Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe: Honey Walnut Shrimp is a wildly popular Chinese-American dish that blends crispy, golden-battered shrimp with a rich, creamy honey sauce and crunchy candied walnuts. The combination of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors—along with contrasting textures—makes it an irresistible treat that you’ll often find on the menu at Chinese restaurants, especially in places like Panda Express or PF Chang’s.
But here’s the best part—you don’t need to go out or order takeout to enjoy this dish. With just a few key ingredients and a bit of know-how, you can make a restaurant-quality version right at home. It’s not just about saving money or eating healthier—there’s something deeply satisfying about recreating this beloved dish from scratch in your own kitchen. Trust me, once you try it homemade, you’ll rarely go back to store-bought versions.
What sets this dish apart is the unique pairing of flavors. The shrimp brings the umami, the honey sauce adds sweetness and creaminess, while the candied walnuts provide a satisfying crunch and subtle caramelized nuttiness. It’s a flavor explosion in every bite.
Why This Dish is So Popular?
Honey Walnut Shrimp has earned its fanbase for all the right reasons—it’s indulgent, flavorful, and feels like a luxury meal. Think about it: sweet and creamy sauce, deep-fried shrimp that’s still juicy inside, and caramel-coated walnuts adding a delightful crunch? That’s a winning combo in any cuisine.
Besides the taste, another reason this dish is so loved is how visually appealing it is. The golden shrimp, glossy honey sauce, and glistening candied walnuts together make for a stunning plate. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner or serving guests at a party, this dish always steals the show.
Moreover, it checks all the comfort food boxes. It’s warm, rich, filling, and layered with multiple flavors. Unlike some traditional Chinese dishes that might be lighter or vegetable-heavy, this one is unapologetically indulgent—and that’s exactly why people crave it.
Ingredients Breakdown
Essential Ingredients for Honey Walnut Shrimp
Let’s break down what you need to get started. These are the core components of a classic Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe:
- Shrimp – Use large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined. Tail-on is fine for presentation, but not necessary.
- Cornstarch or potato starch – This will give the shrimp that crispy, light texture when fried.
- Egg whites – Used to bind the starch to the shrimp.
- Walnuts – The star nut of the dish. Choose whole or halved walnuts for best texture.
- Granulated sugar – Essential for candying the walnuts.
- Water – For boiling the sugar syrup.
- Mayonnaise – The creamy base for the honey sauce.
- Honey – Adds the signature sweetness.
- Condensed milk – This might surprise you, but it gives the sauce richness and a bit of depth.
- Oil – A neutral oil like vegetable or canola for frying.
These are your go-to items. Keep in mind, this recipe isn’t about overwhelming complexity. Each ingredient plays a big role and comes together beautifully in the final dish.
Optional Ingredients to Elevate the Flavor
Now, if you’re the kind of cook who likes to tweak and experiment, here are a few optional add-ons and enhancements:
- Lemon juice or zest – To cut through the sweetness and add brightness.
- Rice vinegar – For a subtle tang in the sauce.
- Chili flakes or sriracha – For those who want a little heat.
- Garlic powder – Adds an aromatic layer to the shrimp or sauce.
- Green onions – Finely chopped for garnish and a mild oniony bite.
Adding one or two of these can give your version a personal flair. Try it once the traditional way, then tweak it to your heart’s content.
Ingredient Substitutes for Dietary Needs
If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions or simply trying to eat a bit cleaner, don’t worry. This recipe is pretty adaptable.
- Shrimp substitute – Try tofu, tempeh, or even cauliflower florets for a vegetarian version.
- Cornstarch substitute – Arrowroot powder or almond flour can be used for a gluten-free, paleo-friendly version.
- Mayonnaise substitute – Vegan mayo or Greek yogurt works great for dairy-free needs.
- Honey substitute – Maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan twist.
- Condensed milk substitute – Use coconut condensed milk for a dairy-free alternative.
The goal here is to make the dish yours, without losing the soul of what makes it special. You’ll be surprised how versatile it can be when you start swapping ingredients to suit your taste or lifestyle.
