Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen surrounded by the comforting scent of sizzling oil, I was reminded of why I fell in love with cooking in the first place. This Hot Honey Fried Shrimp recipe is an invitation to elevate your dining experience with just 20 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking. Imagine crispy, golden shrimp, each piece a harmonious blend of spice and sweetness, dancing together in a delightful hot honey glaze. Not only is it a show-stopping appetizer, but it also makes for an easy dinner option that’s bound to impress your guests or family. So, are you ready to indulge in this flavor-packed adventure that takes homemade comfort food to a whole new level? Let’s dive in! Why will you crave this dish? Irresistible flavors: The sweet and spicy hot honey sauce creates a mouthwatering contrast that will have your taste buds singing. Quick preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cooking, you can whip these up in no time! Crispy perfection: The golden, crunchy coating on each shrimp gives a delightful texture that’s simply addictive. Versatile appetizer: Perfect for any gathering—these shrimp can star as a party appetizer or elevate your weeknight dinner, like pairing with a fresh salad or Fried Rice Savor. Customizable heat: Adjust the heat to your liking by modifying the cayenne and hot sauce, making them ideal for all spice levels. Crowd pleaser: Whether serving friends or family, everyone will fall in love with these flavor-packed bites! Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Ingredients • Get ready to create a culinary delight with Hot Honey Fried Shrimp! For the Shrimp Shrimp – Use large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for the best seafood flavor. Eggs – Act as a binder for the flour; substitute with a flax egg for a vegan option. Milk – Lightens the egg mixture for a smoother batter; can swap with plant-based milk for lactose-free options. For the Coating All-Purpose Flour – Forms a light, crispy shell for the shrimp; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend if needed. Garlic Powder – Adds savory depth without preparation; fresh garlic can be used but may alter texture. Onion Powder – Contributes sweetness and flavor complexity; keep it for balance. Smoked Paprika – Infuses mild smokiness; can swap with regular paprika for less heat. Cayenne Pepper – Delivers sharp heat; adjust to taste for a milder result. Salt – Enhances overall flavor, essential to bring out the sweetness of the sauce. Black Pepper – Adds slight heat; can use white pepper for a milder flavor. For the Hot Honey Sauce Honey – The heart of the sauce, providing sweetness; use maple syrup for a different flavor. Hot Sauce – Adjusts the spice level of the honey sauce; Sriracha or Frank’s RedHot are popular choices. Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to the sauce; can use vegan butter for dairy-free. Apple Cider Vinegar – Balances sweetness with tang; lemon juice can be an alternative. Red Pepper Flakes – Sprinkles extra heat; can skip for a milder sauce. For Frying Vegetable Oil – For frying, choose oil with a high smoke point like canola or peanut. Get ready to prepare these delightful Hot Honey Fried Shrimp that will elevate your dining experience! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Step 1: Prepare Sauce In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup of honey, 2 tablespoons of your favorite hot sauce, 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the butter is melted and everything is well-combined, about 3–5 minutes. Once smooth, remove from heat and set aside to cool. Step 2: Prep Shrimp Rinse 1 pound of large, peeled and deveined shrimp under cold water and gently pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for preventing sogginess and achieving that perfect crispy texture. Lay the shrimp out on a clean surface or plate, ensuring they are not touching, so they prepare evenly for the coating. Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper until evenly combined. The vibrant colors and fragrant spices set the stage for the delicious Hot Honey Fried Shrimp you’re about to create. Step 4: Prepare Egg Mixture In a separate bowl, beat 2 large eggs along with 1/4 cup of milk until you achieve a smooth mixture. The egg wash will help the flour adhere to the shrimp, creating that crispy outer layer. Leave this mixture to the side, ready for the shrimp coating process. Step 5: Heat Oil Pour 2 inches of vegetable oil into a deep frying pan or cast-iron skillet and heat it to 350°F (175°C). Use a kitchen thermometer for accuracy, ensuring the oil is hot enough for frying. You’ll know it’s ready when small bubbles begin to form around a bread crumb or a pinch of flour dropped into the oil starts sizzling immediately. Step 6: Coat Shrimp Dredge the prepared shrimp in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Next, dip each shrimp into the egg wash to coat thoroughly, and then back into the flour mixture for a second coating. This double-dipping technique ensures a thicker and crunchier crust on your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp