Honey Walnut Shrimp

Honey walnut shrimp is a delicious fusion dish featuring crispy fried shrimp coated in a creamy honey-mayo sauce and topped with sweet, candied walnuts. The contrast of crunchy, sweet nuts with the tender shrimp and silky sauce creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors. I love how this dish feels like a restaurant treat but is simple enough to make at home whenever I’m craving something special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it delivers big flavor with surprisingly few ingredients. The honey mayo sauce is creamy and lightly sweet, the walnuts add a satisfying crunch, and the shrimp cook quickly and turn beautifully golden. Whether I’m serving it over rice for dinner or as a party appetizer, it always feels a little indulgent—and a lot satisfying.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the candied walnuts:
walnut halves
sugar
water

For the shrimp:
large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
egg whites
cornstarch
salt
oil (for frying)

For the honey sauce:
mayonnaise
honey
sweetened condensed milk
lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

Optional garnish:
green onions
sesame seeds
extra candied walnuts

Directions

1. I start by candying the walnuts: I simmer them in a pan with sugar and water for a few minutes, then remove and let them dry on parchment paper.

2. I prepare the shrimp by tossing them with beaten egg whites, then dredging in cornstarch seasoned with a bit of salt.

3. I heat oil in a pan or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C) and fry the shrimp in batches until golden and crispy, about 2–3 minutes per side. I drain them on paper towels.

4. For the sauce, I whisk together mayonnaise, honey, and sweetened condensed milk until smooth.

5. I toss the crispy shrimp in the honey sauce and top with candied walnuts and optional green onions or sesame seeds for serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I add a splash of lemon juice or rice vinegar to the sauce to balance the sweetness. I’ve also made it with air-fried shrimp for a lighter version. When I want a bit of heat, I stir in a dash of sriracha or chili flakes. If I don’t have walnuts, I’ve used pecans or almonds with great results.

Storage/Reheating

I store the shrimp and sauce separately to keep the shrimp crispy. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I warm the shrimp in the oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) until crisp, then toss with fresh sauce just before serving. The candied walnuts stay best in an airtight container at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, I just thaw them completely and pat them dry before coating and frying to get that crisp texture.

How do I keep the shrimp crispy?

I fry in small batches and avoid overcrowding the pan. I also toss with the sauce just before serving, not too early.

Can I bake or air fry the shrimp?

Yes, I spray them with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) or air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway for a crisp finish.

Is this dish very sweet?

It has a sweet note, but I balance it with lemon juice or a bit of salt in the sauce to keep it well-rounded.

What should I serve with honey walnut shrimp?

I usually serve it over white rice or jasmine rice. It’s also great with a side of steamed broccoli or a light cucumber salad.

Conclusion

Honey walnut shrimp is a showstopping dish that’s full of flavor, texture, and irresistible sweetness. With its creamy sauce, crispy shrimp, and crunchy candied walnuts, it’s one of those meals I can count on to impress guests—or just treat myself. Whether I’m making it for a weeknight dinner or a celebration, it always delivers that perfect blend of sweet and savory satisfaction.