Copycat Wingstop Hot Honey Rub

If you’ve ever tried Wingstop hot honey rub, you know how irresistible the combination of sweet honey and bold heat can be. This hot honey rub wingstop recipe captures the same crispy, flavorful coating that makes these wings a fan favorite. Unlike traditional sauces, this hot honey rub keeps the texture crispy while delivering a smoky, spicy-sweet punch.

This easy-to-make seasoning is perfect for wings, tenders, fries, and more. If you’ve been wondering how to make hot honey rub from Wingstop, this step-by-step guide will show you how to recreate the magic at home using simple ingredients.

What is Wingstop Hot Honey Rub?

Wingstop hot honey rub is a dry seasoning blend that combines sweet honey powder, smoky paprika, and a spicy kick for a well-balanced flavor. Unlike a sticky wing sauce, this hot honey rub provides a crispy, flavorful coating that enhances texture without making food soggy.

Many people ask, what does hot honey rub taste like? The flavor is a perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and spicy, with a bold kick that lingers just enough without overwhelming your taste buds. This honey hot rub wingstop seasoning works not only for wings but also for fries, roasted meats, and even grilled vegetables.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons honey powder
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon brown sugar
• ¼ teaspoon ground mustard (optional, adds depth)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk or spoon for blending spices
• Airtight container for storage
• Measuring spoons

How to Make Hot Honey Rub From Wingstop?

Step 1:

In a small bowl, combine honey powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, brown sugar, and ground mustard. Stir well to ensure an even blend of spices.

Step 2:

Taste the seasoning and adjust according to your preference. If you want more heat, add a little extra cayenne pepper. If you prefer a sweeter balance, increase the honey powder or brown sugar. Stir again to mix thoroughly.

Step 3:

Transfer the hot honey rub to an airtight container and store in a cool, dry place. This seasoning will stay fresh for up to three months.

Step 4 – How to Use Wingstop Hot Honey Rub on Wings

To use this Wingstop hot honey rub recipe, cook your wings using your preferred method—baking, frying, or air-frying. Once cooked, toss the hot wings with a small drizzle of melted butter or oil, then sprinkle the hot honey rub over them. Toss until fully coated, allowing the heat from the wings to bring out the flavors in the seasoning.

Some Tips for the Best Hot Honey Wings

• Always coat wings while hot so the seasoning sticks better.
• Use honey powder instead of liquid honey to maintain a crispy texture.
• For an extra smoky taste, add a pinch of smoked salt to the rub.
• If using on fries, sprinkle the seasoning immediately after cooking for the best flavor absorption.
• Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the cayenne pepper.

How to Store Leftovers

For the seasoning

Store any extra hot honey rub in an airtight spice jar in a cool, dry place for up to three months. Keeping it sealed properly prevents moisture from causing clumps.

For seasoned wings

If you have leftover wingstop honey hot rub wings, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in an air fryer or oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to crisp them back up. Avoid microwaving, as it can soften the crispy coating.

What to Eat with Hot Honey Wings?

Crispy Fries

Togarashi Fries or sweet potato fries pair perfectly with hot honey rub wings. For extra flavor, sprinkle a little of the rub on top before serving.

Cool Ranch Dip

A creamy ranch or blue cheese dip balances out the heat, adding a refreshing contrast to the honey hot rub wingstop seasoning.

FAQ

Can I use liquid honey instead of honey powder?

No, honey powder is essential to keep the seasoning dry. Liquid honey can make the coating sticky and prevent the rub from adhering properly.

What if I don’t have honey powder?

You can substitute with extra brown sugar, but the overall flavor and texture will be slightly different.

How long does homemade hot honey rub last?

Stored in an airtight container, it will stay fresh for about three months.

Can I use this rub on other meats?

Yes, this Wingstop hot honey rub recipe also works well on chicken tenders, ribs, pork chops, and even roasted vegetables. You can easily adapt this flavorful rub to enhance your favorite dishes. For those who enjoy a fusion twist, try incorporating it into your honey walnut shrimp cooking instructions for a unique spin on a classic dish. The combination of sweetness and spice will elevate the overall taste and bring a delightful surprise to your meals. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or sautéing, this versatile rub is sure to impress!

Conclusion

This hot honey rub wingstop recipe captures the perfect balance of heat and sweetness, making it a must-try for wing lovers. Whether you’re recreating Wingstop hot honey rub wings or trying it on different dishes, this seasoning delivers bold, crispy, and flavorful results every time.