Preparing the Candied Walnuts
Ingredients for Candied Walnuts
Here’s what you need to candy those walnuts and get them deliciously crisp and sweet:
- ½ cup of walnut halves
- ½ cup of granulated sugar
- ½ cup of water
That’s it—three simple ingredients. No need for fancy tools or specialty sugars. Just your stove and a small saucepan.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Boil the Syrup: Start by combining the sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir it until the sugar dissolves and the mixture starts to boil.
- Add the Walnuts: Toss in the walnut halves and let them simmer in the syrup for about 2-3 minutes. You’re not trying to overcook them—just enough for them to absorb some of the sweetness.
- Drain and Dry: Using a slotted spoon, scoop the walnuts out and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a cooling rack.
- Let Them Harden: Give them about 10-15 minutes to dry and harden. You’ll notice a glossy coat forming on the surface. That’s your crunchy candied finish.
Optional: For an extra crunch, pop the walnuts into a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 8-10 minutes. Just keep an eye on them—they can go from perfect to burnt quickly.
Tips to Get the Perfect Crunch
- Don’t skip the drying step. Letting the walnuts cool and harden is essential.
- Use fresh walnuts. Stale or old nuts won’t give you the same texture or taste.
- Try a light dusting of sea salt. It balances out the sweetness beautifully.
- Roast lightly beforehand. Pre-roasting walnuts (just a few minutes in the oven) deepens their flavor before candying.
These small tips can take your candied walnuts from good to amazing. They’re so good you might find yourself snacking on them before they even hit the shrimp!
Marinating the Shrimp
Cleaning and Deveining Shrimp Properly
Before anything else, prep your shrimp. Cleaning them right makes a world of difference in both taste and texture.
- Peel the shells off, if not already done.
- Leave the tails on for presentation if you like—it’s optional.
- Use a paring knife or shrimp deveiner to slice along the back.
- Remove the black vein (it’s actually the digestive tract).
- Rinse them under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
Clean shrimp means no gritty bites and better absorption of flavor when marinated. Don’t skip this step—it’s a must.
Ideal Marinade for Maximum Flavor
Marinating doesn’t need to be complicated, but it should be effective. Here’s a quick marinade mix:
- 2 egg whites
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Optional: ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Whisk the egg whites until frothy, then add in cornstarch and salt. Toss in the shrimp and coat them evenly. This not only adds flavor but gives the coating something to cling to.
Time Required for Marination
Good news—you don’t need hours. In fact, 15 to 20 minutes is plenty of time for the egg white mixture to work its magic. Too long and the shrimp might get mushy.
While the shrimp is marinating, it’s the perfect time to prep your sauce or start heating oil for frying.
Making the Crispy Shrimp Coating
Best Flours and Starches for Crispiness
Want that perfect crunch in every bite? The key lies in your coating. While many recipes use all-purpose flour, the real secret to restaurant-level crispiness is using a combo of starches.
- Cornstarch – This is the go-to for a light, crisp crust. It creates a delicate yet crunchy exterior.
- Potato starch – Offers a slightly thicker, more satisfying crunch. Great if you like extra texture.
- Tapioca starch – Adds a slight chewiness and is great for gluten-free options.
- Rice flour – Works well in combination with starches and is great for a super-light texture.
A solid ratio is 2 parts cornstarch to 1 part flour, which keeps the batter airy and helps it cling to the shrimp. Also, resist the urge to overmix. Lumps in your batter are okay—they create those delicious craggly edges when fried.
Mixing and Applying the Batter
Here’s how to prep the coating:
Ingredients:
- ½ cup cornstarch
- ¼ cup flour (or another starch)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp baking powder (for that airy texture)
- Cold water or sparkling water (for mixing)
Steps:
- In a mixing bowl, combine your dry ingredients.
- Slowly add cold water while stirring until the batter reaches a thick but pourable consistency—think pancake batter, but a bit thinner.
- Coat each marinated shrimp by dipping it fully into the batter.
- Lay them on a plate or tray, ready to fry.
Pro Tip: Use sparkling water for extra lightness. The bubbles help create a fluffier crust.
Double Frying Method Explained
Here’s where the magic happens. If you want ultra-crispy shrimp, don’t skip the double-frying method. Yes, it’s an extra step, but it’s worth it.
First Fry:
- Heat oil to around 325°F (160°C).
- Fry shrimp in small batches for about 2-3 minutes, just until lightly golden.
- Remove and place on a wire rack or paper towel.
