Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the aroma of sizzling shrimp fills the kitchen, I can’t help but feel a small thrill of excitement—it’s time to dive into my favorite appetizer: Hot Honey Fried Shrimp. This dish marries the crispiness of perfectly fried shrimp with the tantalizing sweetness of a hot honey sauce, creating a sophisticated twist on a classic that never fails to impress. Not only is this recipe a delight to make, but it also comes together quickly, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary journey, you’ll love how this spicy seafood dish brings a touch of warmth and joy to your table. Are you ready to get your shrimp on and indulge in this flavor explosion? Why is Hot Honey Fried Shrimp a Must-Try? Irresistible Flavor: The balance of sweet honey and spicy sauce creates an explosion of flavors that keeps everyone coming back for more. Quick Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have perfectly crispy shrimp ready to serve in no time—ideal for busy weeknights! Versatile Delight: Enjoy as an appetizer, toss into tacos, or pair with a side salad—this dish fits any occasion! Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is sure to impress your family and friends, just like my Honey BBQ Chicken does! Easy Substitutions: With options for gluten-free and dairy-free versions, this recipe accommodates various dietary preferences without compromising on taste. Dive into this culinary adventure and let the flavors enchant you! Honey Fried Shrimp Ingredients • Dive into the deliciousness with these essential ingredients for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp! For the Shrimp Shrimp – Tender, peeled, and deveined shrimp deliver the perfect sweet seafood flavor. Frozen shrimp can be used; just thaw and dry thoroughly. For the Coating All-purpose Flour – Creates a crispy, golden coating while locking in moisture; substitute with gluten-free flour if needed. Garlic Powder – Adds savory depth without the fuss; fresh garlic can be used for a bolder flavor. Onion Powder – Enhances the coating’s flavor with aromatic goodness. Smoked Paprika – Infuses mild smokiness for extra depth; use regular paprika for a less smoky taste. Cayenne Pepper – Packs a punch of heat to balance the sweetness; adjust based on your spice tolerance. Salt – Essential for seasoning the shrimp; avoid substitutions for best results. Black Pepper – Delivers a subtle sharpness to the flavor profile. Eggs – Binds the coating together; a flax egg works as a vegan substitute. Milk – Lightens the egg mixture for smoother batter; consider plant-based milk for a dairy-free option. For Frying Vegetable Oil – Necessary for frying; choose a high smoke point oil like canola or peanut oil. For the Hot Honey Sauce Honey – The star of the sauce, bringing sweetness and a glossy finish; maple syrup is a lovely vegan alternative. Hot Sauce – Adds that tangy heat; feel free to adjust it to your taste—some favorites are Frank’s RedHot or Sriracha. Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to the sauce; margarine can be swapped in if desired. Apple Cider Vinegar – Provides the acidity to balance the flavors perfectly. Red Pepper Flakes – For extra heat and texture; omit if you prefer a milder sauce. Now that we have everything lined up, let’s fry up some flavor! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey Fried Shrimp Step 1: Prepare the Hot Honey Sauce In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine honey, hot sauce, unsalted butter, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Stir gently until the mixture is smooth and the butter is completely melted, which takes about 3–5 minutes. Once blended, remove it from the heat and set the hot honey sauce aside to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the shrimp. Step 2: Rinse and Dry the Shrimp Thoroughly rinse 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp under cold running water, removing any excess particles. Pat the shrimp dry using paper towels, allowing them to soak up moisture, which will help achieve that crispy coating during frying. Make sure they are completely dry before proceeding to the next step for the best results. Step 3: Make the Coating Mixture In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. This flavorful mixture will create a crispy shell around your honey fried shrimp. Ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour for a consistent taste. Step 4: Prepare the Egg Wash In a separate bowl, beat 2 large eggs and mix in ½ cup of milk until well combined. This egg wash will help the flour coating adhere to the shrimp. It’s important to have everything ready before frying, so you can work efficiently and keep the shrimp hot and crispy as they cook. Step 5: Heat the Oil In a deep pan or heavy-bottomed pot, pour in vegetable oil, filling it about 2 inches deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C)—use a kitchen thermometer for accuracy. The oil should shimmer but not smoke, indicating that it’s hot enough for frying the shrimp to a perfect, golden brown. Step 6: Coat the Shrimp Take each shrimp and dredge it first in the seasoned flour, ensuring it’s well coated. Next, dip it into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off, and then return it to the flour mixture for a second coating. This