No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe

Quick No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe for Sweet Cravings

Sweet Southern kitchens buzz with excitement over these no bake pecan coconut praline cookies that melt in your mouth with rich, buttery goodness.

Generations of cooks have perfected this delectable treat passed down through cherished family recipes.

Crisp pecans and silky coconut create a decadent combination that dance across your taste buds.

Each bite promises a luxurious blend of creamy caramel and nutty crunch without ever touching an oven.

The simple ingredients come together effortlessly, making these cookies a quick dessert solution for busy home bakers.

Minimal effort yields maximum flavor in this classic Southern-style confection.

You’ll fall in love with these irresistible cookies that are sure to become a new favorite in your dessert repertoire.

Secrets For The Best No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies

  • Stir constantly and watch the heat carefully to avoid scorching the praline mixture, which can create a bitter taste and ruin the entire batch of cookies.
  • Let the mixture cool for exactly 4 minutes while stirring to achieve the perfect consistency that allows cookies to hold their shape without spreading.
  • Use fresh pecans and unsweetened coconut for the most robust flavor and best texture in your no-bake cookies.
  • Use parchment paper instead of wax paper for easier cookie removal and a cleaner presentation of your praline treats.
  • Work in a cool, dry environment to help cookies set quickly and maintain their ideal texture without becoming sticky or soft.

Inventive Takes On No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies

  • Gluten-Free Praline Delight: Replace corn syrup with maple syrup and use gluten-free certified ingredients for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Vegan Nutty Coconut Clusters: Swap butter with coconut oil, use coconut milk instead of evaporated milk, and add dairy-free chocolate chips for extra richness.
  • Low-Sugar Nutty Treat: Substitute sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia, reducing overall sugar content while maintaining sweet flavor.
  • Chocolate Pecan Dream: Mix in dark chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over cookies for a decadent chocolate-enhanced version.

No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Serving Suggestions

  • Cozy Dessert Pairing: Serve these praline cookies alongside a warm mug of vanilla chai tea or rich coffee for a delightful afternoon treat that enhances the nutty, sweet flavors.
  • Festive Gift Idea: Package these cookies in cute mason jars or decorative tins with ribbons, creating a homemade gift perfect for holidays, birthdays, or special occasions that will surprise and delight friends and family.
  • Southern Style Presentation: Arrange cookies on a vintage ceramic plate with a small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, highlighting the classic Southern dessert tradition and adding a creamy contrast to the crunchy cookie texture.
  • Elegant Dessert Platter: Create a beautiful dessert board with these praline cookies, adding dark chocolate pieces, fresh berries, and toasted coconut flakes to elevate the visual appeal and provide complementary flavors.

Easy Ways To Store No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies

  • Keep no-bake pecan coconut praline cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Cool temperatures help maintain their delightful texture and prevent them from becoming too soft.
  • Place cookies in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They'll stay fresh for 2-3 months when properly sealed. Thaw at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving.
  • If enjoying within 2-3 days, store cookies in a sealed container at room temperature. Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources to preserve their crisp praline consistency.
  • Always place a paper towel in the storage container to absorb excess moisture, which helps prevent the cookies from becoming sticky or losing their delicate crunch.

FAQs

  • Are these cookies similar to traditional pralines?

These cookies combine the classic praline flavor with a no-bake cookie technique, offering a unique twist on the Southern dessert by adding coconut and creating a cookie-like form instead of the traditional candy.

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

You’ll only need a large saucepan, a wooden spoon or spatula, and wax paper or parchment paper. No mixer, oven, or complicated tools are required for this simple recipe.

  • Can I substitute ingredients if I don't have exactly what the recipe calls for?

You can swap evaporated milk with heavy cream, use light corn syrup instead of dark, and replace pecans with other nuts like walnuts. However, these substitutions might slightly alter the final taste and texture.

What’s Special About No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies

  • Quickly Craft Sweet Treats: No baking required, making these pecan coconut praline cookies a breeze to prepare with minimal kitchen effort and zero oven time.
  • Customize Your Comfort Dessert: Flexible recipe allows easy ingredient swaps or additions, letting home bakers personalize the cookies to match family preferences or pantry supplies.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Texture Adventure: Combining crunchy pecans, chewy coconut, and smooth praline creates a delightful sensory experience that appeals to multiple taste preferences in one delectable bite.
  • Stress-Free Dessert Solution: Perfect for last-minute gatherings, potlucks, or unexpected sweet cravings, these cookies come together quickly with simple ingredients most kitchens already have on hand.

