Name: Crispy Hot Honey Fried Shrimp for a Sweet and Spicy Treat
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Large Raw Shrimp (peeled, deveined, and tail-on); 1 cup Buttermilk (helps tenderize the shrimp); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (ensures a crispy exterior); 1 teaspoon Paprika (infuses a lovely flavor); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (enhances overall taste); ½ teaspoon Onion Powder (adds savory notes); ½ teaspoon Kosher Salt (essential for enhancing flavor); ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper (provides a subtle kick); ¼ teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (adds additional heat); Enough Vegetable Oil (for frying); ½ cup Hot Honey (marries sweetness and heat); To sprinkle Chopped Parsley (adds a fresh touch)

As I pulled the first batch of Hot Honey Fried Shrimp from the bubbling pot, the mouthwatering aroma quickly enveloped my kitchen. A blend of sweet and spicy, this standout dish transforms any gathering into a culinary celebration. You won’t just enjoy crispy shrimp; you’ll discover how the tantalizing drizzle of homemade hot honey perfectly elevates this recipe. Not only is it a delightfully crunchy appetizer that’s sure to impress, but it also doubles as a show-stopping main course for a cozy dinner at home. Perfect for those evenings when you crave something comforting yet exciting, this Hot Honey Fried Shrimp will quickly become a favorite in your repertoire. Ready to dive into the details and take your taste buds on a rollercoaster ride?

Why is this shrimp dish irresistible?

Crispy Texture: Each bite provides a satisfying crunch that’s simply addicting.
Sweet and Spicy: The homemade hot honey adds a unique flavor twist, balancing sweetness with just the right amount of heat.
Versatile Serving: Enjoy these shrimp as a delightful appetizer or a show-stopping main course—perfect for any occasion.
Quick and Simple: With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Everyone loves shrimp, and with this recipe, they’ll savor your tasty creation long after the last bite! If you’re looking for a side to complement this dish, try serving it with Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Sausage for an unforgettable meal.

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Ingredients

For the Shrimp
• Large Raw Shrimp – 1 pound; these will be the star of your dish—peeled, deveined, and tail-on makes for easy grabbing.
For the Buttermilk Marinade
• Buttermilk – 1 cup (245 g); helps tenderize the shrimp and adds a tangy flavor—easily made at home if you don’t have it on hand.
For the Coating
• All-Purpose Flour – 1 cup (125 g); ensures a crispy exterior; self-rising flour can be a great substitute if that’s what you have.
• Paprika – 1 teaspoon; infuses a lovely flavor and vibrant color.
• Garlic Powder – 1 teaspoon; enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• Onion Powder – ½ teaspoon; adds savory notes that complement the shrimp beautifully.
• Kosher Salt – ½ teaspoon; essential for enhancing flavor.
• Black Pepper – ¼ teaspoon; provides a subtle kick.
• Cayenne Pepper – ¼ teaspoon; adds additional heat—feel free to adjust this to taste!
For Frying
• Vegetable Oil – Enough for frying; necessary to achieve that golden, crispy perfection for your shrimp.
For the Glaze
• Hot Honey – ½ cup (170 g); this is the key ingredient that marries sweetness and heat for your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp.
For Garnish
• Chopped Parsley – To sprinkle on top; adds a fresh touch and a pop of color to your gorgeous dish.

Dive into the joy of cooking with this delightful recipe that turns ordinary shrimp into an extraordinary culinary experience!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp
In a medium bowl, add the peeled and deveined large shrimp and cover them completely with 1 cup of buttermilk. Let the shrimp marinate for at least 15 minutes in the refrigerator. This step is crucial as it tenderizes the shrimp and enhances flavor, ensuring each bite of your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp will be delectably juicy.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating
While the shrimp are marinating, in another bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon each of paprika and garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of onion powder, ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper. This blend will create a richly flavored coating that clings beautifully to the shrimp as they fry, ensuring a crispy exterior.

Step 3: Dredge the Shrimp
After the shrimp have marinated, take them out of the refrigerator. Allow any excess buttermilk to drip off before dredging each shrimp in the seasoned flour mixture. Make sure each piece is evenly coated for that perfect crunch in your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp. Set the coated shrimp aside on a plate while you prepare for frying.

Step 4: Heat the Oil
In a large, deep pot or heavy skillet, pour enough vegetable oil to cover about 2 inches of the bottom. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C), using a kitchen thermometer for accuracy. This temperature is vital for achieving the golden and crispy texture that makes your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp so irresistible.

Step 5: Fry the Shrimp
Once the oil is hot, carefully lower the coated shrimp into the oil in small batches—avoid overcrowding. Fry the shrimp for 2-3 minutes, turning them occasionally until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them as they cook; they should sizzle delightfully and turn a beautiful golden hue, signaling they’re ready to come out.

Step 6: Drain the Fried Shrimp
Using a slotted spoon, gently transfer the fried shrimp to a baking sheet lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. This step helps keep your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp crispy, so be sure to let them drain for a minute or two. While they’re still warm, you can drizzle them with your hot honey for an irresistible sweet and spicy kick.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Plate the crispy Hot Honey Fried Shrimp and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a vibrant finish. The aromatic scent mingling with the sweet and spicy glaze will tantalize everyone at the table. Serve them hot, perhaps with extra hot honey on the side for dipping, ensuring your guests experience every delicious bite!

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists that will empower your kitchen creativity and tantalize your taste buds!

