20 Fiery Carolina Reaper Spicy Recipes

Carmen Eldridge

March 30, 2025

Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 20 scorching recipes that feature the world’s hottest pepper, the Carolina Reaper! With a Scoville heat unit rating of over 1.5 million, this pepper is not for the faint of heart. But if you’re up for the challenge, we’ve got you covered. From savory dishes like Carolina Reaper Chili Con Carne and Carolina Reaper BBQ Ribs to sweet treats like Carolina Reaper Infused Honey and Carolina Reaper Chocolate Truffles, these recipes will put your taste buds to the test.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at 20 mouth-numbingly spicy recipes that incorporate the Carolina Reaper in all sorts of creative ways. Whether you’re a seasoned heat-seeker or just looking to spice up your meal routine, there’s something for everyone on this list.

Carolina Reaper Hot Sauce

Carolina Reaper Hot Sauce
Add a spicy kick to your meals with this homemade Carolina Reaper hot sauce recipe, featuring the world’s hottest pepper.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup Carolina Reaper peppers, seeded and chopped
– 1/2 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Combine the chopped Carolina Reapers and sugar in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth.
2. In a small saucepan, combine the blended pepper mixture, vinegar, water, and salt. Whisk until well combined.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
5. Strain the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any solids.

Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes

Carolina Reaper Chili Con Carne

Carolina Reaper Chili Con Carne
For those who dare to challenge their taste buds, this Carolina Reaper chili con carne recipe is a must-try. This devilishly hot dish combines the world’s hottest pepper with rich beef and aromatic spices to create an unforgettable culinary experience.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 Carolina Reaper peppers, chopped (use gloves when handling)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream, shredded cheese, and diced onions for toppings

Instructions:

1. Brown the beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add Carolina Reaper peppers, cumin, and chili powder; cook 1 minute.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes and red kidney beans.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes or until thickened.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes

Carolina Reaper Infused Honey

Carolina Reaper Infused Honey
Carolina Reaper Infused Honey Recipe

Summary:
Take your honey game to the next level by infusing it with the infamous Carolina Reaper pepper! This sweet and spicy combination is perfect for adding a unique twist to your favorite recipes.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup pure honey
– 1-2 whole Carolina Reaper peppers, depending on desired heat level
– 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, combine the honey and water over low heat.
2. Slice the Carolina Reaper peppers into thin strips and add them to the honey mixture.
3. Stir occasionally for about 10-15 minutes or until the honey has reached a smooth consistency and the flavors have melded together.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Strain the honey through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any pepper solids.

Cooking Time:
Approximately 10-15 minutes

Note: Adjust the amount of Carolina Reaper peppers to your desired level of spiciness. Also, be cautious when handling hot peppers as the oils in them can cause skin irritation.

Carolina Reaper BBQ Ribs

Carolina Reaper BBQ Ribs
Experience the bold heat of the Carolina Reaper pepper in this unique BBQ rib recipe. These tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs are smothered in a spicy-sweet sauce that will leave you craving more.

Ingredients:

– 2 racks of pork ribs
– 1/4 cup Carolina Reaper BBQ sauce (see below for recipe)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Remove membrane from back of ribs and season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. Grill ribs for 2-3 minutes per side, or until slightly charred.
4. Brush with Carolina Reaper BBQ sauce during the last 5 minutes of grilling.
5. Let ribs rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Carolina Reaper BBQ Sauce Recipe:

– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon Carolina Reaper peppers, minced

Cooking time: Approximately 30-40 minutes. Serve hot and enjoy the spicy ride!

Carolina Reaper Mango Salsa

Carolina Reaper Mango Salsa
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with this spicy-sweet fusion of flavors! This Carolina Reaper Mango Salsa combines the heat of one of the world’s hottest peppers with the sweetness of ripe mangoes, making it a unique and addictive condiment for any meal.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups diced fresh mango
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 Carolina Reaper pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, and Carolina Reaper.
2. Stir in cilantro and lime juice until well combined.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Cooking Time: None needed! This salsa is best served chilled or at room temperature.

Carolina Reaper Chocolate Truffles

Carolina Reaper Chocolate Truffles
These rich and decadent truffles combine the intense heat of the Carolina Reaper pepper with the deep flavor of dark chocolate, creating a unique and addictive treat.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120g) heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon (15g) unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon Carolina Reaper powder (adjust to desired heat level)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. In a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over simmering water, melt the chocolate chips.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream, butter, vanilla extract, and Carolina Reaper powder until smooth.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the mixture to firm up.
4. Use a melon baller or spoon to scoop out small portions of the mixture and roll into balls between your palms.
5. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.

Cooking Time: None, as this is a no-bake recipe.

Carolina Reaper Pickled Eggs

Carolina Reaper Pickled Eggs
Carolina Reaper Pickled Eggs Recipe

Add a spicy kick to your snack game with these Carolina Reaper pickled eggs!