Must-Haves For No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies

Base Ingredients:
  • Sugar: The primary sweetener that forms the foundation of the praline mixture.
  • Evaporated Milk: Provides a rich and creamy texture to the cookie mixture.
  • Corn Syrup: Helps create a smooth and glossy consistency for the praline.
  • Butter: Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together.
Nut and Coconut Mix-Ins:
  • Pecans, Coconut: Add delightful crunch and tropical flavor to the cookies.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Vanilla Extract: Brings a warm and classic flavor that complements the sweet praline base.
Preparation Accessories:
  • Wax Paper, Parchment Paper: Used for forming and setting the no-bake cookies.

Step By Step No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Praline Base

Create the rich foundation by combining sugar, evaporated milk, corn syrup, and butter in a large saucepan.

Stir the ingredients gently over medium heat, allowing them to meld together smoothly.

Watch as the mixture transforms into a silky, golden liquid.

Step 2: Cook Praline Mixture

Let the mixture reach a rolling boil, then maintain steady heat for exactly 3 minutes.

Keep stirring constantly to prevent burning and ensure a perfect caramel-like consistency.

The bubbling mixture will start to develop a deep, rich aroma.

Step 3: Incorporate Delicious Mix-Ins

Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly fold in:
  • Chopped pecans
  • Shredded coconut
  • Vanilla extract

Stir vigorously for about 4 minutes, coating every morsel with the luscious praline sauce.

The mixture will begin to thicken and become glossy.

Step 4: Shape Delightful Cookies

Using a spoon, dollop the warm mixture onto wax paper or parchment paper.

Create rustic, free-form mounds that showcase the chunky nuts and coconut.

Each cookie should be a delectable work of art.

Step 5: Allow Cookies to Set

Let the cookies rest at room temperature.

They’ll gradually firm up, transforming from a glossy liquid to a chewy, delectable treat.

Patience is key to achieving the perfect texture.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Carefully peel the cookies from the paper once they’ve completely hardened.

These no-bake delights are ready to be devoured!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain their incredible texture and flavor.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe

No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 15 reviews

  • Total Time: 13 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Irresistible no bake pecan coconut praline cookies deliver Southern charm on a plate, blending sweet caramel notes with rich nutty crunch. Quick and simple preparation makes these treats perfect for spontaneous dessert cravings you’ll savor to the last delightful bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Praline Base:

  • 2 1/2 cups sugar
  • 1/2 cup evaporated milk
  • 1/2 cup corn syrup
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Nuts and Coconut:

  • 22 1/2 cups chopped pecans (toasted)
  • 2 1/2 cups grated coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)

Instructions

  1. Gather all ingredients and equipment, ensuring pecans, coconut, and vanilla extract are measured and ready for quick incorporation.
  2. In a large saucepan, blend sugar, evaporated milk, corn syrup, and butter over medium heat, stirring continuously until sugar dissolves and butter melts completely.
  3. Increase heat and let the mixture reach a vigorous boil, maintaining constant stirring for precisely 3 minutes to develop rich praline consistency without scorching.
  4. Immediately remove saucepan from heat and vigorously fold in pecans, coconut, and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly to ensure even coating and preventing ingredient separation.
  5. Allow mixture to cool slightly for 4 minutes, stirring periodically to prevent premature hardening and maintain smooth texture.
  6. Use a spoon to carefully drop uniform mounds onto wax paper or parchment, creating rustic, free-form cookie shapes that will hold their structure.
  7. Let cookies rest at room temperature for 30-45 minutes until completely solidified and can be lifted without breaking.
  8. Gently transfer hardened praline cookies from paper, arranging on a serving plate or storing in an airtight container to preserve freshness and texture.

Notes

  • Work quickly when dropping spoonfuls onto wax paper, as the praline mixture sets fast and can become difficult to shape.
  • Use a candy thermometer for precise temperature control, ensuring the perfect praline consistency without burning.
  • Toast pecans and coconut beforehand to enhance their nutty flavors and add extra depth to the cookie’s taste profile.
  • For gluten-free option, verify all ingredients are certified gluten-free, especially corn syrup and evaporated milk.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3 minutes
  • Category: Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 18 g
  • Sodium: 45 mg
  • Fat: 7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 15 mg
Lena Martinez

Lena Martinez

Contributing Writer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Southwestern and Latin American cuisines, Vegetarian and plant-based recipe development, Culinary education and community outreach ​

Education

Santa Fe Community College, Santa Fe, NM
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Emphasized Southwestern cuisine and sustainable cooking practices


Lena grew up surrounded by the colors, spices, and traditions of the Southwest – flavors that sparked her love for bold, honest cooking. After earning her Culinary Arts certificate at Santa Fe Community College, she made it her mission to teach home cooks how to create flavorful, plant-powered meals without the fuss.
Her recipes are packed with vibrant ingredients, simple steps, and the kind of heart that turns a regular meal into something you’ll want to share. Outside the kitchen, Lena spends her time wandering farmers’ markets, trading family recipes, and helping young chefs find their voice through food.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star