Honey Must-ard! A Store-Bought Showdown Plus a DIY Recipe

For those who crave both sweet and savory, honey mustard is the perfect blend. Unlike plain mustard, honey mustard offers a tasty blend – combining the sweetness of honey with the tangy kick of mustard. This harmonious mix creates a versatile condiment that can enhance a variety of dishes, from sandwiches and wraps to salads and dipping sauces. It’s no wonder honey mustard has become a staple in so many kitchens, loved for its ability to bring a delightful burst of flavor to both simple and gourmet meals.

If you’re a fan of honey mustard, you’ll also like my post about “12 Dijon Mustard Substitutes” This guide ensures you always have the perfect sauce on hand for your sandwiches and dipping needs. Whether you’re enhancing a classic recipe or creating a new dish, using the best honey mustard can make all the difference. So get ready to jump into the wonderful world of honey mustard and discover how this versatile sauce transforms your culinary creations.

Store-Bought Showdown – Listed from Good to Best

There are so many brands competing to be the best honey mustard. Each brand brings something new and unique to the table. Dijon’s tangy bite is more prominent in some than honey’s richness, while others prefer honey’s richness over mustard’s zest. The diversity in taste and texture offered by brands ensures that there’s a honey mustard sauce to suit every taste and culinary requirement. In this list, I’ve compared popular store-bought brands based on taste, texture and ingredients to help you choose the best honey mustard for your dish. I’ll share my easy and quick DIY honey mustard recipe – be sure to read till the end!

#12 Walmart’s Great Value Honey Mustard

Walmart’s Great Value honey mustard is a decent choice if you’re looking for a standard honey mustard. There’s nothing inherently wrong or bad about it; it simply lacks the flair to stand out among its competitors. Compared to other similar store-brand honey mustards, this one doesn’t quite achieve a harmonious balance.

The flavor profile leans more heavily towards honey, which can overshadow the mustard’s tangy notes. As a condiment, balance is crucial, and this one misses the mark slightly. However, it’s a good option for those who prefer a sweeter dipping sauce or are shopping on a budget, as it is the most affordable option on this list priced $1.58 per bottle.

#11 Boar’s Head Honey Mustard

The balance of flavors makes a honey mustard perfect and in Boar’s Head Honey Mustard – mustard flavor overpowers the sweetness of honey. Boar’s Head is a popular and trusted name in the sandwich business. Rightfully so, I found their sweet mustard take on the Honey mustard sauce suitable for sandwiches. You can use this honey mustard when you don’t want something too sweet like in a savory sandwich or a grilled brat.

Sweet spices, sugars, and ingredients are combined to give this honey mustard a deliciously warming flavor. Boar’s Head Honey mustard gets an extra kick from earthy, warming horseradish in this deli-style product. Every sauce tastes better when you know how to use it correctly be it as a dipping sauce or a honey mustard dressing for salads – and that’s the purpose of this article. Let’s move on to the next, after all, we are looking for the perfect taste blend and texture in honey mustard sauce.

#10 Stonewall Kitchen Sweet Honey Mustard

The next on my list is the opposite of the Boar’s Head take on honey mustard. If you could call that one spicy honey mustard then this one is overwhelmingly honey-like! Stonewall Kitchen’s Honey Mustard Sauce takes a bold approach by tipping the balance in favor of honey. This redefined honey-to-mustard ratio results in a sauce that is uniquely sweet and delicious. The rich, honey-forward profile makes it the best honey mustard for those who prefer a sweeter touch to their dishes.

Drizzling a spoonful over fried chicken brings a delightful chicken and waffles vibe, enhancing the savory flavors with a sweet twist. Or you can enjoy spicy fries with this sweetish dipping sauce. In conclusion, it can be a preferred choice for those who love their honey mustard with a pronounced honey presence. Stonewall Kitchen also offers spicy honey mustard – do try it, you will not be disappointed by its zingy taste.

#9 Ken’s Steak House Honey Mustard Dressing

Despite not being an all-arounder, Ken’s Steak House Honey Mustard Dressing still offers a pretty good honey mustard flavor. The dressing achieves a well-balanced mix of honey’s sweetness and mustard’s tanginess, making it a hit for both dressing salads and as a dipping sauce. It offers a creamy consistency that clings well to foods, enhancing everything from chicken tenders to fresh veggies.

While the flavor is good, the ingredient list includes some additives and preservatives that health-conscious consumers might prefer to avoid. Hence, it gets the 9th spot on my list. Furthermore, compared to other store-bought honey mustards, it can be slightly pricier, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious shoppers.

#8 Silver Spring Honey Mustard

Unlike most of the honey mustard brands on this list, Silver Spring has a slightly darker color, and that intensity somehow translates into its taste as well. In my opinion, there is a distinct depth of mustardy goodness that really stands out in this one. Silver Spring’s honey mustard strikes a near-perfect balance between honey and mustard, although personally, I would desire an even stronger honey flavor in my honey mustard.