Second Fry:
- Increase oil temperature to 375°F (190°C).
- Fry the pre-fried shrimp again for 30-60 seconds until deeply golden and super crispy.
Why double fry? The first fry cooks the shrimp, and the second one seals in the crunch. It also prevents sogginess when you toss them in the creamy sauce later.
Preparing the Sweet and Creamy Sauce
Ingredients for the Signature Sauce
The sauce is the soul of Honey Walnut Shrimp. It’s sweet, creamy, and slightly tangy with a luxurious texture.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- ¼ cup mayonnaise (Kewpie mayo gives an umami boost)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk
- ½ tablespoon lemon juice (optional for tang)
- Pinch of salt
Optional Add-ins:
- A dash of rice vinegar for extra acidity
- Chili flakes or sriracha for heat
You can easily double this recipe if you’re making a large batch or just want extra sauce (because let’s face it, we all do).
Blending Sauce for a Smooth Texture
Mix all the sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Use a whisk or spoon and stir until completely smooth and glossy. You’re aiming for a rich, pourable consistency.
Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature—cold mayo can make the sauce clump or separate. If you want the sauce a bit thinner, add a splash of warm water.
You can also blend it with a mini whisk or even a handheld blender for an ultra-smooth finish.
Adjusting Sweetness to Your Taste
Everyone has different sweet preferences. If you find the classic version a bit too sugary, tweak it like this:
- Use less honey and balance with lemon juice.
- Add a pinch of salt to round out the flavors.
- Incorporate a bit of Greek yogurt or sour cream to mellow the sweetness and add creaminess.
If you love it on the sweeter side, just increase the honey or condensed milk slightly.
This sauce should coat the back of a spoon and hold well when tossed with shrimp—creamy, dreamy, and oh-so-delicious.
Combining Shrimp, Sauce, and Walnuts
Tossing Techniques for Even Coating
Now comes the fun part—bringing everything together. Timing is everything here. You want your shrimp hot and crispy, your sauce smooth, and your walnuts crunchy.
Here’s the toss method:
- Place the freshly fried shrimp into a large mixing bowl.
- Drizzle the creamy honey sauce over the top.
- Gently toss using a rubber spatula or your hands (with gloves) to coat evenly.
- Add the candied walnuts and toss again lightly.
Be gentle—over-mixing can break the crispy coating. You want every piece lightly coated, not drowning in sauce.
Balancing Textures and Flavors
Great food is all about balance. Let’s break down the textures:
- Crunchy from the walnuts and fried coating
- Creamy from the sauce
- Juicy and tender shrimp inside
Flavor-wise, you’re hitting:
- Sweet from honey and condensed milk
- Savory from mayo and seasoning
- Slight tang from lemon or vinegar
If any one component feels overpowering, adjust next time. Want it tangier? Add lemon. Too sweet? Cut down the honey. More richness? Add a touch more mayo or a pat of butter to the sauce.
Final Garnishing Ideas
Presentation makes a difference! Here are some simple ways to level up the look and taste:
- Thinly sliced green onions – Add color and a fresh bite.
- Sesame seeds – Toasted ones give a nutty finish.
- Microgreens or cilantro – A modern, elegant twist.
- Extra candied walnuts on top for visual flair.
- A wedge of lemon for squeezing at the table.
These garnishes don’t just make it pretty—they enhance the flavors too. So don’t skip them!
Presentation and Serving Tips
Plating Like a Pro
You don’t need a culinary degree to make your dish look restaurant-worthy. Follow these simple plating tips:
- Use a shallow bowl or platter – This helps contain the sauce and shows off the shrimp.
- Layer the shrimp, don’t pile—give them room to shine.
- Drizzle extra sauce over the top for a glossy finish.
- Add garnishes last to keep them fresh and crisp.
- Serve immediately to preserve the crunch.
Color and contrast are key. Use a white or dark plate to make the golden shrimp pop. A sprinkle of green onions or sesame seeds adds that final chef’s touch.
Best Side Dishes to Serve With
While Honey Walnut Shrimp can stand on its own, pairing it with the right sides can turn your meal into a feast.
Here are a few perfect options:
- Steamed Jasmine rice – Classic and soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- Garlic noodles – Rich, buttery, and full of umami.
- Fried rice – Add veggies or egg for extra texture.
