No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies Recipe

The Dreamiest No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies Recipe

Sweet-toothed dessert lovers will adore these dreamy no-bake coconut pecan praline cookies that require zero oven time.

Minimal ingredients guarantee maximum flavor in this simple treat.

Crunchy pecans and silky coconut blend perfectly with rich caramel undertones.

Rich maple syrup provides natural sweetness without overwhelming the delicate balance.

Minimal kitchen skills help you create these decadent no-fuss cookies in minutes.

Cool and set these delightful morsels for an irresistible snack that everyone will crave.

You won’t believe how easy it is to craft such a spectacular dessert!

How to Store No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies

  • Refrigerate: Store cookies in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers. Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days, maintaining their crisp texture and preventing moisture buildup.
  • Freeze: Wrap individual cookies in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe containers. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Thaw at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before enjoying.
  • Counter Storage: Place in sealed container away from direct sunlight and heat. Consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness and flavor preservation.
  • Room Temperature: Keep in cool, dry area with loose lid. Best consumed within 48 hours to prevent potential sugar crystallization and maintain original soft, chewy consistency.

FAQs

  • Are these cookies healthy?

While delicious, these cookies are a sweet treat with sugar, butter, and nuts. They’re best enjoyed in moderation as an occasional dessert.

  • Can I substitute ingredients if I don't have everything?

Yes, you can swap evaporated milk with heavy cream, use different nuts like walnuts instead of pecans, or use sweetened coconut if unsweetened isn’t available.

  • How do I prevent the mixture from burning while cooking?

Stir continuously and use medium-high heat. Watch the mixture closely and remove from heat immediately after the 3-minute boil to prevent scorching.

  • Do I need any special equipment to make these cookies?

No special equipment is required. You’ll just need a saucepan, wooden spoon or spatula, measuring cups, and baking sheets lined with wax paper.

Why No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies Are a Quick Delight

  • Breeze Through Preparation: No oven needed, making this recipe super simple and quick to make with minimal kitchen equipment.
  • Indulge Without Stress: Simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, reducing shopping time and complexity.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, and spontaneous dessert cravings with its rich, sweet flavor profile that appeals to all ages.
  • Customize with Ease: Swap nuts or add extra ingredients to make the recipe uniquely yours, offering flexibility for creative home bakers.

Ingredients for No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies

Base Ingredients:
  • Granulated Sugar: A primary sweetener that helps create the praline's signature sweet flavor.
  • Brown Sugar: Adds depth and rich caramel notes to the cookie mixture.
  • Evaporated Milk: Provides creaminess and helps bind the ingredients together.
  • Corn Syrup: Ensures a smooth texture and prevents sugar crystallization.
  • Unsalted Butter: Contributes richness and helps create a smooth, glossy base.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, aromatic flavor to the cookie mixture.
  • Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Texture Ingredients:
  • Shredded Coconut, Pecans: Provide a delightful crunch and nutty texture to the no-bake cookies.

How to Prepare No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies

Step 1: Create Caramel Base

Grab a large saucepan and toss in these delightful ingredients:
  • Granulated sugar
  • Brown sugar
  • Evaporated milk
  • Corn syrup
  • Unsalted butter

Crank up the heat to medium-high and stir like crazy until everything melts into a smooth, dreamy mixture.

Step 2: Bring to Boiling Point

Let the mixture bubble and dance for exactly 3 minutes.

Keep stirring to prevent any sneaky burning at the bottom of the pan. Once time’s up, pull the pan off the heat.

Step 3: Add Flavor Enhancers

Splash in vanilla extract and sprinkle salt into the caramel mixture. Give it a quick whirl to blend everything together perfectly.

Step 4: Fold in Crunchy Goodness

Toss in these delectable mix-ins:
  • Shredded coconut
  • Chopped pecans

Stir the ingredients for 3-4 minutes. You’ll notice the mixture starts to cool and get slightly thicker – that’s exactly what you want!

Step 5: Shape Your Cookies

Grab a tablespoon or small cookie scoop. Dollop the mixture onto wax paper-lined baking sheets.

Create little mounds of sugary heaven.

Step 6: Let Cookies Set

Leave the cookies at room temperature to firm up.

Want them faster? Pop them in the freezer.

Once they’re solid and cool, they’re ready to devour!

