If you are on the lookout for a sweet treat that combines a touch of old-fashioned charm with effortless preparation, this No-Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe is exactly what you need. These delightful cookies bring together the rich, buttery flavor of pecans, the tropical sweetness of coconut, and that signature praline caramel glaze—all without ever having to turn on your oven. Creamy, crunchy, and perfectly chewy, these no-bake cookies are an irresistible snack or dessert that you can whip up in under an hour. Trust me, once you taste this nostalgic treat, it will become your go-to recipe for celebrations or just sweet cravings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a special role in creating the perfect balance of texture and flavor. The nuts bring crunch, the coconut adds chewiness and tropical notes, and the sugars transform into the sticky, caramel-like praline that ties everything together beautifully.
- 2 cups of pecans: Provides rich, earthy crunch that contrasts the chewy texture.
- 2 cups of sweetened shredded coconut: Adds a sweet tropical flair and chewy bite.
- 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar: Essential for caramel sweetness and glossy texture.
- 1 cup of brown sugar: Boosts the depth of flavor with molasses undertones.
- 1/2 cup of evaporated milk: Gives the mixture a creamy consistency vital to praline.
- 1/2 cup of light corn syrup: Helps prevent crystallization, making the caramel smooth.
- 1/2 cup or one stick of unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps bind ingredients together.
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and enhances all other flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt: Balances sweetness and elevates overall taste.
How to Make No-Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Combine Sugars, Milk, Syrup, and Butter
Begin by placing the granulated sugar, brown sugar, evaporated milk, light corn syrup, and unsalted butter into a sizeable saucepan. Over medium-high heat, stir constantly to meld these ingredients into one luscious, bubbling mixture. Patience here is key to avoid burning while ensuring everything dissolves nicely together.
Step 2: Boil the Mixture
Once your mixture reaches a boil, maintain this for exactly 3 minutes. This step is crucial because it allows the sugars to cook to the right stage for that beloved praline caramel texture. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t scorch.
Step 3: Add Vanilla and Salt
Remove the pan from heat and immediately stir in the vanilla extract and salt. These finishing touches bring depth and just the right amount of contrast, making the flavor sing.
Step 4: Stir in Coconut and Pecans
Next, gradually fold in the shredded coconut and pecans. Stir continuously for 3 to 4 minutes as the mixture cools slightly and thickens, allowing the nuts and coconut to evenly absorb the caramel glaze, creating that perfect chewy and crunchy blend.
Step 5: Portion the Cookies
Once the texture looks thick enough to hold its shape, use a tablespoon or small scoop to drop rounded mounds onto wax paper-lined baking sheets. This hands-off baking approach means there’s no touching with hot trays or timers, just pure joy and simplicity.
Step 6: Let Them Set
Allow your cookies to set at room temperature until firm, which usually takes about an hour. If you’re eager to enjoy them sooner, pop the trays into the freezer for a faster set. Once hardened, they’re ready to serve and will impress everyone with their rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
How to Serve No-Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
To add a little extra wow-factor, sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar or drizzle some melted dark chocolate over the cookies right before serving. This creates a visually stunning contrast and adds a hint of additional sweetness to each bite.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair beautifully with a simple cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk, enhancing their caramel and nutty flavors. For a more indulgent treat, serve alongside vanilla ice cream or a warm bowl of cocoa, turning your snack into a cozy dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or gift-giving, arrange your No-Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe on a festive platter with colorful paper doilies and edible flowers. You could also stack them in clear jars tied with rustic twine to share the buttery bliss with friends and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cookies keep beautifully stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. This allows them to stay fresh and maintain their perfect balance of chew and crunch without drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze these no-bake praline cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or box. Frozen, they last up to three months and thaw quickly at room temperature for whenever a sweet craving strikes.
Reheating
While these cookies are best enjoyed as is, if you prefer a warm treat, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This softens the caramel slightly without making them messy, bringing out gooey, irresistible flavors.
FAQs
Can I substitute pecans with another nut?
Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or cashews work wonderfully as alternatives, each bringing a slightly different flavor and texture that pairs well with the coconut and praline coating.
Is it necessary to use evaporated milk?
Evaporated milk provides creaminess and contributes to the perfect caramel consistency, but you can use regular whole milk with slightly less volume if needed, though the texture might be a bit lighter.
Can I make smaller or larger cookies?
Yes! Adjust the portion size to suit your preference. Just keep in mind that smaller cookies may set faster, while larger ones might need more time to firm up at room temperature or in the freezer.
How can I prevent the mixture from crystallizing?
Light corn syrup is key to stopping sugar crystals from forming, ensuring a smooth, glossy praline. Stir the mixture constantly during cooking, and avoid stirring once it starts boiling.
Are these cookies suitable for kids?
Definitely! Since they’re no-bake and involve simple ingredients, they’re safe and fun for kids to help make, and children love the sweet, chewy, nutty flavors that these praline cookies offer.
Final Thoughts
This No-Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe is truly a gem—simple to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for sharing with everyone you care about. Whether it’s for a quick snack, a holiday treat, or a thoughtful homemade gift, these cookies never disappoint. I can’t wait for you to try them and enjoy the comforting sweetness they bring to your kitchen and your heart.
Print
No-Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
These No-Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies combine crunchy pecans and sweet shredded coconut enveloped in a rich, buttery caramel-like praline mixture. Ready in under 30 minutes without any baking, they are a perfect sweet treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups of pecans
- 2 cups of sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar
- 1 cup of brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup of evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup of light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup (one stick) of unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a sizeable saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, evaporated milk, light corn syrup, and unsalted butter. Heat over medium-high temperature, stirring continuously until the mixture is fully combined and smooth.
- Boil the Mixture: Allow the mixture to come to a boil and maintain this boil for 3 minutes. This helps to thicken the praline base and develop the characteristic caramel flavor. Then remove the saucepan from heat.
- Add Flavorings: Immediately stir in the vanilla extract and salt to enhance the flavor and balance the sweetness.
- Incorporate Nuts and Coconut: Gradually add the shredded coconut and pecans to the mixture. Stir continuously for 3-4 minutes as the praline thickens and starts to cool, ensuring even distribution of ingredients.
- Portion the Cookies: Using a tablespoon or small scoop, drop portioned spoonfuls of the praline mixture onto baking sheets lined with wax paper.
- Set the Cookies: Let the cookies cool and solidify at room temperature. For quicker setting, place them in the freezer. Once hardened, they are ready to serve and enjoy.
Notes
- Make sure to stir continuously to prevent the mixture from burning or sticking to the pan.
- Using wax paper or parchment paper prevents the cookies from sticking to the baking sheet.
- For a quicker treat, freezing the cookies after portioning helps them set faster.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Feel free to substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if preferred.
