Honey Walnut Shrimp : Crispy, Creamy, and Better Than Takeout

If you’re craving a restaurant-style dish that’s easy to make at home, Honey Walnut Shrimp is a perfect choice. This classic Chinese-American seafood entrée features crispy fried shrimp tossed in a creamy, sweet sauce with candied walnuts. It’s bold in flavor, fast to prepare, and ideal for a satisfying shrimp dinner recipe that looks and tastes like it came from your favorite takeout spot.

Whether you’re serving this over steamed rice or alongside stir-fried veggies, this recipe brings together everything you love about easy shrimp recipes in under 40 minutes.

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Why This Is the Best Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe

This version of Honey Walnut Shrimp is flavorful, crispy, and perfectly balanced between sweet and savory. The sauce is made with mayonnaise, honey, and sweetened condensed milk—creating a silky texture that clings beautifully to golden-fried shrimp. Candied walnuts add crunch and a caramelized sweetness that takes the dish over the top.

Best of all, you can make it from start to finish using simple, everyday ingredients, no deep fryer required.

Ingredients for Honey Walnut Shrimp

Here’s everything you need to make this Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe at home:

For the shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 egg whites
• ½ cup cornstarch
• Pinch of salt

For the candied walnuts:

• ½ cup walnut halves
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup water

For the sauce:

• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk

For serving:

• Cooked jasmine or white rice
• Optional: scallions, sesame seeds, or extra walnuts for garnish

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

You don’t need a restaurant kitchen to pull off this dish. Here’s what to gather before you begin:

• Mixing bowls
• Saucepan (for candying walnuts)
• Frying pan or skillet
• Whisk
• Tongs or a slotted spoon
• Paper towels
• Baking sheet with parchment (for cooling walnuts)

How to Make Honey Walnut Shrimp

Step 1: Candy the Walnuts

In a small saucepan, combine sugar and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then add the walnut halves. Let them simmer for 2–3 minutes, then transfer to a parchment-lined tray to cool and harden.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, honey, and sweetened condensed milk. Set aside.

Step 3: Coat the Shrimp

In a medium bowl, beat egg whites until frothy. Add shrimp and coat well. Toss the shrimp in cornstarch until fully covered.

Step 4: Fry the Shrimp

Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat (about 350°F/175°C). Fry shrimp in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

Step 5: Combine

Add fried shrimp to a bowl and pour in the creamy sauce. Toss gently to coat. Add candied walnuts and mix briefly.

Step 6: Serve

Plate the shrimp over hot rice and garnish with extra walnuts, sesame seeds, or green onions, if desired.

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Tips for the Perfect Honey Walnut Shrimp

• Use raw shrimp, not pre-cooked—this ensures maximum flavor and crispiness.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying; work in batches to keep shrimp golden.
• Coat the shrimp right before frying to keep the batter light and crunchy.
• Serve immediately after saucing for the best texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the candying step: Raw or plain walnuts won’t deliver the right flavor or texture.
• Over-frying shrimp: They cook fast—remove as soon as they’re golden and opaque.
• Too much sauce: This can weigh down the shrimp and make them soggy. Start small, then add more as needed.

Serving Ideas: Honey Walnut Shrimp With Rice and More

While this dish is often paired with jasmine rice, you can serve it in a variety of ways to fit the occasion:

• Spoon over coconut rice or fried rice for added flavor
• Serve in lettuce cups for a lighter presentation
• Pair with stir-fried vegetables or a crisp cucumber salad
• Plate with steamed broccoli or snap peas to add freshness

If you enjoy seafood, try pairing this with a side of Creamy Shrimp and Asparagus Pasta or a bowl of High-Protein Vegetable Soup for a complete meal.

Variations: Easy Honey Walnut Shrimp for Every Preference

Want to make this dish your own? Try these simple variations:

• Air Fryer Method: Use an air fryer at 400°F for 8–10 minutes to cut down on oil.
• Baked Version: Bake coated shrimp on a parchment-lined tray at 425°F until golden.
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free mayo and maple syrup in place of honey and condensed milk.
• Nut-Free: Omit the walnuts or swap them with crispy fried noodles for texture.

How to Store and Reheat Honey Walnut Shrimp

While best served fresh, you can store leftovers for up to 2 days in an airtight container.

To reheat:

• Use an air fryer or toaster oven to crisp the shrimp again.
• Warm sauce separately and re-toss before serving.
• Avoid microwaving directly with sauce—it can make the shrimp soggy.

More Shrimp Recipes for Dinner

If you’re in a seafood mood, here are more shrimp recipes easy enough for busy nights:

• Shrimp and Asparagus Pasta – light, fresh, and lemony
• Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Shrimp – rich and comforting
• Garlic Butter Shrimp over Mashed Potatoes – indulgent and satisfying

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Honey Walnut Shrimp FAQ

Can I make Honey Walnut Shrimp ahead of time?
Yes—candy the walnuts and prep the sauce in advance. Fry shrimp just before serving for best results.

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, as long as they’re completely thawed and patted dry.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your cornstarch and sauce ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I use a different protein?
Chicken, tofu, or even cauliflower can be substituted if you prefer.

Final Thoughts: Master This Seafood Takeout Classic at Home

Whether you’re recreating a takeout favorite or cooking something special for dinner, Honey Walnut Shrimp is a delicious, crowd-pleasing seafood entrée that never fails. Crispy, creamy, and sweet in every bite, it’s the kind of meal you’ll want to make again and again. Try it with rice, veggies, or lettuce wraps, and don’t forget to share the recipe with fellow shrimp lovers.

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