The first bite of Honey Walnut Shrimp is an unforgettable experience—sweet, crunchy candied walnuts meet juicy, golden-fried shrimp, all wrapped in a creamy honey-mayo glaze. This crowd-pleasing dish is a favorite in Chinese-American cuisine and is often the highlight at any restaurant dinner spread.
But now, you can make this iconic dish right at home with simple ingredients and easy steps. The contrasting textures of the crispy shrimp and the caramelized walnuts perfectly complement the rich, tangy-sweet sauce. Whether you’re planning a special family meal or just craving something indulgent, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor in every bite.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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1/2 cup walnut halves
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1/2 cup sugar
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1/2 cup water
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1/2 cup mayonnaise
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2 tablespoons honey
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1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk
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1 teaspoon lemon juice
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1 egg white
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1/2 cup cornstarch
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Neutral oil for deep frying
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Pinch of salt
Directions:
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In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar and water. Stir until sugar dissolves. Bring to a boil, add walnuts, and cook for 2–3 minutes.
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Use a slotted spoon to remove walnuts and place on parchment paper to cool and harden.
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In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, honey, condensed milk, and lemon juice. Set aside.
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In a separate bowl, lightly beat egg white. Add shrimp, tossing to coat. Then dredge shrimp in cornstarch until well coated.
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In a deep skillet or pot, heat neutral oil over medium-high heat. Once hot (350°F/175°C), fry shrimp in batches for 2–3 minutes per side or until golden and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
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Let the shrimp cool for 1–2 minutes, then toss with the creamy honey sauce until evenly coated.
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Top with candied walnuts and serve immediately with steamed rice or vegetables.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 470 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Origins of Honey Walnut Shrimp
Honey Walnut Shrimp is a beloved dish in Chinese-American cuisine that has carved its place as a fan favorite in both restaurants and home kitchens. While it’s not a traditional dish you’d find in mainland China, it has become a staple offering in many American Chinese restaurants, particularly those inspired by Cantonese cooking. The dish likely has roots in the fusion style of cuisine that evolved as Chinese immigrants adapted recipes to American tastes during the 20th century.
This dish beautifully balances textures and flavors—juicy shrimp deep-fried to golden perfection, glazed in a sweet and creamy sauce made of honey, mayonnaise, and condensed milk, and topped with caramelized walnuts. It’s this unique harmony of crispy, creamy, sweet, and savory that makes Honey Walnut Shrimp so popular.
Why Honey Walnut Shrimp Is So Addictive
The appeal of Honey Walnut Shrimp lies in its perfect storm of contrasts. The shrimp are tender inside but crisp on the outside from their light cornstarch batter. The creamy sauce combines the richness of mayonnaise with the sweetness of honey and the silkiness of condensed milk, offering a velvety coating that clings to every bite. The candied walnuts not only add sweetness but also a satisfying crunch that elevates the entire experience.
This dish is a classic example of how contrasting textures and flavors work together to create an addictive culinary masterpiece. Sweet and salty, crunchy and smooth—it hits every craving point. It’s also visually striking, with glossy shrimp and shiny glazed walnuts that make it look as good as it tastes.
Cultural and Modern Influence
Although the dish may not be rooted in historical Chinese recipes, it has become symbolic of the evolving Chinese-American food culture. Honey Walnut Shrimp represents the creativity that emerges when traditional techniques meet Western ingredients.
It’s also one of those dishes that you often find in celebratory meals. In many Asian-American households, Honey Walnut Shrimp is considered a luxurious treat reserved for special occasions, such as Chinese New Year, family banquets, or birthdays. It’s known as a “splurge” dish at restaurants, often priced a bit higher because of the shrimp and the prep involved—but worth every cent for the experience it delivers.
In recent years, the dish has gained traction among food bloggers and content creators. With the rise of viral recipe videos on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, Honey Walnut Shrimp has re-emerged as a recipe to make at home. It’s especially popular among home cooks who want to recreate takeout favorites in their own kitchens with a healthier twist or fresher ingredients.
Tips for Perfecting Honey Walnut Shrimp at Home
Although this dish might seem intimidating at first glance, it’s quite manageable with the right preparation. The key lies in timing and technique. You want to ensure your shrimp are crispy and your walnuts are perfectly candied before combining everything in the creamy sauce.
