Make this St. Patrick's Day unforgettable with traditional Irish recipes featuring a delicious honey twist. From hearty honey-glazed corned beef and honey beer bread to festive shamrock shakes and sweet Irish treats, these St. Patrick's Day recipes celebrate authentic Irish food with natural sweetness from our Eastern Shore honey. Whether you're planning a family feast or looking for easy Irish recipes to celebrate March 17, you'll find both classic dishes and creative takes on traditional Irish cuisine that bring the warmth of the Emerald Isle to your table.
The Perfect St. Patrick's Day Treat
Looking for party favors that aren't filled with corn syrup and food dye? Our Honey Lollipops bring the sweet to your St. Patrick's Day celebration without the artificial junk. Made with pure raw honey and natural flavors—no green #5, no regrets.
Choose from flavors like zesty Lemon, refreshing Ginger, or classic Honey. Each lollipop is handcrafted in small batches, Star K Kosher certified, and individually wrapped for easy sharing. Perfect for classroom treats, party favors, or bribing leprechauns. A little gold in every pop.
Shop Honey Lollipops →Why Irish Food and Honey Are a Perfect Match
Irish cuisine has always celebrated simple, quality ingredients that let natural flavors shine. Honey has been treasured in Ireland for centuries, appearing in traditional Irish recipes from breads to beverages. When you add minimally filtered raw honey to Irish dishes, you're honoring that heritage while enhancing flavors with natural sweetness that complements everything from savory corned beef to sweet Irish desserts.
Our collection of St. Patrick's Day recipes features honey in unexpected ways, from glazing meats to sweetening beverages, creating dishes that taste authentically Irish while offering modern twists that make these traditional recipes your own.
The Story Behind St. Patrick's Day
St. Patrick's Day, celebrated annually on March 17, marks the feast day of Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. This day commemorates the arrival of Christianity in Ireland, largely attributed to Saint Patrick himself. Born in Roman Britain in the late 4th century, Patrick was kidnapped and brought to Ireland as a slave at age 16. After escaping, he returned to Ireland as a missionary, playing a pivotal role in converting the Irish to Christianity.
The holiday originally began as a religious feast day in the 17th century, but over time it has evolved into a global celebration of Irish culture and heritage. The day is marked by parades, wearing of green attire, and public festivals, embodying the vibrant spirit of the Emerald Isle. In Ireland, St. Patrick's Day was traditionally a more solemn occasion with religious services and feasts. However, as Irish immigrants spread across the world—particularly to the United States—the holiday transformed into the lively celebration we know today.
Celebrate Irish traditions year-round with our seasonal collections.
From its religious roots to its modern-day festivities, St. Patrick's Day reflects the enduring legacy of Irish culture and the widespread influence of its traditions. Whether you're enjoying traditional Irish dishes, partaking in a parade, or simply donning green, the day is a testament to the rich history and cultural impact of Ireland.
Traditional Irish Drinks: Start Your Celebration Right
St. Patrick's Day wouldn't be complete without festive Irish drinks to toast the occasion. Whether you're looking for refreshing smoothies or warm, comforting beverages, our collection of Irish drink recipes has something for everyone. From vibrant green concoctions to rich and indulgent sips, these drinks capture the essence of Irish culture and tradition.
Bee Green Smoothies
For something sweet and healthy to start your St. Patrick's Day, blend up a batch of our Bee Green Smoothies. These vibrant smoothies give you that festive shamrock green color without artificial ingredients. Made with spinach, banana, and avocado, they're packed with nutrients and naturally sweetened with our Wildflower Honey. This is one of the healthiest St. Patrick's Day recipes you can make, perfect for breakfast or a midday energy boost.
The natural green color comes from fresh spinach and avocado, making these smoothies as nutritious as they are festive. Kids and adults alike love the mild, sweet flavor that honey provides, making it easy to sneak in those greens without any complaints.
Irish Hot Chocolate
Warm up your St. Patrick's Day with our decadent Irish Hot Chocolate, one of the most indulgent Irish drink recipes you'll find. This luxurious beverage combines rich cocoa powder, velvety dark chocolate, and a touch of Orange Blossom Honey for natural sweetness. Elevated with creamy milk, a splash of Irish cream, and a hint of Irish whiskey, this drink embodies the spirit of the Emerald Isle.
Perfect for sipping by the fire on a chilly March evening, this Irish Hot Chocolate is a cozy way to celebrate the holiday with friends and family. The honey adds depth and complexity to the chocolate, while the Irish cream provides that authentic Irish touch that makes this recipe special.
