In 2025, one thing is clear: people are tired of the usual. They’re not just looking for good food—they want something that surprises them. That’s where bold, unexpected spice pairings come in. The rise of combinations like chili with honey and cinnamon with chipotle is reshaping what we expect from flavor.
Why “Swicy” Works
Sweet + Spicy = Swicy. That’s the formula behind this shift. And it’s working. Product launches featuring chili with sweet components have grown by over 61% globally in just five years, according to Innova Market Insights. The reason? We’re hardwired to crave contrast. A little heat with sweetness hits multiple pleasure points in the brain—satisfying and exciting at once.
Think: the drizzle of hot honey over fried chicken, or a spicy kick in your chocolate dessert.
Chili + Honey: Not Just a Trend
Chili-infused honey is leading this movement. It’s showing up everywhere—from pizzerias to cocktail menus. A big driver has been retail brands like Mike’s Hot Honey, which has gone from niche to mainstream. In fact, Google Trends shows a 200% increase in searches for “hot honey” recipes over the last 24 months.
Fast food is catching on, too. Chipotle recently tested a Chipotle Honey Chicken that sold out in trial locations. The blend of smoky heat and sweetness is addictive and easy to love.
Cinnamon + Chipotle: Comfort Meets Smoke
Cinnamon isn’t just for apple pie anymore. When paired with chipotle, it takes on a whole new character—warm, smoky, and bold. This combo is appearing in spice rubs, marinades, and even desserts. One popular U.S. spice blend brand saw a 38% rise in demand for their chipotle-cinnamon rub in Q1 2025 compared to last year.
Chefs are using this mix for plant-based dishes and slow-cooked meats, giving both an earthy, slightly sweet heat that lingers. It’s familiar, but with an edge.
What This Means for Businesses
If you’re in food service or retail, ignoring these combinations might mean missing out. Flavor is a key purchase driver—65% of global consumers say they’re more likely to try a product if it offers a “new and interesting taste.”
Private-label brands are starting to respond. Seasoning blends with “honey chipotle” or “cinnamon chili” are taking up more shelf space at both gourmet shops and big-box stores. Menu innovation is following suit. Expect to see more “swicy” items across snacks, sauces, rubs, and even breakfast categories by the end of the year.
Final Thought
These emerging pairings aren’t just trends—they’re a reflection of changing palates. People want more from flavor: contrast, surprise, and a reason to come back for another bite. Whether you’re formulating a new product or rethinking your spice rack, now’s the time to explore what chili, honey, cinnamon, and chipotle can really do—together.
At Majestic Spice, we’ve seen firsthand how demand is shifting toward bold, clean-label blends. As a partner to food brands and manufacturers across the U.S., we’re helping develop spice combinations that speak to this moment—simple, powerful, and unforgettable.