- Stir-fried broccoli or bok choy – Balances out the richness.
- Asian-style coleslaw – Refreshing, tangy contrast.
Pick one or two sides, and you’ve got a complete meal that’ll impress any guest—or just make your own dinner feel extra special.
Making it Instagram-Worthy
Let’s be real—this dish is made for social media. If you want those double-taps, here are a few tricks:
- Use natural lighting—near a window is best.
- Take shots from overhead or 45-degree angles.
- Use props like chopsticks, dipping bowls, and linen napkins.
- Show the process—drizzling the sauce, placing the walnuts, that crispy bite!
And don’t forget that final sprinkle of garnish for the photo finish.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
How to Store Without Losing Texture
Let’s face it—Honey Walnut Shrimp is best served fresh, right out of the fryer. But sometimes you make a little extra or want to prep ahead. Here’s how to store it properly without turning it into a soggy mess.
Step-by-step storage tips:
- Separate the components – If you know you’ll have leftovers, keep the shrimp, sauce, and walnuts in separate containers.
- Use airtight containers – Store shrimp and walnuts in dry containers lined with paper towels to absorb moisture.
- Refrigerate immediately – Store at 40°F (4°C) or below. Shrimp can last for up to 2 days safely in the fridge.
Avoid tossing the shrimp in sauce if you’re not eating it right away. The sauce will soften the crispy coating if stored together. For best results, store the sauce separately in a small sealed jar or container.
Best Reheating Methods
Reheating fried shrimp without ruining the texture can be tricky, but it’s totally doable. Here’s the best way:
Oven or Air Fryer Method (Best for Crispiness):
- Preheat oven or air fryer to 375°F (190°C)
- Place shrimp on a wire rack over a baking tray (or directly in the air fryer basket)
- Heat for 6–8 minutes until hot and crispy
- Microwave the sauce gently in 10-second intervals and toss shrimp in it right before serving
Microwave Method (Not recommended but doable):
- Heat shrimp on a plate lined with a paper towel for 30 seconds at a time
- Expect some softness; crispness will be lost
- Microwave sauce separately
Pro Tip: Never reheat the candied walnuts! They lose their crunch fast. Just store them at room temperature in a sealed bag and sprinkle fresh over your reheated dish.
Nutritional Information
Calories and Macronutrients
This dish may be packed with flavor, but let’s not kid ourselves—it’s indulgent. Here’s an estimate per serving (based on a standard portion with sauce and walnuts):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~550–650 kcal |
| Protein | ~20–25g |
| Fat | ~30–35g |
| Carbohydrates | ~35–40g |
| Sugar | ~15–20g |
| Sodium | ~600–800mg |
Keep in mind, the exact numbers will vary depending on portion size, how much sauce is used, and whether the shrimp are fried or baked.
This dish is high in fat due to the mayo and frying oil, and also high in sugar from honey and condensed milk. So, while it’s a fantastic treat, moderation is key—especially if you’re watching your macros.
Making a Healthier Version
Want to enjoy Honey Walnut Shrimp without the guilt? Here’s how to make it lighter but still tasty:
- Bake or air-fry the shrimp – Skip the oil and reduce calories significantly.
- Use light or vegan mayo – It cuts down on fat without sacrificing creaminess.
- Replace sweetened condensed milk – Use unsweetened Greek yogurt with a drizzle of maple syrup.
- Reduce honey – Use just 1 tablespoon, or swap it with agave.
- Load up on veggies – Serve with stir-fried greens or a side salad to bulk up your meal without adding calories.
Even small changes like these can make the dish more heart-healthy and waistline-friendly, while still delivering the flavors you crave.
Variations of Honey Walnut Shrimp
Vegetarian Alternatives
Missing shrimp but still want that honey walnut goodness? You’ve got options:
- Cauliflower – The best swap. Roast or air-fry battered cauliflower florets, then toss in the creamy sauce.
- Tofu – Use firm tofu cubes, coat in cornstarch, and pan-fry or bake until crispy.
- Mushrooms – Large portobellos or oyster mushrooms offer a meaty bite. Batter and fry for amazing texture.
- Vegan “shrimp” – Found in many Asian grocery stores, these are plant-based and mimic shrimp quite well.