Hot Toddy
Nothing warms the soul quite like a classic Hot Toddy on St. Patrick's Day. This traditional Irish drink combines Irish whiskey, hot water, fresh lemon juice, and honey for a soothing beverage that's perfect for celebrating on cool March evenings. The honey dissolves beautifully in the warm liquid, creating a naturally sweet drink that's been enjoyed for generations.
The Hot Toddy is particularly beloved in Irish culture for its warming properties and comforting flavors. Whether you use Irish whiskey to stay authentic or prefer bourbon or rye, the combination of citrus, honey, and spirits creates a timeless drink that's both simple and sophisticated. This is one of those classic Irish recipes that never goes out of style.
Homemade Shamrock Shake
Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with our delightful Homemade Shamrock Shake, a creamy and refreshing treat that captures the essence of the holiday. This festive shake is made with rich vanilla ice cream, creamy milk, a hint of mint extract, and a touch of Spring Honey for natural sweetness.
To achieve that iconic shamrock green hue, we've added just a splash of green food coloring, making it a perfect addition to your St. Patrick's Day recipes. This shake is both nostalgic and delicious, evoking memories of childhood celebrations while offering a homemade alternative that tastes far better than anything you can buy. Enjoy this as a fun way to toast to the Emerald Isle!
Traditional Irish Bread Recipes
No Irish meal is complete without fresh-baked bread. These traditional Irish bread recipes showcase honey's ability to enhance flavors and create perfect texture in everything from beer bread to soda bread.
Honey Beer Bread
Irish soda bread and beer bread both hold cherished places in traditional Irish cuisine, but they differ in their leavening methods. While soda bread relies on baking soda and buttermilk to rise, beer bread uses the carbonation and yeast from beer to achieve its fluffy texture.
Our Honey Beer Bread recipe is magical, and it's not just because it's made with honey. This easy Irish bread requires minimal effort and delivers maximum flavor. The honey adds subtle sweetness that balances the beer's slight bitterness, creating a perfectly balanced loaf that's ideal for serving with butter or alongside hearty meals.
For an extra special treat, make your own Homemade Ginger Beer using Alfalfa Honey and use it in this bread recipe. The combination of spicy ginger and sweet honey creates incredible depth of flavor that makes this one of our favorite St. Patrick's Day recipes.
Traditional potato bread also has different variations across Europe and makes an excellent accompaniment to any Irish meal. The hearty, comforting texture pairs perfectly with soups, stews, and roasted meats.
Hearty Irish Main Dishes
These traditional Irish dishes are the heart of any St. Patrick's Day feast. We've added honey twists to classic recipes, creating main courses that honor Irish culinary traditions while bringing something new to your table.
Honey-Glazed Corned Beef
Corned beef and cabbage is perhaps the most iconic of all St. Patrick's Day food traditions, especially in America. We've added a special spin by glazing the beef with our Eastern Shore honey, creating a beautiful caramelized exterior that's both savory and slightly sweet.
Our Honey-Glazed Corned Beef makes a great family meal for weekday nights as well as holiday celebrations. You can prepare this Irish recipe in a crockpot if you're strapped for time—simply cook for 6-8 hours, and you'll come home to a perfect meal. The honey glaze adds richness and helps create that coveted crispy exterior when you finish it in the oven.
Since this is a substantial dish, you'll have plenty of leftovers for sandwiches the next day. Serve the corned beef on fresh bread (try our honey beer bread!) with a bit of mustard for a traditional Irish-American lunch that extends your St. Patrick's Day celebration.
Carrot Ginger Soup
A creative twist on traditional Irish potato and carrot soups, our easy Carrot Ginger Soup is a warm, filling meal that goes perfectly with crusty bread and a side of corned beef. The ginger adds warming spice while honey provides natural sweetness that complements the carrots' earthiness.
Add a few potatoes to the cooking pot to make this soup even heartier and more authentically Irish. For an extra touch of comfort, serve with creamy mashed potatoes on the side or stir in some cream for added richness. This is one of those easy Irish recipes that comes together quickly but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
Honey-Glazed Salmon
For a lighter alternative to traditional Irish meat dishes, try our Honey-Glazed Salmon. Swap out the bourbon in the original recipe for a dark Irish beer to give this dish authentic Irish flair. Serve with hearty potatoes, rice pilaf, or a fresh green salad, or place the salmon over a bed of wilted spinach for a truly elegant presentation.
This dish is a wonderful addition to any spread of Irish food, offering a modern twist on traditional flavors. Our favorite honey to use on fish is Orange Blossom, since its thick, buttery texture creates a beautiful glaze. You could also try using darker honey to complement the beer's malty notes, but the choice is entirely yours depending on your flavor preferences.
