The Flavor Feed: Sweet Heat
Also known as ‘swicy,’ the concept of sweet heat combines a hot flavor from ingredients like peppers, ginger, or cinnamon with a sugary element such as honey, maple syrup, fruit or even chocolate.
This balance of sweetness adds to the spiciness without upstaging its kick.
Swicy is gaining traction across the menu—from snacks and sauces to desserts and drinks. Consumers are craving more complexity in their heat, gravitating toward pepper-specific flavor profiles and unexpected spicy-sweet combinations. Whether it’s hot mango wings, jalapeño-caramel corn, or cocktails kissed with chili and citrus, this flavor trend is heating up.
The Flavor Feed: Swicy
The appeal of swicy comes down to balance. A little sweetness takes the edge off the spice, without muting it—making it easier to enjoy and easier to pair. As diners and drinkers get more adventurous, they’re looking beyond plain “spicy” to flavor profiles that feel layered and intentional. Sweet-and-spicy combos on menus are up 38%, and over half of consumers say they like or love them. And with swicy flavors expected to grow another 61% in the next few years, it’s clear the craving isn’t cooling down anytime soon!
Looking to bring that sweet-heat energy to drinks, sauces, or desserts? Swicy-friendly flavors like Spicy Mango, Chipotle Pineapple, Habanero Lime, Hot Honey, and Spicy Agave Sweetener from Monin offer easy ways to explore the trend across formats and cuisines.
Did you know?
The word “swicy” may be new, but the flavor combo isn’t. From Korean gochujang to Mexican chamoy and Southern pepper jelly, cultures around the globe have long embraced sweet heat. Now, it’s trending everywhere—from hot sauces and glazes to craft cocktails and candy aisles.
Snake Bite
Ingredients
1 1/2 oz. Premium Vodka
3/4 oz. Monin Habanero Lime Syrup
1/4 oz. Monin Cinnamon Syrup
3 oz. Ginger Beer
3 oz. Purified Water
Preparation
Fill serving glass full of ice.
Pour ingredients into serving glass in order listed.
Pour mixture into mixing tin and back into serving glass to mix.
Add garnish and serve.
The Flavor Feed
Welcome to The Flavor Feed, your go-to column for the latest buzz in the world of spirits, cocktails, and all things flavor-packed. Whether it’s uncovering bold new trends, spotlighting standout ingredients, or diving into expert tips, we’re here to keep your palate inspired and your creativity flowing. Let’s explore what’s shaking, stirring, and mixing in the industry this month!
The post The Flavor Feed: Sweet Heat appeared first on Chilled Magazine.