Ingredients:

– 1 dozen large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/4 cup (60ml) white vinegar
– 1/4 cup (60ml) water
– 2 tbsp (30g) pickling spice blend (containing mustard seeds, coriander seeds, and others)
– 1 tsp (5g) salt
– 1 Carolina Reaper pepper, sliced into thin rings (use gloves when handling the peppers!)
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, combine vinegar, water, pickling spice blend, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Add sliced Carolina Reaper pepper rings to the pickling liquid. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the eggs are coated in the spicy mixture.
4. Remove from heat, let cool slightly.
5. Transfer the pickled eggs to a clean glass jar with tight-fitting lid. Refrigerate at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes

Carolina Reaper Beef Jerky

Carolina Reaper Beef Jerky
This recipe combines the intense heat of the world’s hottest pepper, the Carolina Reaper, with the savory flavor of beef jerky. Perfect for thrill-seeking snack enthusiasts, this spicy treat is sure to ignite your taste buds.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef (top round or flank steak), sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1-2 Carolina Reaper peppers, diced (depending on desired heat level)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add sliced beef to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Remove beef from marinade and place on a wire rack set over a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the beef and sprinkle with diced Carolina Reaper peppers (if using).
6. Bake for 3-4 hours, or until jerky reaches desired level of dryness.
7. Let cool completely before slicing into individual strips.

Cooking Time: 3-4 hours

Carolina Reaper Deviled Eggs

Carolina Reaper Deviled Eggs
Elevate your deviled egg game with the addition of the world’s hottest pepper, the Carolina Reaper! This spicy twist on a classic will leave you breathless.

Ingredients:

– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1-2 Carolina Reaper peppers, seeded and finely chopped (depending on desired level of heat)
– Paprika, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise.
2. Scoop out the yolks and place them in a bowl.
3. Mix the yolks with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, horseradish, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
4. Add the chopped Carolina Reaper peppers to the yolk mixture and stir well.
5. Spoon the yolk mixture back into the egg white halves.
6. Sprinkle paprika on top for garnish.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Notes:

– Wear gloves when handling the Carolina Reaper peppers to avoid skin irritation.
– Start with 1 pepper and adjust to taste, as the heat level can quickly become overwhelming.
– These deviled eggs are perfect for adventurous eaters and spicy food enthusiasts!

Carolina Reaper Bloody Mary

Carolina Reaper Bloody Mary
Elevate your morning routine with this bold and spicy take on the classic Bloody Mary. The Carolina Reaper, currently recognized as the world’s hottest pepper, adds a thrilling kick to this savory cocktail.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 ounces vodka
– 1 ounce tomato juice
– 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup Carolina Reaper-infused simple syrup (see note)
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Lime wheel, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, tomato juice, lime juice, Carolina Reaper simple syrup, and Worcestershire sauce.
2. Add ice and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds.
3. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel.

Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!

Carolina Reaper Mac and Cheese

Carolina Reaper Mac and Cheese
Carolina Reaper Mac and Cheese Recipe:

A spicy twist on a classic comfort food, this Carolina Reaper Mac and Cheese combines the creamy richness of macaroni and cheese with the intense heat of the world’s hottest pepper. Get ready to ignite your taste buds!

Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt, to taste
– 1/2 teaspoon Carolina Reaper pepper flakes (adjust to desired heat level)
– Optional: chopped scallions and crumbled bacon for garnish

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together for 1 minute, forming a roux.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2 minutes.
5. Remove the sauce from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Add paprika, salt, and Carolina Reaper pepper flakes to taste. Stir well to combine.
7. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Mix well to coat.
8. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Carolina Reaper Stuffed Peppers

Carolina Reaper Stuffed Peppers
Heat up your taste buds with this spicy twist on a classic stuffed pepper recipe! These Carolina Reaper-filled peppers are sure to ignite your palate with their bold flavor and intense heat.

Ingredients:

– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Carolina Reaper pepper flakes
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until browned.
4. Add cooked rice, Carolina Reaper pepper flakes, tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Stuff each pepper with the meat mixture and top with shredded cheese (if using).
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes until peppers are tender.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Carolina Reaper Pizza

Carolina Reaper Pizza
Carolina Reaper Pizza: A Spicy Twist on a Classic Favorite

This recipe combines the bold flavors of Carolina Reaper peppers with creamy mozzarella cheese and savory tomato sauce, creating a pizza that will leave even the most adventurous eaters breathless.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/2 cup tomato sauce
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 2-3 Carolina Reaper peppers, finely chopped (depending on desired level of heat)
– 1/4 cup red pepper flakes
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Roll out pizza dough and spread tomato sauce evenly, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
4. Add chopped Carolina Reaper peppers and red pepper flakes on top of the cheese.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Carolina Reaper Guacamole

Carolina Reaper Guacamole
For those who dare to venture into the realm of extreme heat, this Carolina Reaper guacamole is a must-try. This unique take on traditional guacamole adds the world’s hottest pepper, the Carolina Reaper, for an unparalleled spicy kick.