Sweet and Spicy Chili
Make this Sweet and Spicy Chili with your favorite dark Irish brew like Guinness for a bold, rich flavor that complements your St. Patrick's Day beverage choices perfectly. This recipe was originally made with veggie crumbles, but feel free to use turkey or grass-fed beef for a heartier version.
The combination of Spring Honey and spices creates a perfect balance of sweet and heat that makes this chili unforgettable. Make some potato bread on the side for dipping—the Irish tradition of serving bread with every meal makes perfect sense when you taste how well it soaks up this flavorful broth.
Since this is a crockpot recipe, it doesn't demand much of your time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you're entertaining. Chili also freezes beautifully, so if you have leftovers, save them for quick meals later. How much more perfect could a St. Patrick's Day recipe get?
Traditional Irish Appetizers and Sides
Start your St. Patrick's Day feast with these delicious Irish appetizers and sides that showcase honey's versatility in savory applications.
Soft Pretzel Bites with Honey Mustard
These Soft Pretzel Bites are made with honey for subtle sweetness that perfectly balances the salt. These pretzels are surprisingly easy to make and perfect for St. Patrick's Day parties! They pair perfectly with other pub foods and make a great companion for your mug of Irish beer.
The homemade honey mustard sauce is the real star here, made with Wildflower Honey and whole grain mustard. The combination creates a dipping sauce that's both tangy and sweet, elevating these pretzels from good to absolutely irresistible. These might just be one of our favorite St. Patrick's Day recipes for entertaining.
Sweet Irish Treats and Desserts
No St. Patrick's Day celebration is complete without Irish desserts. These sweet treats feature honey in creative ways that honor Irish culinary traditions while satisfying every sweet tooth.
Healthy Chocolate Pudding
Indulge your sweet tooth this St. Patrick's Day with our Healthy Chocolate Pudding, a guilt-free Irish dessert that combines wholesome ingredients with rich, chocolatey goodness. This delightful pudding is crafted with ripe banana and creamy avocado, providing a silky-smooth texture while packing in essential nutrients.
Infused with deep cocoa powder flavors and naturally sweetened with Linden Basswood Honey, each spoonful is a decadent experience. A hint of vanilla extract and a sprinkle of cinnamon add warmth and depth, while a topping of crunchy nuts offers the perfect balance of textures.
This dessert celebrates traditional Irish ingredients in a modern, health-conscious way, making it a perfect addition to your St. Patrick's Day recipes. Enjoy this luscious pudding as a healthy, festive treat after your hearty Irish meal!
Traditional Yellowman Candy
Did you know you can eat honeycomb? Our Raw Honeycomb is delicious straight from the hive.
Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with a delightful and traditional Irish candy known as Yellowman. This honeycomb toffee is a beloved treat in Northern Ireland, often associated with fairs and festivities. Its vibrant yellow color and crunchy texture make it a perfect addition to your St. Patrick's Day recipes, offering a sweet taste of authentic Irish culture.
Yellowman candy is made with honey, brown sugar, butter, and baking soda, creating a light, airy confection that shatters delightfully when you bite into it. The honey flavor shines through, making this candy a true celebration of one of Ireland's most treasured ingredients.
Planning Your St. Patrick's Day Menu
Creating the perfect St. Patrick's Day feast means balancing traditional Irish dishes with creative touches that make the meal your own. Here's how to plan a complete menu using our honey-enhanced Irish recipes:
Start with Drinks: Set the festive tone with Irish Hot Chocolate or Bee Green Smoothies, or offer adult beverages like whiskey honey drinks if desired.
Appetizers: Serve Soft Pretzel Bites with Honey Mustard to get guests excited about the meal ahead.
Main Course: Choose between Honey-Glazed Corned Beef or Honey-Glazed Salmon as your centerpiece.
Sides: Add Carrot Ginger Soup and plenty of Honey Beer Bread to round out the meal.
Dessert: Finish strong with Healthy Chocolate Pudding or traditional Yellowman Candy.
After-Dinner Drinks: Keep the celebration going with Homemade Shamrock Shakes or more Irish Hot Chocolate.
Tips for Making St. Patrick's Day Special
Make It Ahead: Many of these Irish recipes can be prepared in advance. Honey Beer Bread can be made the morning of your celebration, and soups taste even better the next day.
Involve the Family: Let kids help with simple tasks like measuring honey, mixing dough for bread, or assembling pretzel bites. These shared experiences create lasting St. Patrick's Day memories.
Set the Mood: Play traditional Irish music, decorate with shamrocks and green accents, and consider sharing stories about Irish culture and heritage while you enjoy your meal.