once fried. Step 7: Fry Shrimp Carefully place the coated shrimp into the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Fry them for about 2–3 minutes or until they turn a golden brown color and float to the surface. Use a slotted spoon to remove the shrimp, letting them drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil for that crispier finish. Step 8: Toss in Sauce Once all the shrimp are fried, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the prepared hot honey sauce over the shrimp generously and toss gently but thoroughly to ensure every piece is well-coated. The combination of sweet and spicy will elevate the flavor profile of your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp to delectable heights. Step 9: Serve Arrange the tantalizing Hot Honey Fried Shrimp on a beautiful serving platter, garnishing with fresh herbs or extra red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm alongside any remaining hot honey sauce for dipping, allowing your guests to enjoy a burst of flavor with each crunchy bite. What to Serve with Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Transform your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp into a full-fledged feast with these delightful pairings that balance flavors and textures beautifully. Creamy Coleslaw: This cool and creamy side offers a refreshing contrast to the spicy shrimp, making each bite a joy. Its crunchiness complements the crispy texture of the shrimp perfectly. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and warm on the inside, this buttery delight provides a wonderful vessel to scoop up any leftover hot honey sauce. Crispy French Fries: Golden and fluffy, these fries can soak up the burst of flavors from the shrimp while providing that essential comfort food element. Serve them alongside for a satisfying crunch. Zesty Cucumber Salad: Dressed in a tangy vinaigrette, this salad brings a burst of fresh flavors that cleanse the palate between bites of the rich shrimp. Mango Salsa: Sweet and vibrant, this fresh salsa introduces a tropical brightness that beautifully offsets the heat of the hot honey. Its juicy elements add an exciting twist to your plate. Iced Sweet Tea: A chilled, sweetened tea is a classic companion that offers a refreshing sip, perfect for balancing the spicy notes of the shrimp. It’s an easy and delightful way to cool down the meal. Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a luxurious note with a light chocolate mousse. The sweetness and airy texture serve as a perfect dessert, rounding out your flavor-packed journey. Make Ahead Options These Hot Honey Fried Shrimp are fantastic for meal prep, saving you precious time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the shrimp by rinsing and patting them dry up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring they remain moisture-free for the crispiest results. Additionally, the dry coating mixture can be mixed and stored in an airtight container for 3 days ahead. When you’re ready to serve, simply dredge the prepped shrimp in the flour mixture, dip them into the egg wash, and fry them as directed. Toss them in the hot honey sauce just before serving to keep that heavenly flavor intact. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality Hot Honey Fried Shrimp with minimal effort! Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Variations Feel free to make this delightful dish your own with these exciting twists and swaps! Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing crunchiness. Dairy-Free: Use plant-based milk and vegan butter to make the sauce dairy-free while keeping it creamy and delicious. Spice Level: Scale back on cayenne or hot sauce if you prefer a milder experience, ensuring everyone enjoys these flavorful bites. Shrimp Alternatives: Try this recipe with chicken tenders or tofu for a different protein source that pairs beautifully with the hot honey sauce. Flavor Infusion: Enhance your hot honey sauce by incorporating additional spices like cumin or garlic powder for a unique flavor twist. Tropical Twist: Add chopped pineapple or toasted coconut flakes to the hot honey sauce for a sweet and tropical flair. Vegetable Option: Substitute shrimp with tempura-fried vegetables, like zucchini or bell peppers, for a delicious vegetarian alternative. Fried Rice Side: These shrimp make a fantastic side dish when served alongside Fried Rice Savor, adding a spicy kick to your meal. Let your creativity shine and enjoy the process of customizing this Hot Honey Fried Shrimp recipe to fit your tastes! Expert Tips for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Dry Shrimp First: Ensure shrimp are completely dry before coating to achieve maximum crispiness. Moisture can lead to soggy results! Check Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to maintain oil at 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have one, test the heat by dropping in a bit of flour; it should sizzle immediately. Avoid Overcrowding: Fry shrimp in batches to prevent temperature drops in the oil, which can result in uneven cooking and less crispy coatings. Perfect Coating: For an extra crispy