When I need a little indulgence, this copycat panda express honey walnut shrimp recipe is my go-to pick! It’s a delightful mix of crispy tempura shrimp tossed in a sweet honey sauce and topped with candied walnuts. I can’t help but feel a sense of warmth and joy whenever I serve this dish, whether it’s for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Plus, it’s simpler to make than you might think! Let me show you how to bring this beloved Panda Express favorite right into your kitchen.

What is copycat panda express honey walnut shrimp?

Copycat panda express honey walnut shrimp is a delightful dish featuring crispy shrimp coated in a light tempura batter, then tossed in a sweet, sticky honey sauce and topped with crunchy, sweetened walnuts. What makes this dish special is its perfect balance of flavors and textures—the savory shrimp contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the honey and the crunch of the walnuts. It’s a wonderful combination that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to make at home. Plus, you can avoid those extra takeout costs while enjoying a restaurant favorite right in your kitchen!

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Small saucepan
Medium sized pot
Whisk
Fork or pig tail flipper
Large spoon
Dish for drying walnuts
Serving plate
Optional: knife for slicing scallions

Ingredients

1 cup water
2/3 cup white sugar
1/2 cup walnut halves
4 egg whites
2/3 cup cornstarch
1/4 cup mayonnaise (I like Hellmann’s)
1 pound large shrimp (18-20 count, peeled and deveined)
2 tablespoons honey (local, if possible)
1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk (Eagle Brand is a favorite)
1 cup vegetable oil for frying (canola oil is a good substitute)
Scallions for topping (optional)

How to Make copycat panda express honey walnut shrimp?

Step 1:

In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of water, 2/3 cup of white sugar, and 1/2 cup of walnut halves. Bring to a boil.

Step 2:

Boil for 2 minutes, then remove the walnuts and place them on a dish to dry.

Step 3:

In a bowl, whisk 4 egg whites until foamy, then add 2/3 cup of cornstarch and whisk until combined.

Step 4:

Add 1 pound of peeled and deveined large shrimp to the batter, coating each shrimp lightly.

Step 5:

Heat 1 cup of vegetable oil in a medium pot over medium-high heat (about 350°F).

Step 6:

Fry the coated shrimp in the hot oil for 4-5 minutes until light golden brown.

Step 7:

In a separate bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of honey, 1/4 cup of mayonnaise, and 1 tablespoon of sweetened condensed milk. Whisk until mixed.

Step 8:

Remove the fried shrimp from the oil and add them to the sauce, mixing to coat well.

Step 9:

Place the coated shrimp on a serving plate and top with the candied walnuts.

Step 10:

Serve immediately with steamed rice. This is the last step.

copycat panda express honey walnut shrimp recipe

Some Tips!

For the best crunch, ensure your oil is hot enough before frying the shrimp; around 350 degrees works perfectly!
If you’re short on time, you can make the candied walnuts ahead of time and store them in an airtight container.
Don’t skip the scallions on top—they add a nice pop of color and a fresh flavor that balances the sweetness!

How to Store Leftovers?

Should you end up with extras, I recommend storing the copycat panda express honey walnut shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge. They’re best enjoyed within a day or two, but you can reheat them in the oven for that crispy texture again. Just pop them in at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes, and they’ll taste almost like fresh! If you’re interested in making this dish from scratch, consider following the honey walnut shrimp cooking instructions to ensure you achieve that perfect balance of crispy shrimp and sweet, sticky glaze. Don’t forget to toast the walnuts in advance for added crunch and flavor, which elevates the dish even further. Once you master this recipe, you’ll find it easy to whip up whenever you’re craving a taste of Panda Express at home!

What to Eat with copycat panda express honey walnut shrimp?

If you’re whipping up a batch of copycat panda express honey walnut shrimp, why not add a delightful Easy Spinach Arugula Salad? It’s light and refreshing, and you can toss in some fresh herbs to brighten everything up. Trust me, this combination will elevate your meal!

Conclusion

You’ve done an incredible job whipping up this delightful copycat panda express honey walnut shrimp! It just goes to show that delicious meals don’t have to be complicated—this recipe is proof that you can impress with something simple yet flavorful. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to bring a taste of Panda Express right to your kitchen!

FAQ

Can I use a different type of nut or omit?

Yes, you can omit the nuts entirely or substitute with seeds like sunflower seeds for a nut-free option!

Can I use a different type of oil for frying?

You can use oils like peanut or canola for frying! They add great flavor and have high smoke points. Enjoy your cooking!

Can I use a different sweetener, like agave or maple syrup?

Yes, you can substitute honey with agave or maple syrup for a different flavor! Adjust the amount to taste.

Can I use a different type of shrimp, like medium or smaller sizes?

Yes, you can use smaller shrimp! Just reduce the cooking time by 1-2 minutes for optimal results. Enjoy!

Can I make this recipe in an air fryer instead of deep frying?

Yes, you can! Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Lightly coat the shrimp with oil and air fry for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway. Adjust time as needed for crispiness. Enjoy!