Visit Our Store: Stop by our Owings Mills retail location to pick up honey and other artisanal goods for your St. Patrick's Day cooking. We love helping customers find the perfect honey varieties for their recipes.
The Role of Honey in Irish Culture
Honey has played an important role in Irish culture for centuries. Ancient Irish monks kept bees and used honey to make mead, a fermented honey beverage that was central to celebrations and ceremonies. Irish folklore is filled with references to honey as a precious commodity, often mentioned alongside gold and other treasures.
In traditional Irish medicine, honey was used for its soothing properties in teas and remedies. This cultural appreciation for honey makes it a perfect ingredient to incorporate into St. Patrick's Day recipes, connecting modern celebrations to ancient Irish traditions.
When you use our Eastern Shore honey in these Irish recipes, you're honoring that heritage while supporting small-scale beekeeping and sustainable food production—values that align perfectly with traditional Irish respect for the land and its bounty.
Celebrate Irish Traditions All Year
While St. Patrick's Day is the perfect occasion to explore Irish cuisine, these traditional recipes are delicious any time of year. The hearty, comforting nature of Irish food makes it ideal for cold weather months, while the use of fresh, simple ingredients aligns with seasonal eating principles we embrace at Bee Inspired Goods.
Explore our seasonal collections to find inspiration for celebrating throughout the year with natural, artisanal products. From Spring Awakening to Winter Respite, we believe in honoring the rhythms of nature while creating meaningful rituals around food and celebration.
Frequently Asked Questions About St. Patrick's Day Recipes
What are traditional Irish foods for St. Patrick's Day?
Traditional Irish foods for St. Patrick's Day include corned beef and cabbage, Irish stew made with lamb or beef, Irish soda bread, colcannon (mashed potatoes with cabbage or kale), and shepherd's pie. Many of these Irish recipes can be enhanced with honey for added flavor and natural sweetness.
Can I use honey instead of sugar in Irish recipes?
Yes! Honey works beautifully in Irish recipes, especially in breads, glazes, and desserts. Use about ¾ cup of honey for every cup of sugar, and reduce other liquids slightly. Honey adds moisture and depth of flavor that complements traditional Irish ingredients perfectly. Learn more about baking with honey.
What type of honey is best for St. Patrick's Day cooking?
For savory Irish dishes like corned beef, try our Wildflower Honey or Buckwheat Honey for deeper flavor. For breads and drinks, Spring Honey or Orange Blossom Honey provide lighter, more delicate sweetness.
How can I make St. Patrick's Day food green naturally?
Skip artificial food coloring! Use natural ingredients like spinach, avocado, matcha powder, or spirulina to create green color in smoothies, drinks, and dishes. Our Bee Green Smoothies get their vibrant color from spinach and avocado.
What drinks go well with Irish food?
Traditional options include Irish beer (like Guinness), Irish whiskey, Irish coffee, and Irish cream liqueur. For non-alcoholic choices, try our Irish Hot Chocolate, Bee Green Smoothies, or Homemade Shamrock Shakes.
Can I make Irish recipes ahead of time?
Many Irish recipes actually improve when made ahead! Soups and chili develop deeper flavors overnight. Irish soda bread and beer bread are best fresh but can be made the morning of your celebration. Most Irish desserts can also be prepared a day in advance.
What makes Irish soda bread different from regular bread?
Irish soda bread is a quick bread that uses baking soda instead of yeast for leavening. It's traditionally made with buttermilk, which reacts with the baking soda to create lift. This method was popular in Ireland because it didn't require expensive yeast or lengthy rising times.
Are there vegetarian St. Patrick's Day recipes?
Absolutely! Try our vegetarian Sweet and Spicy Chili made with beans and vegetables, Carrot Ginger Soup, Honey Beer Bread, and any of our honey-sweetened drinks and desserts.
Your St. Patrick's Day Celebration Starts Here
As you prepare to celebrate St. Patrick's Day, remember that the best Irish recipes are those made with quality ingredients and shared with people you love. Whether you're hosting a large gathering or enjoying a quiet family dinner, these honey-enhanced Irish recipes bring authentic flavors and natural sweetness to your table.
From traditional corned beef to creative honey-glazed salmon, from festive drinks to satisfying desserts, every recipe in this collection celebrates Irish culinary traditions while adding the special touch that only pure, minimally filtered honey can provide.
We invite you to explore these St. Patrick's Day recipes, experiment with different honey varieties, and create your own Irish food traditions. Visit our Owings Mills location to taste different honeys and get personalized recommendations for your St. Patrick's Day cooking.
May your St. Patrick's Day be filled with good food, good company, and the luck of the Irish! Sláinte!