texture, double-dip the shrimp—coat in flour, then egg wash, and back into flour before frying. Taste as You Go: Adjust the spice level of your Hot Honey sauce with more or less cayenne to create a balance that suits your taste buds. Serve Fresh: While these shrimp can be stored for a short time, they are best enjoyed fresh to appreciate the delightful combination of textures and flavors. How to Store and Freeze Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Fridge: Store leftover Hot Honey Fried Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 1-2 days. To maintain crispiness, avoid stacking them. Freezer: Place cooled shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat shrimp in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until crispy again. Avoid microwaving, which can make them soggy. Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best shrimp for this recipe? Absolutely! For Hot Honey Fried Shrimp, opt for large, peeled, and deveined shrimp to ensure succulent bites. Look for shrimp that feel firm and smell fresh. Avoid any that have dark spots or an overpowering odor, as these can indicate they’re not fresh. How should I store leftover Hot Honey Fried Shrimp? Very handy! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to 1-2 days. To maintain their crispiness, try not to stack them. You can place parchment paper between layers to help keep them intact. Can I freeze Hot Honey Fried Shrimp? Yes, you can! First, let the shrimp cool completely. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, and freeze until they’re solid. Once frozen, transfer the shrimp to a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be stored for up to 2 months. For the best results, reheat them straight from the freezer without thawing. How can I restore the crispiness when reheating? Good question! To bring back that delightful crispy texture, reheat your shrimp in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes. This method will help them regain their crunch. Avoid microwaving, as that can make them soggy and chewy. Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies? It’s important to think about those! The Hot Honey Fried Shrimp contains seafood, eggs, and dairy, so it’s best to keep them away from pets that may have allergies to these ingredients. Additionally, for those with shellfish allergies, these shrimp are not suitable. Always be cautious and check ingredient labels if you’re serving to guests with known allergies. What if I don’t have all the ingredients for the coating? No problem at all! If you’re missing any spices, you can experiment with what you have! For example, if you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works fine, or you could add some cayenne for added warmth. The coating can still yield delicious results even with slight modifications. Just trust your taste as you go! Hot Honey Fried Shrimp That Will Spice Up Your Dinner! This Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is a sweet and spicy dish that elevates your dining experience with crispy, golden shrimp in a delightful glaze. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 35 minutes mins Servings: 4 shrimpCourse: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Shrimp1 pound large, peeled and deveined shrimp Use for best seafood flavor.2 large eggs Acts as a binder.1/4 cup milk Can swap with plant-based milk.For the Coating1 cup all-purpose flour Can substitute with gluten-free flour.1 teaspoon garlic powder Adds savory depth.1 teaspoon onion powder Contributes sweetness.1 teaspoon smoked paprika Infuses mild smokiness.1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper Adjust to taste.1 teaspoon salt Enhances overall flavor.1/2 teaspoon black pepper Adds slight heat.For the Hot Honey Sauce1/2 cup honey The heart of the sauce.2 tablespoons hot sauce Adjust spice level.2 tablespoons unsalted butter Adds richness.1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar Balances sweetness.pinch red pepper flakes Adds extra heat.For Frying2 inches vegetable oil Choose high smoke point oil. Equipment small saucepanMixing BowlDeep frying pan or cast-iron skilletkitchen thermometer Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Hot Honey Fried ShrimpIn a small saucepan, combine honey, hot sauce, butter, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Heat over medium heat for 3–5 minutes until melted. Rinse shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. In a separate bowl, beat eggs with milk until smooth. Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep frying pan. Dredge shrimp in the flour mixture, dip in egg wash, then back in flour. Fry shrimp in batches for 2–3 minutes until golden brown. Drain on paper towels. Toss fried shrimp in the hot honey sauce until well-coated. Serve on a platter with extra sauce for dipping. Nutrition Serving: 5shrimpCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 15gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesFor maximum crispiness, ensure shrimp are completely dry before coating. Adjust spice levels of the hot honey sauce to your preference. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
