Burrata Bomb with Spicy Hot Honey, Toasted Walnuts & Olive Oil Drizzle

This dish is pure indulgence in minutes: the cool, milky burrata contrasts beautifully with the warm crunch of toasted walnuts, while the hot honey adds a sweet-spicy kick that ties everything together. It’s simple, stunning on the plate, and impossible to stop eating. Serve it as a show-stopping starter, shareable appetizer, or light lunch with a glass of crisp white wine or rosé.

Servings: 2–3 (as an appetizer) or 1–2 (as a main)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes (toasting only)
Total Time: About 15 minutes
Approximate Nutrition per Serving (for 3): ~400–450 kcal, ~14 g protein, ~18 g carbs, ~34 g fat

Ingredients

For the burrata centerpiece:

• 8 oz (225 g) fresh burrata cheese (one large ball or two smaller ones)
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil (high-quality for drizzling)
• Pinch of flaky sea salt (Maldon or fleur de sel works best)
• Freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)

For the toasted walnut crunch:

• ⅓ cup (about 35–40 g) raw walnuts, roughly chopped
• Optional: A tiny pinch of smoked paprika or chili powder for extra depth

For the hot honey drizzle:

• 2 tablespoons honey (raw or floral varieties shine here)
• ¼–½ teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust for heat level—start low and taste)
• Optional: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice (½ tsp) for brightness

For serving:

• 1 small baguette, ciabatta, or sourdough, sliced into ½-inch thick pieces and toasted
• Fresh thyme leaves, basil chiffonade, or microgreens (for garnish and aroma)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Toast the walnuts
   Heat a dry skillet over medium heat (no oil needed). Add the chopped walnuts and toast 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they turn fragrant, lightly golden, and release their oils. Watch closely—they burn quickly!
   Transfer immediately to a plate or bowl to stop cooking. Let cool slightly. (Optional: Toss with a tiny pinch of smoked paprika while warm for subtle smokiness.)
2. Infuse the hot honey
   In a small microwave-safe bowl or ramekin, combine honey and red chili flakes. Microwave 10–15 seconds to warm slightly (or warm gently in a small saucepan), then stir well. Let sit 2–3 minutes so the heat infuses. Taste and adjust chili flakes if you want more fire. (Pro tip: Make extra—this hot honey is addictive on everything!)
3. Prep the burrata
   Place the burrata in the center of a wide, shallow serving plate or wooden board.
   Gently score the top with a small knife or spoon—just enough to let some of the creamy interior start to ooze out when pressed. (Don’t cut all the way through—keep it mostly whole for that dramatic “bomb” moment.)
4. Assemble & drizzle
   Scatter the toasted walnuts generously over and around the burrata.
   Drizzle with the olive oil, letting it pool slightly. Spoon or drizzle the hot honey over the top and sides, allowing it to drip down the sides.
   Finish with a generous pinch of flaky sea salt and several grinds of fresh black pepper.
5. Garnish & serve immediately
   Sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves, torn basil, or microgreens for color and fragrance.
   Surround the burrata with warm toasted baguette slices or crostini. Serve right away so guests can tear into the burrata and scoop up the creamy, crunchy, spicy-sweet goodness.

Pro Tips for Perfection

• Burrata temperature — Let it sit at room temperature 15–20 minutes before serving—the creaminess is best when it’s not fridge-cold.
• Hot honey control — Start with ¼ tsp chili flakes; you can always add more at the table.
• Make-ahead elements — Toast walnuts and infuse honey earlier in the day; assemble just before serving.
• Bread upgrade — Brush baguette slices with olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt before toasting for extra crunch.

Delicious Variations

• Nut swap — Use toasted pistachios, almonds, or hazelnuts for different crunch and flavor.
• Herb twist — Add fresh oregano, chives, or lemon zest for brightness.
• Sweet-spicy balance — Stir a splash of balsamic glaze into the hot honey for tangy depth.
• Vegan version — Use plant-based burrata alternative and vegan cheese or skip cheese entirely.

This burrata bomb with hot honey and walnut crunch is creamy, crunchy, sweet, spicy, and ridiculously addictive—it’s the kind of dish that disappears in seconds. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself! Try it and let me know your favorite way to scoop it up in the comments. 🧀🍯🌶️