One tip is to fry the shrimp just before serving to maintain their crisp texture. The sauce should also be mixed in only at the end to prevent sogginess. Likewise, giving the candied walnuts time to dry ensures they keep their crunch when added on top. The contrast in textures between the warm, crispy shrimp and the cool, glossy walnuts is what makes the dish shine.
To make the recipe lighter, some cooks opt to use an air fryer or oven instead of deep-frying. Others may substitute Greek yogurt for some of the mayonnaise to reduce fat content. It’s a highly adaptable recipe that allows you to adjust according to your preferences without compromising on flavor.
Pairing Suggestions
Honey Walnut Shrimp pairs beautifully with a wide variety of sides. A classic choice is plain steamed jasmine rice, which helps soak up the sauce and provides a neutral base. Garlic noodles or lo mein can also make excellent accompaniments if you’re in the mood for a heartier meal.
For a healthier angle, consider serving this dish with stir-fried vegetables like bok choy, broccoli, or snow peas. The freshness and crunch of the greens provide a refreshing counterpoint to the rich shrimp and walnuts. Even a simple cucumber salad with rice vinegar and sesame oil can help balance out the flavors.
Drinks-wise, something crisp and lightly sweet works best. Think jasmine tea, a chilled Sauvignon Blanc, or even a light sparkling beverage to cleanse the palate between bites.
Nutritional Value and Dietary Considerations
This dish is indulgent by nature but can be adjusted to fit different dietary goals. Traditional versions include mayonnaise and sweetened condensed milk, which contribute to a higher fat and sugar content. However, you can substitute in light mayo, low-sugar honey, or even dairy-free condensed milk alternatives if needed.
For those with gluten sensitivity, be cautious when selecting ingredients like cornstarch or mayonnaise, as some may contain additives. You can easily make this gluten-free by choosing verified gluten-free brands and ensuring that the frying oil is uncontaminated.
If you’re on a low-carb or keto-friendly diet, Honey Walnut Shrimp may not be the best option due to the sugar and starch. However, you can experiment with low-carb coatings for the shrimp and sugar alternatives for candying the walnuts.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Like many fried dishes, Honey Walnut Shrimp is best enjoyed immediately after preparation. However, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
To reheat, avoid the microwave as it will make the shrimp rubbery and soggy. Instead, use an air fryer or oven at a low temperature to help restore some crispness. Note that the walnuts may lose their crunch over time, so if you’re prepping this in advance, consider storing them separately and adding them fresh upon reheating.
Popular Variations
There are many creative spins on the classic Honey Walnut Shrimp. Some people like to add a little kick by stirring in sriracha or chili flakes to the creamy sauce. Others may include a dash of soy sauce or sesame oil to give the flavor profile a more savory edge.
For a tropical flair, you can add chunks of fresh pineapple or mango, which complement the honeyed sweetness of the shrimp. A vegan variation is also possible by substituting the shrimp with crispy tofu or cauliflower, making it accessible to plant-based eaters.
Another great variation is to use different nuts—candied pecans or almonds can offer a different twist on the flavor and texture while keeping the dish exciting.
Why This Dish Deserves a Spot in Your Weekly Menu
Despite its rich flavor and seemingly elaborate preparation, Honey Walnut Shrimp is surprisingly easy to make once you’ve tried it a couple of times. It’s a restaurant-quality dish that you can confidently serve to guests or enjoy for a cozy night in. The ingredients are relatively easy to find, and the overall cook time is short—making it perfect for weeknight dinners or impromptu celebrations.
Additionally, the dish scales well. You can double or halve the recipe depending on your group size, and it travels well if you’re bringing food to a gathering. Its wide appeal makes it a go-to for potlucks, birthdays, and casual get-togethers.
Conclusion
Honey Walnut Shrimp is more than just a dish—it’s a culinary experience that brings together the best of texture, flavor, and visual appeal. Born out of fusion cuisine, it captures the spirit of innovation in Chinese-American cooking and continues to win over hearts with every creamy, crunchy bite.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering it for the first time, there’s something magical about the way this dish delivers indulgence and comfort in every mouthful. From family dinners to special occasions, Honey Walnut Shrimp deserves a cherished place in your recipe rotation. It’s a delicious reminder that with a few pantry staples and some culinary curiosity, restaurant-level satisfaction is only 30 minutes away.