Just follow the same process as with shrimp: coat, fry, toss, and top with candied walnuts. It’s satisfying and crowd-pleasing, even for meat lovers.
Gluten-Free and Keto Options
If you’re gluten-free or on a low-carb/keto diet, don’t worry—this dish can still fit your lifestyle.
For Gluten-Free:
- Use gluten-free cornstarch or arrowroot powder
- Double-check labels for mayo and other sauces
- Avoid flour-based batters and opt for pure starch
For Keto:
- Replace cornstarch with almond flour or crushed pork rinds
- Use sugar-free honey substitutes like stevia or monk fruit blends
- Make the sauce with keto mayo and heavy cream instead of condensed milk
- Limit the walnut candying or use a sugar-free syrup
With the right swaps, you can enjoy this classic dish without kicking yourself out of ketosis or upsetting your stomach.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooking Shrimp
Shrimp cook incredibly fast—like, blink-and-you-miss-it fast. Overcooked shrimp turn rubbery and dry, ruining the juicy texture we’re aiming for.
How to avoid it:
- Stick to 2-3 minutes in the oil for the first fry
- For the second fry, just 30–60 seconds is enough
- Watch for color change: shrimp go from translucent gray to opaque pink when done
Set a timer. Seriously. This one small step will make a huge difference.
Sauce Separation Issues
Nothing’s worse than a broken sauce—when mayo curdles or separates. Here’s how to keep it silky smooth:
- Room temp ingredients – Cold mayo and warm honey can clash and separate
- Don’t overheat the sauce – Avoid cooking it; just mix until combined
- Add liquids slowly – Blend honey and condensed milk into the mayo gradually
- Use full-fat mayo – Low-fat versions can separate more easily under heat
If your sauce does separate, whisk in a tiny bit of warm water and stir slowly to bring it back together.
Too Much or Too Little Sweetness
This dish walks a fine line between indulgent and overpowering. Too much sweetness? It’ll taste more like dessert. Too little? You miss the essence of Honey Walnut Shrimp.
Fixes:
- If too sweet: add a splash of lemon juice or rice vinegar
- If not sweet enough: drizzle in more honey or a bit of condensed milk
- Always taste as you go when making the sauce
Everyone’s sweet tooth is different, so tweak to your liking. A well-balanced sauce is the key to getting that addictively delicious flavor.
FAQs about Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe
1. What are the main ingredients in Honey Walnut Shrimp?
The primary ingredients in Honey Walnut Shrimp include large shrimp (peeled and deveined), walnuts, honey, mayonnaise, condensed milk, and lemon juice. Some recipes also call for egg whites and cornstarch for a crispy coating on the shrimp.
2. How do you make the candied walnuts for this recipe?
To make candied walnuts, start by boiling walnuts in water for a few minutes to soften them. Drain and toss them with sugar. Then, heat a skillet over medium heat, add the sugared walnuts, and stir continuously until they are evenly caramelized and golden brown. Let them cool before using in the dish.
3. Is Honey Walnut Shrimp gluten-free?
Honey Walnut Shrimp can be made gluten-free by substituting regular soy sauce with a gluten-free version and ensuring that the cornstarch used is certified gluten-free. Always check the labels of your ingredients to confirm they do not contain gluten.
4. Can I prepare Honey Walnut Shrimp ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare parts of the dish ahead of time. The candied walnuts and the sauce can be made in advance. However, for the best texture, it’s recommended to fry the shrimp and assemble the dish just before serving to keep the shrimp crispy.
5. What is the best way to serve Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Honey Walnut Shrimp is best served hot, topped with the creamy honey sauce and garnished with the candied walnuts. It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or vegetables for a complete meal.
6. How do I store leftovers of Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, though note that the shrimp may not be as crispy upon reheating.
Conclusion
Honey Walnut Shrimp isn’t just a recipe—it’s an experience. From the first bite of that crispy shrimp to the creamy honey sauce and those crunchy candied walnuts, it’s a flavor-packed dish that truly hits all the right notes. While it may look complex, breaking it down step-by-step makes it totally manageable, even for beginners.
Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion, impressing guests, or just treating yourself on a weekend night, this dish delivers. And once you try the homemade version? You’ll never settle for the takeout one again. Try different variations, make it healthier, or serve it over rice with some fresh greens. Whatever you do, just enjoy every single bite.