There is also a slight graininess to the texture of this honey mustard, which isn’t quite whole-grain but close. It might turn some people off, but I found the textural difference to be a plus, and at the very least helped me distinguish it from other honey mustards.

#7 Maille Hot Honey Dijon Mustard

Maille Hot Honey Dijon Mustard stands out with its unmistakable sharp and bold Dijon tang, coupled with a delightful sweetness. The depth of flavor is impressive, making it a strong contender among spicy honey mustards. However, despite its strengths, it doesn’t quite deliver on the heat promised by its name.

The mustard has a light spice that permeates its creamy texture, adding a subtle warmth rather than a fiery kick. While this gentler heat may not satisfy those seeking a more intense spice, it still offers a lovely balance for those who prefer a milder touch. If you’re looking for an exquisite honey mustard with a gentle heat go for Maille Hot Honey Mustard. However, for true heat lovers, it might fall just a bit short.

#6 Guy Fieri’s Flavortown Honey Mustard Sauce

Guy Fieri’s Flavortown line of sauces features a honey mustard. While it’s not unexpected for the hugely popular celebrity chef to venture into this territory, I was pleasantly surprised by the deliciousness of this Flavortown honey mustard. This honey mustard excels in achieving a better balance of creaminess compared to its competitor.

While being quite creamy, it still retains a good amount of tanginess from the mustard and sweetness from the honey. It’s indulgent, versatile, and absolutely delightful – this honey mustard truly invites you to experience Flavortown. It’s a perfect match for your nuggets but that doesn’t mean it cannot be a great honey mustard dressing for your salads.

#5 Sweet Baby Ray’s Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce

Sweet Baby Ray’s is renowned as one of the most popular barbecue sauce brands in the country, and it appears that Ray also excels at creating a delectable honey mustard. This honey mustard is exceptionally creamy and rich, having some resemblance to the Flavortown version, yet somehow managing to be slightly more delicious.

There’s really nothing negative to say about this honey mustard, and it fulfills all the requirements of a great condiment. It has the ideal texture for dipping, a pleasant tanginess, and offers sweetness without being overwhelming. This one maintains a perfect harmony of honey-mustard flavor from beginning to end. Use it as a dipping sauce to enjoy chicken nuggets and chicken tenders.

#4 French’s Honey Mustard

French’s Honey Mustard offers a classic take on this beloved condiment, presenting a robust mustard flavor with a pleasant hint of sweetness. This brown honey mustard has a solid, mustardy base that stands out, making it a versatile addition to various dishes. The texture is smooth and creamy, making it easy to spread or drizzle over your favorite foods.

One of the standout features of French’s Honey Mustard is its suitability for classic American fare, particularly hot dogs. While it might sound unconventional, this mustard’s balanced flavor profile complements the savory notes of a hot dog perfectly. The slight sweetness enhances the overall taste without overpowering the traditional mustard zing.

#3 Beaver Sweet Honey Mustard

Beaver’s sweet version contains everything you desire in honey mustard. It features an ideal thickness and offers a pronounced Dijon flavor complemented by a rich honeyed sweetness. This honey mustard is suitable for any occasion. Whether you’re dressed formally and indulging in buttermilk fried chicken or keeping it casual with some fast food nuggets, Beaver’s creation is sure to impress.

It’s a robust, flavorful honey mustard, and considering the exceptional flavor it offers, the price point is truly unbeatable. Additionally, the versatility of this honey mustard makes it a must-have condiment for a wide range of dishes and dining experiences.

#2 Maille Honey Dijon Mustard

Making it to the best honey mustard list number second is the delicious Maille Honey Dijon Mustard. One of the standout features of Maille Honey Dijon Mustard is its well-balanced flavor profile. The Dijon mustard provides a robust, tangy base that is beautifully complemented by the smooth, sweet notes of honey. This combination results in a mustard that is both bold and nuanced, offering layers of flavor with every bite.

The texture is another highlight. Maille Honey Dijon Mustard has a creamy consistency that spreads effortlessly, making it an ideal choice for sandwiches, wraps, and burgers. It also works wonderfully as a dip for pretzels or as a glaze for roasted vegetables and meats. What truly sets Maille Honey Dijon Mustard apart is its versatility. The quality of the ingredients is evident in every jar, reflecting Maille’s commitment to excellence and tradition.

#1 Inglehoffer Honey Mustard

Our hunt for best store bought honey mustard ends on the Inglehoffer Honey Mustard. Do you wish to experience all the flavor profiles – sweet, tangy, sharp, and acidic – of a honey mustard in one bottle? Then go for Inglehoffer Honey Mustard. It has a remarkable depth of flavor, despite being a simple honey mustard. Inglehoffer honey mustard stands out as the top choice on my list, because I could envision using this honey mustard with a wide variety of foods.

