Savory Honey Cashew Shrimp: Crispy, Sweet Perfection at Home
Last Updated on March 13, 2026 by Alma
Picture this: a busy weeknight and the clock is ticking. I found myself craving something satisfying yet simple, and that s when I discovered the delightful combination of Honey Cashew Shrimp. It s amazing how the warmth of sweet honey mingles with the crunchiness of candied cashews and juicy shrimp, transforming ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dish.
In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser that s not only easy enough for a casual dinner but elegant enough for entertaining guests. The contrasting textures of crispy shrimp and crunchy cashews, enveloped in a creamy honey sauce, create a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent.
Ditch the takeout for this recipe that s brimming with flavor. Let s turn your kitchen into a haven of delectable aromas that will make you forget all about fast food! Trust me, once you try this Honey Cashew Shrimp, you’ll be looking forward to dinner again.
Why will you love Honey Cashew Shrimp?
Simplicity: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is a breeze, perfect for those bustling weeknights.
Sweet & Savory: The harmony of honeyed shrimp and crunchy cashews delivers a mouthwatering experience.
Crispy Texture: Each bite offers a delightful crispiness that elevates your dinner experience.
Versatile Dish: Ideal for dinner parties or a cozy night in, this recipe shines in any setting.
Crowd-Pleaser: Your family and friends will rave about this dish, making it a must-try!
Feel free to pair it with your favorite side or check out more delightful seafood recipes!
Honey Cashew Shrimp Ingredients
Get ready to create a flavor explosion with these delicious ingredients!
For the Honey Sauce
- Water 1/4 cup, helps dissolve sugars for that sweet glaze.
- White Sugar 1/4 cup, balances sweetness with a crisp finish.
- Brown Sugar 1/4 cup, adds depth and a chewy texture to the cashews.
- Honey 2 tablespoons, infuses the dish with a delightful sweetness.
For the Shrimp
- Medium Shrimp 1 pound, the star protein that soaks up all the flavors.
- Kosher Salt to taste, elevates the seasoning of the shrimp.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper to taste, adds a hint of warmth and spice.
For the Coating
- Egg 1 large, serves as a binder for the cornstarch.
- Cornstarch 1/2 cup, creates that irresistibly crispy crunch.
For the Candied Cashews
- Cashews 1 cup, provides a beautiful crunch to each bite.
For the Creamy Drizzle
- Mayonnaise 3 tablespoons, forms the base of the creamy honey sauce.
- Condensed Milk 2 tablespoons, adds richness and enhances the dish.
- Lemon Juice 2 tablespoons, brightens flavors and balances sweetness.
For Frying
- Vegetable Oil 1 cup, necessary for achieving golden-brown crispy shrimp.
Enjoy these ingredients and prepare to make a show-stopping Honey Cashew Shrimp that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
How to Make Honey Cashew Shrimp
Boil Water: Heat 1/4 cup water in a small saucepan over medium heat and bring to a boil. Add the white and brown sugars, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and turns golden.
Add Cashews: Toss in 1 cup of cashews and gently combine them with the sugar mixture. Transfer the candied cashews to a parchment paper-lined plate and set aside to cool completely.
Whisk Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of honey, and 2 tablespoons of condensed milk; set aside for later use.
Prepare Shrimp: Pat dry 1 pound of medium shrimp with paper towels before seasoning them generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Coat Shrimp: In a bowl, dip each shrimp one at a time in a beaten egg, then dredge in 1/2 cup cornstarch, pressing to ensure they are well-coated. Set these aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
Fry Shrimp: Heat 1 cup of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Working in batches, fry the shrimp until golden-brown and crispy, about 1-2 minutes on each side. Transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Combine & Serve: In a large bowl, gently toss the crispy shrimp with the candied cashews and the creamy honey sauce. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor!
Optional: Garnish with extra cashews for an added crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Honey Cashew Shrimp
Prep Like a Pro: Gather all your ingredients before starting. This will streamline your cooking process and help avoid any last-minute scrambling.
Perfectly Crispy: Ensure your shrimp are thoroughly dry before breading. Excess moisture can prevent them from achieving that delightful crispiness that makes this Honey Cashew Shrimp shine.
Oil Temperature Matters: Use a thermometer to check the oil’s heat; it should be around 350 °F (175 °C). Oil that’s too cool can result in greasy shrimp, while too hot can burn them.
Batch It Up: Fry shrimp in small batches to maintain oil temperature. Overcrowding the pan can lead to uneven cooking and limp shrimp.
Serve Fresh: This dish is best enjoyed right after preparation when the shrimp are still hot and crispy. If not serving immediately, keep them warm in a low oven to maintain texture.
