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Crispy Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe Easy Homemade with Candied Walnuts

crispy honey walnut shrimp - featured image

A quick and easy recipe featuring golden, crispy shrimp glazed in honey and paired with glossy candied walnuts for a sweet-savory treat perfect for family gatherings and potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-on for presentation)
  • 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup (30g) cornstarch
  • 1 large egg, beaten (room temperature)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Vegetable oil (canola or peanut oil), for frying
  • 1/3 cup (120ml) honey (raw or wildflower honey preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 cup (120g) walnut halves
  • 1/3 cup (65g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • Pinch of salt
  • Chopped green onions or finely chopped parsley (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Candied Walnuts: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon butter. Add 1/3 cup sugar and a pinch of salt, stirring constantly. Once the sugar melts and bubbles (about 3-4 minutes), toss in the walnut halves until fully coated and glossy. Transfer immediately to a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool and harden (about 10 minutes).
  2. Make the Batter: In a medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup flour, 1/4 cup cornstarch, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the beaten egg and stir until smooth. Adjust thickness with water or flour as needed.
  3. Prep the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  4. Fry the Shrimp: Heat about 2 inches of oil in a pan or wok to 350°F (175°C). Dip each shrimp into the batter, letting excess drip off, then carefully lower into hot oil. Fry in batches (4-6 shrimp) until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  5. Prepare the Honey Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, mayonnaise, sweetened condensed milk (if using), and lemon juice until smooth and creamy.
  6. Combine & Serve: Place fried shrimp in a large bowl, pour honey sauce over, and gently toss to coat evenly. Add cooled candied walnuts and toss lightly. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

[‘Keep the batter cold for crispier shrimp.’, ‘Do not overcrowd the pan to maintain oil temperature and crispiness.’, ‘Pat shrimp dry before battering to help batter stick.’, ‘Maintain oil temperature around 350°F (175°C) for best results.’, ‘Make candied walnuts fresh just before serving to keep crunch.’, ‘Serve immediately after tossing with sauce to keep shrimp crispy.’, ‘Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat in oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.’, ‘Candied walnuts can be stored separately for up to a week.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: honey walnut shrimp, crispy shrimp, candied walnuts, easy shrimp recipe, sweet and savory shrimp, family dinner, potluck recipe