One aspect that stood out to me about this honey mustard, which was lacking in many others, was its boldly assertive mustard flavor. It makes for an excellent dipping sauce, salad dressing or pasting on sandwiches. The spiciness lingers on the palate, yet it never becomes overwhelming due to the balancing sweetness of the honey.

Tips for Choosing the Best Honey Mustard

When choosing the best honey mustard, it’s essential to consider a few key factors to ensure you’re getting a high-quality product that suits your taste and dietary preferences.

• Check the ingredient list for high-quality honey and mustard. Opting for a honey mustard that lists high-quality, natural ingredients such as real honey and robust mustard can greatly impact the flavor and overall quality of the sauce.
• Consider choosing organic honey mustard for a more natural option. Organic honey mustard is made from ingredients that are free from synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, offering a more wholesome and environmentally friendly choice.
• Look for labels that indicate the use of pure maple syrup or apple cider vinegar. These natural sweeteners and flavorings can enhance the complexity of the honey mustard, adding depth and richness to its taste profile.
• Avoid honey mustards with added preservatives or artificial flavorings. Opt for products that are free from unnecessary additives to ensure a more authentic and pure flavor.

Alternatively you can make the recipe from “To Serve Men”:

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Hot Honey Mustard, Is It Different From Regular Honey Mustard?

Hot honey mustard combines the sweetness of honey, the tang of mustard, and a spicy kick, usually from added chili peppers or hot sauce. This variant is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat with their condiments. It differs from regular honey mustard, which typically balances only the sweet and tangy elements without the added spice. Hot honey mustard can add a bold flavor to sandwiches, marinades, and dips, bringing an extra layer of excitement to your dishes.

How Can I Adjust the Sweetness in Homemade Honey Mustard Salad Dressing?

To adjust the sweetness in homemade honey mustard salad dressing, you can easily modify the ratio of honey to mustard. If you find the dressing too sweet, simply increase the amount of mustard to balance out the sweetness. Conversely, if you prefer a sweeter flavor, add more honey until you achieve the desired level of sweetness. It’s important to make adjustments gradually, tasting the dressing as you go to reach the perfect balance for your palate.

Can I Make Honey Mustard Without Mayonnaise?

Yes, you can make honey mustard without mayonnaise. Traditional honey mustard typically consists of honey and mustard as its primary ingredients, and mayonnaise is not a necessary component. By blending together honey, mustard, and a few additional seasonings such as vinegar, salt, and pepper, you can create a delicious honey mustard sauce or dressing without the need for mayonnaise. This simple and versatile condiment can be tailored to suit various tastes and dietary preferences.

How To Store Homemade Honey Mustard Properly?

To store honey mustard properly, it’s essential to keep it in an airtight container, such as a glass jar or a plastic container with a tight-fitting lid, to maintain its freshness and prevent contamination. Store the honey mustard in the refrigerator to prolong its shelf life and preserve its flavor. Ensure that the container is sealed tightly after each use to prevent air and moisture from affecting the quality of the honey mustard.

What Is the Simplest Honey Mustard Recipe?

The simplest honey mustard recipe requires just three basic ingredients: Dijon mustard, honey, and mayonnaise. To make it, combine equal parts Dijon mustard and honey in a bowl—typically 1/4 cup each – then add 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise for creaminess. Whisk the ingredients together until smooth and well-blended. This basic recipe delivers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors with a creamy texture, making it ideal for use as a dipping sauce, salad dressing, or sandwich spread. This simple honey mustard recipe is a go-to choice for a quick and easy condiment.

Conclusion

To sum it up, honey mustard, with its delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors, proves to be a versatile condiment. Whether you’re drizzling it over grilled chicken, using honey mustard dressing, or enjoying it as a dipping sauce, the right honey mustard sauce can transform your meals with its unique taste.

Choosing the best honey mustard made from natural ingredients is essential for achieving the best flavor. Look for brands that balance the sweetness of honey with the tanginess of mustard to get a truly harmonious condiment. Among the top store-bought options, Maille Honey Dijon Mustard and Inglehoffer Honey Mustard stand out for the sophisticated blend of flavors, while Stonewall Kitchen offers a honey-forward version that’s perfect for those who love a sweeter touch.

For those who enjoy a hands-on approach, making your own honey mustard at home is a rewarding experience. My quick DIY recipe allows you to adjust the sweetness and tanginess to your liking, ensuring a perfect match for your chicken tenders or chicken nuggets. Do share your experience with any of the store-bought honey mustard sauce varieties in the comments section. I love hearing back from my lovely readers!