Pro Tips for No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies

  • Select a sturdy saucepan with thick bottom to prevent burning or uneven heating during caramel preparation.
  • Monitor temperature carefully while cooking to achieve perfect praline consistency without scorching sugars.
  • Allow cooling time between stirring to help cookies set properly and develop rich, complex flavor profile.
  • Store cookies in airtight container at room temperature for maximum freshness, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  • For gluten-free version, verify all ingredients are certified gluten-free, especially corn syrup and vanilla extract.

Variations of No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies

  • Gluten-Free Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies: Replace corn syrup with maple syrup and use certified gluten-free oats as a potential binding alternative.
  • Vegan Tropical Cookies: Swap butter with coconut oil, use coconut cream instead of evaporated milk, and add chopped macadamia nuts for extra richness.
  • Low-Sugar Nutty Cluster Treats: Substitute granulated and brown sugars with monk fruit sweetener and reduce overall sugar content while maintaining similar texture.
  • Nut-Free Alternative Cookies: Replace pecans with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds, keeping coconut as the primary textural ingredient for those with nut allergies.

Pairing Ideas for No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies

  • Creamy bourbon-based cocktail perfectly complements the rich praline notes, enhancing the dessert's caramel undertones.
  • Strong espresso or dark roast coffee creates a delightful contrast with the sweet, nutty cookie, balancing the praline's intense sweetness.
  • Late harvest Riesling or Moscato d'Asti offers a light, honeyed sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the coconut and pecan flavors.
  • Amaretto or hazelnut liqueur echoes the pecan's warmth, creating a luxurious flavor connection that deepens the cookie's complexity.
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No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies Recipe

No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies Recipe


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4.8 from 10 reviews

  • Total Time: 18 minutes
  • Yield: 24 1x

Description

Scrumptious no-bake coconut pecan praline cookies blend Southern charm with sweet simplicity. Creamy caramel, toasted pecans, and shredded coconut create an irresistible treat you cannot resist savoring.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup light corn syrup
  • 1/2 cup evaporated milk
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
  • 2 cups pecans
  • 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions

  1. In a large saucepan, blend granulated sugar, brown sugar, evaporated milk, corn syrup, and unsalted butter over medium-high heat, stirring consistently until smoothly integrated.
  2. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil and maintain for exactly 3 minutes, then remove from heat source.
  3. Swiftly incorporate vanilla extract and salt, mixing thoroughly to distribute evenly.
  4. Fold in shredded coconut and pecans, stirring continuously for 3-4 minutes as the mixture gradually cools and thickens.
  5. Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, drop portions of the mixture onto wax paper-lined baking sheets, ensuring uniform spacing.
  6. Let cookies set at room temperature for approximately 30-45 minutes, or accelerate the process by placing them in the refrigerator until firm and fully solidified.
  7. Once set, the no-bake coconut pecan praline cookies are ready to enjoy, offering a delectable blend of sweet, nutty flavors.

Notes

  • Toast pecans lightly before adding to enhance their nutty flavor and provide a deeper, more complex taste profile.
  • Use parchment paper instead of wax paper for easier cookie removal and a cleaner presentation.
  • Adjust sugar quantities slightly for a less sweet version by reducing granulated sugar by 2-3 tablespoons.
  • Control cookie thickness by using a uniform-sized scoop or spoon to ensure consistent texture and cooking time.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3 minutes
  • Category: Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: Southern American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 24
  • Calories: 209
  • Sugar: 19 g
  • Sodium: 59 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 23 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 15 mg
Mike Reynolds

Mike Reynolds

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Farm-to-table cuisine, Seasonal recipe development, Sustainable cooking techniques, Food photography

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College (A-B Tech)
Associate Degree in Culinary Arts

Mike studied culinary arts with a strong focus on farm-to-table principles and sustainable cooking. His training emphasized the importance of fresh, local ingredients and environmentally responsible practices in the kitchen.


Mike’s food journey began deep in the Blue Ridge Mountains, where weekends at farmers’ markets and home-cooked meals sparked a lifelong obsession with simple, seasonal eating.
After earning his Associate Degree in Culinary Arts from Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, he set out to bring farm-to-table cooking into everyday kitchens, without the fuss.
Mike’s philosophy is all about keeping it fresh, unfussy, and full of heart. When he’s not crafting new single-serving recipes, he’s hiking mountain trails, chatting with local farmers, or experimenting with wild ingredients in his backyard kitchen.

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