If you’re craving something sweet, chewy, toasty, and nutty but don’t want to turn on your oven, these No-Bake Coconut Praline Cookies are pure dessert magic. Golden coconut, crunchy pecans, and a glossy praline-style coating make every bite irresistible, and the simplicity means you’ll have them ready in no time. Whether you need a last-minute holiday specialty, a gluten-free treat for a gathering, or just a nostalgic taste of Southern comfort at home, this recipe is guaranteed to steal the spotlight!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These No-Bake Coconut Praline Cookies require just a handful of pantry staples, but each ingredient brings something special to the party. From silky evaporated milk to toasted pecans and snow-white coconut, every element has its role in creating that perfect praline chew and satisfying flavor.
- Granulated sugar (2 1/2 cups): The foundation for the praline base, binding and sweetening everything.
- Evaporated milk (1/2 cup): Adds a rich, creamy texture and depth that elevates the traditional no-bake formula.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup): Gives lusciousness and helps achieve that signature praline snap.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Just enough to balance the sweetness and bring all the flavors forward.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Infuses a warm, familiar aroma that makes pralines so comforting.
- Sweetened shredded coconut (2 cups): Provides tropical flavor and perfect chewy texture.
- Chopped pecans (2 cups): For the best result, toast these first for extra crunch and nuttiness.
How to Make No-Bake Coconut Praline Cookies
Step 1: Prepare Your Equipment
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside. This small advance prep step makes scooping and cooling the cookies a breeze — nothing sticks, everything shapes up beautifully.
Step 2: Make the Praline Mixture
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add your granulated sugar, evaporated milk, unsalted butter, and salt. Stir constantly to ensure the mixture heats evenly and doesn’t scorch. This teamwork between heat and patience is what forms the backbone of your No-Bake Coconut Praline Cookies.
Step 3: Bring to a Rolling Boil
Keep stirring as the mixture heats up. When you see it bubble vigorously — a real, energetic rolling boil — keep it going for exactly 3 minutes. Use a timer if you need! It’s this boiling phase that gives the praline its characteristic shine and chewy, caramelized magic.
Step 4: Add Flavors and Texture
Remove the saucepan from the heat as soon as your timer is up. Quickly stir in the vanilla extract, sweetened shredded coconut, and the chopped (preferably toasted) pecans. Work quickly here; the mixture thickens as it cools.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Drop spoonfuls of the hot mixture onto your prepared baking sheet. You can make petite bites for a party tray or bigger mounds for the cookie monsters in your life. Leave space between them; they won’t spread, but it helps each cookie set perfectly.
Step 6: Let Them Set
Let your No-Bake Coconut Praline Cookies rest at room temperature until fully set and firm to the touch, which takes about 30 to 45 minutes. The hardest part is resisting the urge to snag a bite before they’re ready!
How to Serve No-Bake Coconut Praline Cookies
Garnishes
Garnishes can be as simple or decadent as you want. Try a sprinkle of flaked sea salt (just a pinch right after shaping), a drizzle of melted dark chocolate, or a dusting of toasted coconut for extra flair. These small touches add contrast and elevate the already delicious cookies.
Side Dishes
While No-Bake Coconut Praline Cookies are more than capable of stealing the dessert table, they absolutely shine alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a latté served in your favorite mug. For a Southern-inspired spread, pair them with fresh berries or lemon wedges for a refreshing twist.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack them high on a rustic cake stand, tuck into a pastel-tinted tin for gift giving, or serve in simple paper liners for easy grab-and-go treats at a party. For the holidays, thread a few cookies onto bakers’ twine like edible garlands, or arrange on a platter with colorful dried fruits and chocolate shards for a showstopping centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your No-Bake Coconut Praline Cookies will keep their texture and flavor best in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll last for up to a week, making them a superb candidate for make-ahead holiday trays or quick sweet-tooth fixes throughout the workweek.
Freezing
If you want to stash a batch for later, these cookies freeze beautifully. Once fully set, lay them in a single layer between sheets of wax paper in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to two months, perfect for unexpected guests or spontaneous dessert cravings.
Reheating
No reheating required! Just bring frozen cookies to room temperature for about 15 to 20 minutes before serving. If you like a gooier bite, try popping one in the microwave for 5 seconds, but mostly these are best enjoyed as-is, straight from their container.
FAQs
How do I know when the sugar mixture is ready to come off the heat?
The sugar mixture is ready once it reaches a full rolling boil and has bubbled actively for 3 full minutes. Go by your timer — too short and the cookies may not set, too long and they’ll be dry or crumbly.
Can I use unsweetened coconut instead?
Absolutely, you can swap in unsweetened shredded coconut if you prefer a less-sweet treat. The texture will be a touch drier, and you may want to add another tablespoon of sugar to replace some lost sweetness.
What’s the best way to toast pecans for this recipe?
Spread chopped pecans on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden and fragrant. Let them cool before adding to the batter for maximum crunch and aroma.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, the recipe doubles (even triples) well, but work in batches when boiling and shaping to avoid the mixture setting before you’ve scooped all your cookies. Having an extra set of hands helps!
Are No-Bake Coconut Praline Cookies gluten-free?
Yes! The ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, making these cookies a crowd-pleaser for anyone with dietary sensitivities. Just double-check labels to be safe.
Final Thoughts
The fun, foolproof charm of No-Bake Coconut Praline Cookies is something everyone should experience. Whether you share them as gifts, special occasion treats, or just a sweet indulgence for yourself, they always bring a little wow-factor and a lot of smiles. So gather your ingredients and get ready to fall in love!
Print
No-Bake Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes (including cooling)
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these delicious No-Bake Coconut Praline Cookies, a sweet Southern treat that’s perfect for any occasion. These easy-to-make cookies are filled with the rich flavors of coconut, pecans, and vanilla, creating a delightful blend of textures and tastes.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 2 cups chopped pecans
Instructions
- Prepare the Mixture: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, evaporated milk, butter, and salt. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a full rolling boil.
- Boil the Mixture: Let it boil for 3 minutes, continuing to stir. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, coconut, and pecans.
- Form the Cookies: Working quickly, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Let the cookies sit at room temperature until fully set, about 30–45 minutes.
Notes
- For extra flavor, toast the pecans before adding them.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
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