Maple Syrup Swap: Replace hot honey with maple syrup for a distinct sweetness that adds a unique twist.
Frozen Shrimp Option: Use frozen shrimp; just ensure they are fully thawed and dried before frying for the best results.
Thicker Glaze: For a thicker hot honey coating, simmer the honey on low heat until it reduces slightly before drizzling.
Spicy Kick: If you love heat, add crushed red pepper flakes to the hot honey to elevate the spice level even more.
Coconut Crust: Incorporate shredded coconut into the flour mixture for a tropical flavor and crunchy texture that surprises with each bite.
Zesty Lime: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the hot shrimp as a bright finish that complements the sweetness of the honey beautifully.
Garlic Butter Drizzle: For a rich and savory addition, drizzle garlic butter over the shrimp right before serving.
Honey Cookies Feature: Pair your dish with homemade Honey Cookies Chewy for a delightful dessert to round off your meal.

Embrace the flexibility of this recipe and let your palate lead the way in making each experience your own!

How to Store and Freeze Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Fridge: Store any leftover Hot Honey Fried Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. Ensure they are fully cooled before sealing to maintain crispiness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooled shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating: To restore the crispy texture, reheat the frozen shrimp in an oven or air fryer at 350°F until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.

Avoid Room Temperature: Do not leave cooked shrimp at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth; it’s best to refrigerate or freeze as soon as possible.

Make Ahead Options

These Hot Honey Fried Shrimp are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the week! You can marinate the shrimp in buttermilk up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring they are tender and flavorful. Additionally, you can mix the seasoned flour coating and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Hot Honey Fried Shrimp, simply dredge the marinated shrimp in the prepared flour mixture, fry them as instructed, and drizzle with hot honey for that sweet and spicy finish. This way, you’ll have delightful, crispy shrimp ready to impress with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Nothing complements the sweet and spicy flavor of Hot Honey Fried Shrimp quite like these delicious side dishes.

Creamy Coleslaw: This cool, crunchy side adds refreshing contrast, balancing the heat of the shrimp and enhancing your meal experience.
Garlic Butter Rice: Fluffy and fragrant, this rice side brings a rich, buttery flavor that soaks up any delicious leftover hot honey.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, sweet corn adds a juicy pop to your plate, perfectly harmonizing with the savory shrimp. Enjoy it slathered in butter with a sprinkle of chili powder for extra zing.
Tortilla Chips with Salsa: Crisp tortilla chips provide an exciting crunch, while tangy salsa lifts the meal with zesty freshness and vibrant colors.
Zucchini Fries: Lightly battered and baked, these crispy veggies are a health-conscious alternative that pairs wonderfully with the shrimp’s bold flavors.
Pineapple Salsa: The natural sweetness and acidity of pineapple salsa contrast beautifully with the spicy shrimp, creating delightful bites with each forkful.
Sparkling Lemonade: A zesty non-alcoholic drink that refreshes and cleanses the palate, making every shrimp morsel even more enjoyable.
Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet treat matches the tropical theme and offers a satisfying final note to your delicious meal.

Helpful Tricks for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Oil Temperature Check: Ensure your oil is heated to 350°F before frying. If it’s too cool, the shrimp will absorb oil and become greasy instead of crispy.
Batch Frying: Fry the shrimp in small batches to avoid overcrowding. This allows for even cooking and maintains the sizzling sound, crucial for perfect Hot Honey Fried Shrimp texture.
Marination Time: Don’t skip on marinating the shrimp in buttermilk for at least 15 minutes. It not only tenderizes the shrimp but also adds delightful flavor.
Dredging Technique: Make sure to shake off excess buttermilk before dredging in flour. A perfect coating means no clumps and a beautiful crunch!
Serving Fresh: These shrimp are best enjoyed hot out of the fryer. If you have leftovers, reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore their delightful crispiness.

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, select large, raw shrimp. Look for firm, glossy shells without dark spots, indicating freshness. Ensure they are peeled, deveined, and tail-on for easy handling. If you have the option between fresh or frozen, fresh will provide the best taste, but don’t hesitate to use frozen if they’re more convenient—as long as they’re properly thawed, they’ll still be delicious!

What’s the best way to store leftover Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?
Very! Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Make sure they have cooled completely before sealing to minimize moisture, which can lead to sogginess. To reheat, I recommend using an oven or air fryer for about 10-15 minutes at 350°F to bring back that crispiness.

Can I freeze Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?
Absolutely! To freeze, first allow the shrimp to cool completely. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, ensuring they aren’t touching. Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours, before transferring them to a freezer bag. This method helps prevent them from sticking together. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, reheat them in the oven or air fryer straight from the freezer for that crispy delight!

What if my shrimp turn out soggy after frying?
Don’t worry—it happens to the best cooks! If your shrimp are soggy, it might be due to overcrowding in the frying pan, causing them to steam instead of fry. Always fry in small batches and ensure your oil reaches 350°F before adding the shrimp. If you’ve already fried them and they’re not crisp, try placing them on a wire rack in the oven at 400°F for a few minutes to help restore the crunch.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! To adapt this Hot Honey Fried Shrimp recipe for a gluten-free diet, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just be sure it contains xanthan gum, which helps maintain the proper texture. Also, double-check the label on your hot honey to ensure it’s gluten-free, as some brands may use ingredients that contain gluten.

Is there a way to adjust the heat level in the hot honey?
Very! If you prefer a milder heat, simply reduce the cayenne pepper in the coating or use less hot honey when drizzling on the shrimp. Alternatively, you can mix in a bit of regular honey with the hot honey to tone down the spice. For those who like it spicy, feel free to add more cayenne or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the hot honey for an extra kick!