cookies, cakes, or something in between, honey adds the perfect touch of natural sweetness. Give these recipes a try, and let us know which one’s your favorite in the comments. Loved this roundup? Share the sweetness—pin it on Pinterest for later!