Easy No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe
If you’re looking for a dessert that delivers Southern charm with utter ease, you absolutely have to make these Easy No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies. Imagine sweet clusters of buttery praline goodness, chewy coconut, and nutty, crunchy pecans coming together in a treat that requires no oven and barely any hands-on time. They’re soul-satisfying, nostalgic, and just the kind of treat you want to show off at potlucks or gift to someone special. Best of all, you won’t believe how simple they are to whip up!
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the true joys of making Easy No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies is how each ingredient brings something special to the table—fudge-like richness, nutty crunch, and that irresistible chewy texture. The simplicity of the list also means you likely have most of these ingredients waiting in your pantry.
- Granulated sugar: The foundation for that classic praline sweetness and crunch.
- Unsalted butter: Adds rich, creamy flavor and helps everything meld into that signature praline texture.
- Evaporated milk: Provides creaminess without thinning out the mixture, key for chewy but firm cookies.
- Salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness and makes all the flavors pop.
- Vanilla extract: Lends depth and warmth, tying all the flavors together beautifully.
- Chopped pecans: Toasty, buttery pecans are the hallmark of Southern pralines—don’t skimp on these!
- Sweetened shredded coconut: Adds that unforgettable chewy texture and just the right touch of tropical flair.
How to Make Easy No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies
Step 1: Melt and Simmer the Base
Start by combining the granulated sugar, unsalted butter, evaporated milk, and salt in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly as the butter melts and the sugar dissolves, making sure nothing scorches on the bottom. Once the mixture comes to a gentle boil, let it simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring all the while, until it thickens just a bit. This step is where the magic starts—slowly transforming common ingredients into praline richness!
Step 2: Add Flavor and Texture
Once your base is nicely thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract, chopped pecans, and sweetened shredded coconut. You’ll notice the mixture takes on a fabulous aroma and a lusciously chunky texture. Give it a good stir so every bite is loaded with coconut and pecan.
Step 3: Form the Cookies
Line a baking sheet with parchment or wax paper to make cleanup a breeze. Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, quickly dollop heaping tablespoons of the warm mixture onto the lined sheet. Don’t worry about making them perfectly round—these rustic, free-form clusters are what give Easy No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies their homespun charm!
Step 4: Let Them Set
Patience pays off here! Let the cookies cool and set at room temperature for 30 to 45 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready to eat when they’ve firmed up enough to lift from the paper without sticking. This is perhaps the hardest part—waiting for your kitchen to fill with the scent of praline, and not sneaking a bite too early!
How to Serve Easy No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies
Garnishes
Dress up your cookies by sprinkling a little extra toasted coconut or a pinch of flaky sea salt on top as they’re cooling. A drizzle of melted chocolate can also take these cookies to a whole new level if you’re feeling fancy. These simple touches elevate both the appearance and the flavor!
Side Dishes
Pair these cookies with fresh fruit, like juicy strawberries or sliced oranges, to balance out their sweetness. They’re also excellent alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even served with a mug of coffee or spiced tea for a cozy snack break.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive flair, arrange your Easy No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies on a tiered cake stand or tuck them into a pretty tin for gifting. You can also sandwich a little whipped cream or ice cream between two cookies for an over-the-top treat. Feel free to get creative—the possibilities are as endless as your imagination!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Easy No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies fresh and just the right texture, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for up to five days—perfect for making ahead of a party or prepping for midweek snacks.
Freezing
If you want to keep them even longer, you can absolutely freeze these cookies. Place them in a single layer on a tray until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep their wonderful flavor and chew for up to two months. Just let them thaw at room temperature whenever you need a quick treat!
Reheating
Since these cookies are best enjoyed at room temperature, there’s no need to reheat them. But if you like a slightly gooey texture, a quick 5-second zap in the microwave can soften them just a bit—just be careful not to overdo it, or they’ll lose that praline snap!
FAQs
Can I use unsweetened coconut instead of sweetened?
Yes, but keep in mind the cookies will be less sweet and slightly drier. If you like your treats on the less-sugary side, unsweetened coconut is a great option—just be prepared for a subtly different texture.
What’s the best way to toast pecans and coconut?
Spread pecans and coconut in even layers on a baking sheet and toast in a 350°F oven for 5–8 minutes, shaking the pan once or twice. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re golden and fragrant—keep an eye on them, as they go from perfect to burnt quickly!
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just use a larger saucepan and stir diligently to ensure even cooking. Doubling is highly recommended for parties—the cookies always disappear fast!
Are Easy No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies gluten-free?
Yes, every ingredient in this recipe is naturally gluten-free. They’re a wonderful option for anyone avoiding gluten but craving an indulgent homemade treat.
Can I add other mix-ins?
Of course! Try mini chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or even a pinch of cinnamon for a fun twist. Just don’t overload the mix-ins, or your cookies might not hold together as well.
Final Thoughts
I can’t say enough good things about these Easy No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies. They’re practically foolproof, loaded with crave-worthy flavor, and make any gathering a little sweeter. Give them a try, and you’ll see just how quickly a batch disappears—don’t be surprised if they become a new favorite in your house too!
Print
Easy No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes (plus setting time)
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Easy No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the nutty flavor of pecans with the sweet, tropical taste of coconut. Simple to make and requiring no baking, these cookies are perfect for a quick and satisfying dessert.
Ingredients
Sugar Mixture:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add-Ins:
- 2 cups chopped pecans
- 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
Instructions
- Cook the Sugar Mixture: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, butter, evaporated milk, and salt. Bring to a gentle boil and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Finish the Cookie Dough: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, chopped pecans, and shredded coconut until well combined.
- Shape the Cookies: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop heaping tablespoons of the mixture onto parchment or wax paper.
- Allow to Set: Let the cookies cool and set at room temperature for 30–45 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, toast the pecans and coconut before adding.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
