This honey mustard sauce is quick to make, requiring just a few basic pantry ingredients. It’s well-balanced—sweet without being overpowering, tangy with a slight bite, and perfectly creamy. You can customize it to be more zesty, spicy, or smooth based on your preferences. It’s also healthier and more flavorful than store-bought versions.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Dijon mustard
Honey
Mayonnaise
Apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Directions
In a small mixing bowl, combine Dijon mustard, honey, and mayonnaise.
Add apple cider vinegar or lemon juice and whisk until smooth and creamy.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Adjust the sweetness or tanginess by adding more honey or vinegar as desired.
Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to use.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 1 cup of sauce. Prep time: 5 minutes Total time: 5 minutes
Variations
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Greek Yogurt Swap: Substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Whole Grain Mustard: Use a mix of Dijon and whole grain mustard for extra texture.
Garlic Twist: Add a small clove of minced garlic or garlic powder for a savory boost.
Vegan Option: Use vegan mayo and maple syrup instead of honey for a plant-based version.
Storage/Reheating
Store honey mustard sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Stir before each use, especially if it separates slightly. This sauce does not need to be reheated, and freezing is not recommended, as it may affect the texture.
FAQs
Can I use yellow mustard instead of Dijon?
Yes, yellow mustard will give a milder flavor, while Dijon adds more depth and tang.
How long does homemade honey mustard last?
It keeps well in the fridge for up to 1 week in a sealed container.
Can I make honey mustard without mayo?
Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or just mix honey and mustard for a thinner version.
Is honey mustard sauce gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all ingredients (especially the mustard) are certified gluten-free.
Can I use this as a salad dressing?
Absolutely—it makes a delicious and creamy dressing for green or grain salads.
What’s the best honey for this sauce?
Any type works, but raw or clover honey gives a nice balance of sweetness and flavor.
Is this sauce good for dipping?
Yes, it’s perfect for dipping chicken tenders, fries, pretzels, and vegetables.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, it’s great for meal prep and can be made several days in advance.
How do I thicken or thin the sauce?
To thicken, add more mayo or mustard. To thin, add a small splash of water or vinegar.
Can I use this as a marinade?
Yes, it works wonderfully as a marinade for chicken
Conclusion
Honey mustard sauce is a simple yet flavorful addition to your kitchen that you’ll want to use on everything. With its perfect blend of sweet and tangy, it’s great as a dip, dressing, or spread. Easy to whip up in minutes and endlessly customizable, it’s a must-have recipe you’ll turn to again and again.
Honey mustard sauce is a quick and flavorful condiment that combines the sweetness of honey with the tang of mustard. Creamy, balanced, and versatile, it’s perfect as a dip, dressing, spread, or marinade.
Ingredients
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
In a small mixing bowl, combine Dijon mustard, honey, and mayonnaise.
Add apple cider vinegar or lemon juice and whisk until smooth and creamy.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Adjust sweetness or tanginess by adding more honey or vinegar as needed.
Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to use.
Notes
Use yellow mustard for a milder flavor.Swap mayo with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.Add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce for heat.Great as a dip, spread, or salad dressing.