Ingredients:

– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1-2 Carolina Reaper peppers, seeded and finely chopped (depending on desired heat level)
– 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro leaves

Instructions:

1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. In a large bowl, combine lime juice, red onion, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the chopped Carolina Reaper peppers to the bowl and stir well.
4. Gently mash the avocado halves with a fork until mostly smooth.
5. Add the mashed avocado to the bowl and mix until fully incorporated.
6. Stir in the cilantro leaves.
7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Cooking Time: None needed! Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Carolina Reaper Chicken Wings

Carolina Reaper Chicken Wings
Get ready for a spicy adventure with this Carolina Reaper Chicken Wings recipe! This dish combines the intense heat of the world’s hottest pepper, the Carolina Reaper, with the classic comfort food of chicken wings.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1-2 Carolina Reaper peppers, seeded and finely chopped (depending on desired level of heat)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together hot sauce, butter, honey, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chopped Carolina Reaper peppers to the bowl and stir until well combined.
4. Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss until they are fully coated with the spicy mixture.
5. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange the wings on the baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the wings are cooked through and caramelized.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

Carolina Reaper Cornbread

Carolina Reaper Cornbread
Experience the intense heat of the world’s hottest pepper, the Carolina Reaper, in this mouth-numbing cornbread recipe. Perfect for those who dare to take on the spiciest of flavors.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 large egg
– 1-2 Carolina Reaper peppers, seeded and finely chopped (depending on desired heat level)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, honey, egg, and chopped Carolina Reaper peppers.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour in the melted butter and mix until smooth.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Carolina Reaper Tacos

Carolina Reaper Tacos
Take your taco game to the next level with this bold recipe featuring the world’s hottest pepper, the Carolina Reaper. This devilish dish is not for the faint of heart, but for those who dare to try something new and thrilling.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 Carolina Reaper pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Salsa, sour cream, and avocado for toppings

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add chopped onion, cilantro, garlic, and Carolina Reaper pepper to the skillet. Cook until the mixture is heated through.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by spooning the spicy beef mixture onto a warmed tortilla and topping with cheese, if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy (or not)!

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Carolina Reaper Fried Rice

Carolina Reaper Fried Rice
Get ready for a spicy twist on traditional fried rice! This recipe combines the heat of Carolina Reapers with savory flavors and textures.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon Carolina Reaper pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cooked rice to the skillet. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, breaking up any clumps.
5. Push rice mixture to one side of the skillet. Crack in eggs and scramble until cooked through.
6. Mix eggs with rice mixture. Add soy sauce, Carolina Reaper pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using). Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes

Carolina Reaper Ice Cream

Carolina Reaper Ice Cream
Experience the thrill of the world’s hottest pepper in a cool and creamy treat. This recipe combines the intense heat of the Carolina Reaper with rich vanilla ice cream, creating a unique and unforgettable flavor experience.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
– 1-2 Carolina Reaper peppers (depending on desired heat level)
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Combine heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar in a medium saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let it steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Finely chop the Carolina Reaper peppers (wear gloves to avoid irritating skin) and add them to the mixture. Stir well to combine.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once churned, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and place it in the freezer for at least 2 hours to firm up.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes + churning time

Carolina Reaper Margarita

Carolina Reaper Margarita
Carolina Reaper Margarita Recipe

Get ready to level up your cocktail game with this spicy and sweet margarita recipe, featuring the world’s hottest pepper, the Carolina Reaper.

Ingredients:

– 2 ounces tequila
– 1 ounce lime juice
– 1/2 ounce triple sec
– 1/2 ounce simple syrup
– 1-2 dashes Carolina Reaper pepper-infused bitters (depending on desired heat level)
– Salt for rimming glass
– Lime wheel, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Rim a rocks glass with salt.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, lime juice, triple sec, and simple syrup.
3. Add 1-2 dashes of Carolina Reaper pepper-infused bitters (depending on desired heat level).
4. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds.
5. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel.

Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!

Note: Adjust the amount of Carolina Reaper pepper-infused bitters to your desired level of spiciness. If you’re not comfortable with extreme heat, start with 1 dash and add more to taste.

Summary

Get ready to ignite your taste buds with 20 scorching hot Carolina Reaper recipes! This fiery collection includes sweet and savory dishes that incorporate the world’s hottest pepper. From spicy sauces like Carolina Reaper Hot Sauce, to sweet treats like Carolina Reaper Chocolate Truffles, there’s something for every level of heat seeker. Try cooking up a pot of Carolina Reaper Chili Con Carne or indulging in some Carolina Reaper BBQ Ribs. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, give the Carolina Reaper Mango Salsa or Carolina Reaper Pickled Eggs a try. Whatever your pleasure, these 20 recipes are sure to bring the heat!

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