If you are craving a sweet treat that bursts with rich, nutty flavors and tropical hints, then this No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe is just what you need. These delightful cookies are imbued with the caramelized warmth of praline sugar, the crunch of toasted pecans, and the chewiness of fresh coconut—all coming together without ever turning on the oven! Perfect for quick gatherings, last-minute desserts, or whenever a cozy, indulgent bite calls your name, this recipe will quickly become a beloved classic in your cookie repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies come to life with a handful of pantry staples that pack incredible flavor and texture. Each ingredient plays a starring role, from the silky butter to the crunchy pecans and sweet coconut, creating a harmony of taste that’s simply irresistible.
- 2½ cups sugar: The base of sweetness that caramelizes beautifully to form the praline coating.
- ½ cup evaporated milk: Adds creaminess and depth to the caramel mixture, balancing the sugar’s intensity.
- ½ cup corn syrup: Helps keep the praline mixture smooth and prevents crystallization.
- ½ cup butter: Introduces a rich, velvety texture that makes these cookies wonderfully luscious.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with fragrant sweetness.
- 2 to 2½ cups chopped pecans: Provides a satisfying crunch and hearty nuttiness that contrasts perfectly with the chewy coconut.
- 2½ cups grated coconut: Adds a chewy texture and tropical flavor that complements the praline base.
How to Make No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Key Ingredients
Before you start cooking, set aside the chopped pecans, grated coconut, and vanilla extract. This little preparation creates an efficient workflow and ensures you can add everything into the praline mixture without delay, preserving the perfect texture.
Step 2: Create the Praline Base
In a large saucepan, combine the sugar, evaporated milk, corn syrup, and butter. Bring this mixture to a rolling boil over medium heat, then keep it boiling steadily for 3 minutes. This step is crucial for developing that luscious, caramelized flavor while ensuring the sugar mixture reaches the proper consistency.
Step 3: Mix in Nuts, Coconut, and Vanilla
Remove your saucepan from heat and stir in the reserved chopped pecans, grated coconut, and vanilla extract. Mix everything thoroughly for about 4 minutes until all the ingredients are perfectly combined and the mixture thickens to a sticky, irresistible texture ready to scoop.
Step 4: Form the Cookies
Spoon generous dollops of the warm praline mixture onto wax paper, spacing them enough to prevent sticking. This no-bake step is delightfully simple yet rewarding as you watch the cookies start to take shape without needing an oven.
Step 5: Let Them Set and Enjoy!
Allow the cookies to cool completely and harden on the wax paper. Once set, carefully peel them off and get ready to savor these crispy, chewy delights!
How to Serve No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
If you want to add an extra pop of color or flavor, consider sprinkling a light dusting of powdered cinnamon or cocoa powder on top right after scooping. Toasted coconut flakes or a drizzle of dark chocolate also make stunning garnishes that complement the praline’s richness.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair exceptionally well with a warm cup of coffee or tea, balancing their sweetness with a comforting beverage. For a festive treat, serve alongside fresh fruit slices like oranges or apples that refresh the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Present these cookies as part of a dessert platter with assorted nuts and dried fruits for a rustic, inviting look. Another fun idea is to place each cookie in a decorative cupcake liner for individual servings, perfect for parties and gift-giving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled and hardened, store your No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and crisp for up to a week, making them a perfect make-ahead treat for busy days.
Freezing
If you want to keep these cookies longer, freeze them wrapped individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. They freeze exceptionally well and can be kept for up to three months without losing texture or flavor.
Reheating
Since these are no bake cookies, reheating isn’t necessary. However, if you prefer them slightly softened, let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before enjoying. Avoid microwaves as they can make the praline too sticky or oily.
FAQs
Can I substitute pecans with other nuts?
Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts can be excellent alternatives, each adding a unique flavor and crunch. Just be sure to chop them roughly to maintain the chewy-crunchy texture balance.
Is there a way to make these cookies gluten-free?
Good news: this entire No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it contains no flour or gluten ingredients. Just double-check that your coconut and other packaged items are certified gluten-free if you have sensitivities.
Can I use fresh coconut instead of grated coconut?
Yes! Fresh coconut adds a delightful freshness and extra moisture, but you might want to slightly reduce the amount to keep the cookie from becoming too soft. Toasting fresh coconut briefly can also enhance the flavor.
What texture should the praline mixture have before spooning?
After mixing in the nuts and coconut, the praline should be thick, sticky, and able to hold its shape once dropped onto wax paper. If it’s too runny, it won’t set properly, so be sure to boil the sugar mixture the full 3 minutes.
Can I add chocolate chips or other mix-ins?
Definitely! Stirring in a handful of mini chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or even a pinch of sea salt can add exciting new layers to this classic recipe. Just fold them in after you combine the nuts and coconut to distribute evenly.
Final Thoughts
This No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe is such a joyous way to create something sweet, satisfying, and utterly delicious without heating up the oven. Whether you’re sharing with friends or sneaking a bite yourself, these cookies will bring a smile and a warm feeling every time. I hope you have as much fun making and eating them as I do—trust me, they’re too good not to share!
Print
No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies combining rich praline flavors with crunchy pecans and sweet coconut, perfect for a quick and easy treat that requires no oven time.
Ingredients
Praline Mixture
- 2½ cups sugar
- ½ cup evaporated milk
- ½ cup corn syrup
- ½ cup butter
Add-ins
- 2–2½ cups chopped pecans
- 2½ cups grated coconut
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare Add-ins: Set the chopped pecans, grated coconut, and vanilla extract aside to be added later in the recipe.
- Cook Praline Base: In a large saucepan, combine sugar, evaporated milk, corn syrup, and butter. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium heat and continue boiling for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Combine Ingredients: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the pecans, coconut, and vanilla extract. Mix well for about 4 minutes to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Shape Cookies: Using a spoon, scoop spoonfuls of the mixture onto sheets of wax paper, spacing them evenly. Allow the cookies to cool and harden at room temperature.
- Serve: Once the cookies have fully set and hardened, carefully peel them off the wax paper and enjoy your no-bake praline treats!
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of pecans depending on your preference for nuttiness.
- Make sure to use full boil time of 3 minutes for proper caramelization and texture.
- Let the cookies cool completely before removing from wax paper to avoid breaking them.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