Tweak to Taste: Feel free to add your favorite spices or tweak the dipping sauce to suit your palate. Making it your own enhances the joy of this Honey Cashew Shrimp!
Make Ahead Options
These Honey Cashew Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the candied cashews and creamy sauce up to 3 days in advance. Simply follow the directions for making the candied cashews and let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. The sauce can also be mixed and refrigerated overnight to enhance its flavors. When you re ready to serve, pat the shrimp dry, coat them, and fry fresh for that crispy texture, which ensures they are just as delicious as when made on the same day. This way, you ll have a fabulous meal at your fingertips during busy weeknights!
How to Store and Freeze Honey Cashew Shrimp
Fridge: Store leftover Honey Cashew Shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will help maintain the flavors and crunch as much as possible.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the shrimp (without the sauce) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge before frying again to regain that crispy texture.
Reheating: Reheat leftover Honey Cashew Shrimp in an oven at 350 °F (175 °C) for about 10-15 minutes to refresh the crispiness. Avoid the microwave, as it can make them soggy.
Sauce Storage: Store the creamy honey sauce in a separate container in the fridge for up to a week. You can drizzle it fresh over the shrimp after reheating for added flavor!
What to Serve with Honey Cashew Shrimp?
Create a vibrant and flavorful meal that the whole family will adore with these delicious pairings.
Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy texture of jasmine rice complements each juicy shrimp bite, soaking up that delightful honey sauce.
Garlic Broccoli: This lightly saut ed side provides a fresh and crunchy contrast, balancing the sweetness of the cashews with a burst of garlicky flavor.
Crispy Spring Rolls: These delightful bites add a crunchy texture and can be filled with your choice of veggies, making them a perfect appetizer to start the meal.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with lime zest and mint will add brightness and a cool note that beautifully contrasts the warm shrimp.
Mango Salsa: Sweet and tangy mango salsa can be a delightful topping, enhancing the overall experience with vibrant colors and refreshing fruitiness.
Chardonnay: This wine, with its rich, buttery notes, pairs wonderfully with shrimp, while its acidity cuts through the sweetness, creating a perfect balance.
Honey Cashew Shrimp Variations
Feel free to play around with this recipe and make it your own with these exciting twists!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute cornstarch for gluten-free bread crumbs for a delightful crispy texture.
- Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha or chili flakes to the creamy sauce for a zesty heat.
- Honey Alternative: Use maple syrup instead of honey for a unique flavor that still brings sweetness.
- Nut-Free: Swap cashews with sunflower seeds for a satisfying crunch that s safe for those with nut allergies.
- Veggie Version: Replace shrimp with firm tofu, and fry until golden for a vegetarian delight that s equally delicious.
- Citrus Burst: Incorporate orange juice into the honey sauce for a vibrant, zesty flavor that brightens the dish.
- Herb Infusion: Toss some chopped fresh cilantro or basil in with the shrimp for a fresh, herbal aroma that elevates the meal.
- Tropical Twist: Mix in some pineapple chunks with the shrimp for a sweet and tangy flavor explosion that feels like a vacation on your plate!
Honey Cashew Shrimp Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best shrimp for Honey Cashew Shrimp?
Absolutely! Look for medium shrimp that are firm and have a slight bounce when pressed. Fresh shrimp should have a clean, briny smell, and avoid any that have a strong fishy odor or dark spots on their shells.
How should I store leftovers of Honey Cashew Shrimp?
Store any leftover Honey Cashew Shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps preserve the flavors, but keep in mind that the shrimp may lose some of their crispiness over time.
Can I freeze Honey Cashew Shrimp?
Yes! You can freeze the shrimp (without the sauce) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then fry again for a few minutes to regain that delicious crispy texture.
What if my shrimp turn out soggy?
Very! The most likely issue is excess moisture. Make sure to pat the shrimp dry with paper towels before seasoning and breading. Additionally, ensure the oil is hot enough before frying around 350 °F (175 °C). Frying in small batches helps maintain the oil temperature, leading to perfectly crispy shrimp.
Is there a way to make Honey Cashew Shrimp healthier?
Absolutely! You can use a light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt instead of regular mayonnaise in the creamy honey sauce for a healthier twist. Also, consider shallow frying instead of deep frying to reduce the amount of oil absorbed by the shrimp.
Can I make Honey Cashew Shrimp for my pets?
It’s best to avoid giving Honey Cashew Shrimp to pets. The dish contains seasonings and bound ingredients like mayonnaise that may not be suitable for them. Always stick to pet-friendly treats for your furry friends!