Best Honey Walnut Shrimp
This Best Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor to your kitchen with crispy golden shrimp, creamy honey glaze, and crunchy candied walnuts. Sweet, savory, and satisfying — it’s the perfect homemade version of a beloved takeout classic that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- For the Candied Walnuts
- 1 cup walnuts
- ½ cup sugar
- ½ cup water
- Pinch of salt
- For the Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 2 egg whites
- ½ cup cornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Neutral oil for frying
- For the Honey Sauce
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice optional
Instructions
- Candy the Walnuts:
- Combine sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add walnuts and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until syrup thickens and coats the nuts. Remove and place on parchment paper to cool.
- Prepare the Shrimp:
- In a bowl, whisk egg whites until frothy. Add cornstarch, salt, and pepper to create a light batter. Coat each shrimp evenly.
- Fry the Shrimp:
- Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry shrimp in small batches for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Make the Honey Sauce:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, honey, condensed milk, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy. Adjust sweetness or tang to taste.
- Combine Everything:
- Gently toss the fried shrimp in the honey sauce until evenly coated. Add candied walnuts and mix lightly.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra walnuts or sesame seeds if desired. Best enjoyed fresh while crispy.
Notes
- Fry shrimp in batches to keep them crisp — overcrowding lowers oil temperature.
- Toss shrimp in sauce just before serving for the best texture.
- For a lighter version, air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Reduce honey slightly and add a splash of soy sauce for a more balanced sweetness.