Hot Honey Fried Shrimp – Crispy, Sweet, and Spicy Comfort Food

Introduction

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is a bold, flavor-packed dish that perfectly balances crispy texture with sweet heat. I first made this recipe when I wanted something indulgent but quick, and it instantly became a repeat favorite. The shrimp are coated in a light, crunchy batter and fried until golden, then finished with a drizzle of warm hot honey that clings beautifully to every bite. What makes this recipe special is the contrast: the crisp exterior, juicy shrimp inside, and the sticky glaze that delivers both sweetness and a gentle kick. I tested this recipe with different heat levels, and it is easy to adjust depending on your preference. Whether served as an appetizer, main dish, or tucked into tacos, hot honey fried shrimp feels restaurant-worthy while remaining easy enough to make at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is quick, satisfying, and full of bold flavor. The shrimp cook fast, the coating stays crisp, and the hot honey adds a unique sweet-spicy finish that elevates a classic fried shrimp dish.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Shrimp
Large shrimp are ideal for frying. They stay juicy inside while developing a crisp exterior.

Flour
Flour forms the base of the coating, helping the batter adhere evenly to the shrimp.

Cornstarch
Cornstarch adds extra crispness to the fried shrimp and keeps the coating light.

Eggs
Eggs help bind the coating and create a sturdy, crunchy crust.

Milk
Milk loosens the batter and ensures a smooth, even coating.

Garlic Powder
Garlic powder adds savory depth without overpowering the shrimp.

Paprika
Paprika provides mild warmth and enhances color.

Salt
Salt seasons the shrimp and coating, balancing the sweetness of the hot honey.

Black Pepper
Black pepper adds subtle heat and complexity.

Oil
A neutral oil is used for frying, allowing the shrimp to cook evenly and crisp properly.

Honey
Honey forms the sweet base of the glaze, creating a sticky, glossy finish.

Hot Sauce
Hot sauce adds heat to the honey, allowing you to control the spice level.

Red Pepper Flakes
Red pepper flakes enhance the heat and add texture to the glaze.

Directions

Begin by patting the shrimp dry and seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. In one bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. In a second bowl, whisk eggs and milk until smooth.

Dip each shrimp into the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly in the flour mixture. Set aside while heating the oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, fry the shrimp in batches, cooking until golden brown and crisp on both sides. Remove and drain on paper towels.

In a small saucepan, gently warm the honey with hot sauce and red pepper flakes until combined. Drizzle the hot honey over the fried shrimp just before serving, tossing lightly if desired.

Equipment needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.

knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves four people. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, and frying time is approximately 10 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Fried shrimp are best enjoyed fresh. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispness, avoiding the microwave.

Variations and Customizations

This recipe is easy to customize. You can adjust the heat by adding more or less hot sauce to the honey. For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs in the coating. If you prefer a lighter option, air-fry the shrimp instead of deep frying. Hot honey fried shrimp also work well in sliders, tacos, or over a fresh salad. For a citrus twist, add a squeeze of lemon juice to the honey glaze just before serving.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp provides protein from the shrimp and energy from the crispy coating. As a fried dish with a sweet glaze, it is best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced meal.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Oil Temperature
Maintain consistent heat to avoid greasy shrimp.

Batch Frying
Fry in small batches to keep the oil hot.

Glaze Timing
Drizzle hot honey just before serving for best texture.

Shrimp Size
Use large shrimp for juicier results.

FAQs

What size shrimp should I use?

Large or extra-large shrimp work best for frying.

Can I make this less spicy?

Yes, reduce the hot sauce or red pepper flakes.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before coating.

What oil is best for frying?

Neutral oils with high smoke points work well.

Can I air-fry this recipe?

Yes, spray lightly with oil and cook until crisp.

How do I keep shrimp crispy?

Serve immediately and avoid covering tightly.

Can I make the hot honey ahead of time?

Yes, reheat gently before using.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Coleslaw, fries, or rice complement it well.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Raw shrimp are recommended for best texture.

Is this dish good for appetizers?

Yes, it works perfectly as a party appetizer.

Conclusion

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is a crispy, flavorful dish that delivers the perfect balance of sweet and spicy. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, it is an irresistible recipe that brings bold comfort food straight to your table.

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