Cranberries & Hot Honey Recipe

If you are on the hunt for a dish that’s bursting with flavor and has the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory, you’ve just found it. This Crispy Gnocchi with Fresh Mozzarella, Cranberries & Hot Honey is an absolute showstopper that combines pillowy gnocchi, creamy mozzarella, tart cranberries, and a tantalizing drizzle of spicy-sweet hot honey. Every bite is a celebration of textures and tastes, from the crispy roasted edges of the gnocchi to the jammy heat of the honey infused with chili flakes. It’s a dish that feels both comforting and adventurous, perfect for sharing with friends or treating yourself to an elevated vegetarian meal. Trust me, once you try Cranberries & Hot Honey together in this recipe, it will quickly become a new favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for this dish is wonderfully simple yet crucial for hitting all the right notes. Each component plays a unique role: the gnocchi gives it that fluffy base, the fresh mozzarella adds creaminess, dried cranberries bring a hint of tartness and chew, and of course, the hot honey ties everything together with its warm sweetness and a spicy kick.

• 1 lb shelf-stable gnocchi: The foundation of the dish, these little pillows turn delightfully crispy when roasted.
• 3 tbsp olive oil: Helps crisp the gnocchi in the oven while imparting a subtle richness.
• ½ tsp smoked paprika: Adds a smoky depth that complements the heat of the honey.
• ½ tsp garlic powder: Enhances savory flavor without overpowering the dish.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste: Simply essential seasonings to lift all the flavors.
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella, torn into pieces: Melts slightly for luscious creaminess and mild tang.
• ½ cup dried cranberries: Offers a pop of sweetness and chewy texture to contrast the gnocchi.
• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves: Bright, aromatic, and fresh, this herb rounds out the dish beautifully.
• ¼ cup honey: The star of the hot honey drizzle, bringing sweetness and viscosity.
• ½–1 tsp chili flakes: Adjust this to your preferred heat level to make the hot honey sing.

How to Make Cranberries & Hot Honey

Step 1: Crisp the Gnocchi

Start by preheating your oven to 220°C (425°F). Toss the gnocchi in olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper making sure each piece is well coated. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This helps the gnocchi crisp nicely instead of sticking together.

Step 2: Roast to Golden Perfection

Roast the gnocchi for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring once halfway through. You want them golden brown and crispy on the outside while maintaining a soft interior. This roasting step transforms simple gnocchi into something truly irresistible.

Step 3: Prepare the Hot Honey

While your gnocchi are getting perfectly crispy, place the honey and chili flakes in a small saucepan over low heat. Warm gently for 2 to 3 minutes to infuse the honey with a gentle spicy kick, making your hot honey ready to drizzle over the dish.

Step 4: Assemble Cranberries & Hot Honey

Once your gnocchi is roasted, transfer it to a serving dish. Scatter torn fresh mozzarella and dried cranberries evenly over the top so the heat from the gnocchi can soften the cheese just enough. This creates a delicious mix of warm, creamy, and tangy bites.

Step 5: Finish & Serve

Generously drizzle the hot honey over the assembled gnocchi, cranberries, and mozzarella. Finally, sprinkle fresh basil leaves for that aromatic, vibrant finish. Serve immediately while still warm for the best experience.

How to Serve Cranberries & Hot Honey

Garnishes

Fresh basil is an absolute must—it adds a burst of color and a refreshing herbal note that complements the richness and heat. You can also sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt just before serving to enhance the savory-sweet contrast even more.

Side Dishes

This dish shines as a vegetarian main, but if you want to round out the meal, think crisp green salads with vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts. A light, citrusy side can balance the sweetness and spice beautifully without overpowering it.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the crispy gnocchi in small individual cast iron skillets or rustic bowls. Drizzle extra hot honey tableside so guests can add as much heat as they like. You can also turn this into a shareable platter by adding toasted nuts or seeds for extra crunch and visual appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The crispy texture will soften but reheated correctly, you can bring back some crunch. Keep the hot honey separate if possible to maintain its flavor and texture.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the roasted gnocchi before assembly. Place it in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating and adding the toppings and hot honey.

Reheating

To reheat, spread the gnocchi on a baking sheet and bake at 200°C (400°F) for about 8–10 minutes to regain crispiness. Add fresh mozzarella, cranberries, basil, and hot honey afterward so they don’t lose their texture and flavor during reheating.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Fresh cranberries will be much tarter and juicier, which will change the texture and overall balance of the dish. If you prefer fresh, consider sautéing them lightly with some sugar first to mellow the tartness.

Is there a substitute for fresh mozzarella?

Absolutely! Burrata or a mild, soft goat cheese can work wonderfully if you want a richer or tangier flavor. Just keep the creamy texture to complement the crispy gnocchi.

How spicy does Cranberries & Hot Honey get?

The heat level depends on how much chili flakes you add to the honey. The recipe’s suggested ½ to 1 teaspoon offers a gentle warmth that enhances the sweetness without overwhelming it, but adjust to your liking.

Can I make the hot honey ahead of time?

Yes, hot honey can be made ahead and stored in a sealed jar at room temperature. Give it a little stir before drizzling to redistribute the chili flakes evenly.

Is this dish suitable for vegans?

The dish as written includes fresh mozzarella, which is not vegan. You can swap that for a plant-based cheese alternative to keep it vegan-friendly while still enjoying the Cranberries & Hot Honey experience.

Final Thoughts

This Cranberries & Hot Honey recipe is a delightful symphony of flavors and textures that’s perfect whenever you want to wow your guests or treat yourself to something special. The unique pairing of tart cranberries with the warm sweetness and heat of hot honey elevates what could be a simple gnocchi dish into a memorable meal. Give it a try—you’ll fall in love with every crispy, gooey, spicy-sweet bite.