double-dipping method guarantees a crunchy texture that complements the succulent shrimp beautifully. Step 7: Fry the Shrimp Carefully place a few shrimp into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them in batches for about 2–3 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the shrimp from the oil and transfer them onto paper towels to drain any excess oil. Step 8: Toss in Hot Honey Sauce Once all the shrimp are fried, place them in a large bowl and pour the prepared hot honey sauce over them. Gently toss the shrimp to ensure they’re evenly coated in the delicious, sweet, and spicy mixture. The warm honey sauce will cling beautifully to the crunchy coating, infusing every bite with flavor. Step 9: Serve Immediately Plate your honey fried shrimp and serve them hot, garnished with a sprinkle of extra red pepper flakes if desired. For an added touch, offer a small bowl of the hot honey sauce on the side for dipping. These crispy delights are best enjoyed fresh out of the fryer, delivering that perfect blend of texture and taste! Expert Tips for Honey Fried Shrimp Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil’s temperature remains at 350°F (175°C) for that perfect, crispy coating—use a thermometer for best results. Avoid Overcrowding: Fry shrimp in small batches to maintain even cooking and crispiness. Overcrowding can lead to soggy shrimp! Flavor Customization: Adjust the spice level by modifying the hot sauce and cayenne pepper—taste testers can find their perfect heat! Coating Technique: For extra crunch, double-dip the shrimp in the flour mixture and egg wash. This classic method promotes that delightful texture on your honey fried shrimp. Crispness Preservation: Serve immediately for the utmost freshness. Leftovers can be reheated in an oven to keep the coating crispy. Honey Fried Shrimp Variations Feel free to make this dish your own by trying out these fun and fabulous twists! BBQ Sauce Swap: Use BBQ sauce instead of hot sauce for a smoky-sweet variation that will surprise your taste buds. The flavors will dance together, creating a delightful BBQ-inspired experience! Coconut Crunch: Add shredded coconut to the flour mixture for an extra crunch and a tropical twist. This addition will elevate the texture and give a hint of the islands in each bite. Spicy Garlic: Toss in some minced garlic and a pinch of chili powder into the coating for a flavorful punch. Just imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen, it’s sure to impress your family! For a Low-Carb Version: Try almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for a lower-carb option that’s still crispy. This swap is perfect whether you’re on a keto diet or just want to reduce carbs without losing the crunch! Sweet Chili Sauce: Instead of the hot honey sauce, dip your shrimp in sweet chili sauce for a delicious blend of sweetness and slight heat. This twist will shine at your next get-together, just like serving Garlic Butter Shrimp for an indulgent treat. Lemon Zest Zing: Add lemon zest and a sprinkle of black pepper to the hot honey mixture for a fresh twist. This brightens up the dish, making it perfect for summer gatherings! Herbed Coating: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or thyme into the coating mixture for an herby aroma and flavor. The freshness will take your dish to another level, making it even more delightful. Enjoy experimenting with these variations, and don’t hesitate to mix and match to discover your perfect flavor combination! Make Ahead Options These Hot Honey Fried Shrimp are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prep the shrimp by coating them in the seasoned flour mixture up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerating them in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness. The hot honey sauce can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply fry the coated shrimp as directed and toss them in the warmed hot honey sauce. This ensures that your meal is just as delicious and flavorful, while dramatically cutting down on cooking time when it’s time to eat! How to Store and Freeze Honey Fried Shrimp Fridge: Store leftover honey fried shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispiness, place a paper towel at the bottom of the container to absorb moisture. Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag after freezing. They can last up to 3 months but may lose some crunch. Reheating: To reheat, place the shrimp in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid the microwave to keep them from getting soggy. Serving Fresh: For the best flavor experience, honey fried shrimp are best enjoyed fresh, so cooking in smaller batches can help minimize leftovers! What to Serve With Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Elevate your dining experience with delightful side dishes that perfectly complement the sweet and spicy crunch of your shrimp. Creamy Coleslaw: This cool and crunchy salad balances the heat of the shrimp, offering a refreshing counterpoint to each bite. It adds a delightful texture as well. Savory Cornbread: The slightly sweet and rich cornbread pairs beautifully with the hot honey flavors, soaking up any extra sauce for a comforting touch. Zesty Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with zesty lime and fresh cilantro marries well with the shrimp, adding a bright and vibrant note to your dish. Spicy Garlic Fries: Crispy fries tossed in garlic and chili powder provide an indulgent side while enhancing the overall kick of the meal. Dip in extra hot honey sauce for a tasty combo! Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette adds a fresh element, cleansing the palate between bites and balancing the richness of the shrimp. Mango Salsa: Sweet and tangy mango salsa not only offers a vibrant pop of color but also complements the sweet heat of the hot honey fried shrimp seamlessly. Pineapple Coconut Smoothie: For a refreshing drink, this smoothie brings together sweet tropical flavors that cool down the spiciness while enhancing the overall experience. Chocolate Chip Cookies: Indulge in a sweet finish after enjoying the shrimp—these warm cookies add a comforting sweetness that rounds out the meal perfectly. Honey Fried Shrimp Recipe FAQs How do I pick the best shrimp for this recipe? Absolutely! When choosing shrimp, look for ones that are firm and have a sweet, briny scent. If using frozen shrimp, make sure there are no dark spots all over, which could indicate freezer burn. Always opt for shrimp that are peeled and deveined for easier cooking! How should I store leftovers of Honey Fried Shrimp? You can store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep them crispy, I recommend placing a paper towel at the bottom of the container to absorb any moisture. This helps maintain that delicious crunch! Can I freeze Honey Fried Shrimp? Yes! To freeze, first allow the cooked shrimp to cool completely. Then, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, and they can be stored for up to 3 months. For the best texture, reheat in the oven instead of the microwave. What if I don’t have all the spices? No problem at all! If you lack specific spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper, feel free to use regular paprika or other spices such as chili powder for heat. The key is to ensure your coating mixture has a nice balance of flavor, so adjust according to your taste preference. Can I make this dish gluten-free? Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. This ensures you still get that delightful crispy coating without compromising on taste. Just check the labels to make sure all your ingredients are gluten-free! Is this recipe safe for pets? Keep in mind that shrimp can be a great treat for dogs, but it’s best to serve them plain, without any sauces or spices that could upset their stomach. Always consult with your veterinarian for specific dietary advice regarding your pets! Sweet and Spicy Honey Fried Shrimp for Home Cooks This Sweet and Spicy Honey Fried Shrimp combines crispy shrimp with a hot honey sauce, creating a delightful appetizer that everyone loves. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 35 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanCalories: 300 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Shrimp1 pound Peeled and deveined shrimp Frozen shrimp can be used; just thaw and dry thoroughly.For the Coating1 cup All-purpose flour Substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.1 teaspoon Garlic powder Fresh garlic can be used for a bolder flavor.1 teaspoon Onion powder1 teaspoon Smoked paprika Use regular paprika for a less smoky taste.½ teaspoon Cayenne pepper Adjust based on your spice tolerance.½ teaspoon Salt Essential for seasoning the shrimp; avoid substitutions.½ teaspoon Black pepper2 large Eggs A flax egg works as a vegan substitute.½ cup Milk Consider plant-based milk for a dairy-free option.For FryingFor the Hot Honey Sauce½ cup Honey Maple syrup is a lovely vegan alternative.¼ cup Hot sauce Some favorites are Frank's RedHot or Sriracha.2 tablespoons Unsalted butter Margarine can be swapped in if desired.1 tablespoon Apple cider vinegar¼ teaspoon Red pepper flakes Omit if you prefer a milder sauce. Equipment Medium SaucepanLarge mixing bowlDeep pan or heavy-bottomed pot Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Honey Fried ShrimpIn a medium saucepan over low heat, combine honey, hot sauce, unsalted butter, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Stir gently until the mixture is smooth and the butter is completely melted, about 3–5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.Thoroughly rinse the shrimp under cold running water and pat dry with paper towels.In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the coating ingredients until well combined.In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the milk.Fill a deep pan with vegetable oil, about 2 inches deep, and heat to 350°F (175°C).Dredge each shrimp in the seasoned flour, then dip into the egg wash, and return to the flour for a second coating.Fry the shrimp in batches for about 2–3 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown.Place the fried shrimp in a large bowl and pour the hot honey sauce over them, tossing to coat.Serve immediately, garnished with extra red pepper flakes if desired. Nutrition Serving: 4shrimpCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 200mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesStore leftover shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For best results, serve fresh and reheat in the oven. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!