If you’re looking for a melt-in-your-mouth treat that boasts Southern charm, craveable caramel notes, and a sweet nutty crunch all without turning on the oven, these No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies are about to become your new addiction. Each bite is loaded with lush coconut, buttery pecans, and that caramelized praline magic, all wrapped up in a chewy, coconut-forward cookie that comes together in minutes. It’s truly a recipe you’ll want to share with friends, family, and every dessert lover you know.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk about the stars of this show! Every ingredient in No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies plays a role in delivering the perfect texture and irresistible flavor combo. Here’s how each one shines:
- Granulated sugar: Sweet and caramelizes into the signature praline flavor at the heart of these cookies.
- Unsalted butter: Provides rich creaminess and helps the cookies set beautifully; use high-quality butter for the best taste.
- Evaporated milk: Adds a subtle dairy richness that gives these cookies their classic Southern praline texture.
- Salt: Just a pinch, but it’s crucial for balancing all the sweetness and letting the pecan and coconut flavors shine.
- Vanilla extract: A hint of vanilla wraps the whole cookie in cozy, familiar warmth—don’t skip it!
- Sweetened shredded coconut: Delivers chewy texture and a burst of tropical sweetness in every bite.
- Chopped pecans: Praline’s best friend! Their buttery crunch is the heart of these cookies.
- Ground cinnamon (optional): Adds a whisper of spice that pairs beautifully with caramel and nuts if you’re feeling festive.
How to Make No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheets
Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or wax paper and set them aside. This little bit of prep makes cleanup a breeze and ensures your No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies lift right off when they’re set.
Step 2: Cook the Praline Base
Grab a medium saucepan and combine the sugar, butter, evaporated milk, and salt. Stir everything together over medium heat. Keep an eye—and a stirring hand—on it as you bring the mixture to a gentle boil to avoid any scorching.
Step 3: Reach the Right Consistency
Let the mixture bubble away for about 3–4 minutes, stirring constantly. You’re looking for it to thicken just a bit and take on a light golden color; this is where all those praline flavors blossom into life.
Step 4: Stir in Flavors & Goodies
Once you’ve turned off the heat, immediately stir in your vanilla extract, shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and if you like, a sprinkle of ground cinnamon. Work quickly—this mix thickens up fast!
Step 5: Shape & Set the Cookies
Using a spoon, drop generous mounds of the mixture onto your prepared baking sheets, leaving about an inch between each. Let the cookies cool at room temperature for 30–45 minutes, until they’re completely set and ready to pick up.
How to Serve No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies
Garnishes
You can take these cookies to the next level by drizzling them with a ribbon of melted chocolate or caramel once they’re set. For a festive occasion, consider a dusting of powdered sugar or a few extra toasted pecan bits sprinkled on top.
Side Dishes
These cookies shine next to a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a cozy mug of coffee, or a glass of cold milk. They’re also the perfect sweet ending to a hearty Southern meal—try pairing them with fresh fruit or a light citrus salad to balance out the rich sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies look stunning stacked on a rustic cake stand or nestled in cupcake liners for a grab-and-go treat at parties. You can even wrap them up in clear cellophane bags for charming homemade edible gifts!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your cookies are set, pop them into an airtight container and store them at room temperature. They’ll stay chewy and delicious for up to a week—just keep them away from any humidity to maintain their signature texture.
Freezing
Need to keep them longer? These No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies freeze like a dream. Layer them with wax paper in an airtight container or freezer bag, and you’ll have treats ready to go for up to two months. Allow them to thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
No need to reheat these cookies—they’re meant to be enjoyed as they are! If you like them a touch firmer, a quick stint in the fridge works wonders; otherwise, a few minutes at room temperature will have them ready for snacking.
FAQs
Can I use unsweetened coconut instead of sweetened?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind that the cookies will be a bit less sweet and slightly drier, so you may want to add a touch more sugar or a tablespoon of extra evaporated milk.
How long does it take for the cookies to set?
Usually, 30 to 45 minutes at room temperature is plenty of time for these No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies to firm up. If you’re in a hurry, you can speed things along by refrigerating them for 15–20 minutes.
Do I have to toast the pecans?
Toasting the pecans is optional but highly recommended—it deepens their flavor and adds a lovely crunch. If you want to level up your cookies, toast them in a dry skillet or oven for a few minutes before chopping.
Can I add other mix-ins?
Why not? Chopped dried cherries, mini chocolate chips, or a handful of toffee bits would all be delicious! Just be careful not to overload the mix, or the cookies might not set properly.
Are these No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as long as you double-check that your vanilla extract and pecans are processed in a gluten-free facility. Everyone can indulge!
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something sweet, nostalgic, and incredibly easy, you simply have to try these No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies. Whip up a batch and treat yourself (and your friends!) to a little handcrafted Southern comfort—it’s impossible to eat just one!
Print
No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies are a delightful treat with a perfect blend of sweet coconut, crunchy pecans, and a hint of cinnamon. Easy to make and requiring no oven time, these cookies are ideal for satisfying your sweet tooth in a hurry.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional Ingredients:
- 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Sheets: Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or wax paper and set aside.
- Cook Sugar Mixture: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, butter, evaporated milk, and salt. Stir continuously and bring to a gentle boil. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring constantly until slightly thickened and light golden.
- Finish Cookie Mixture: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, coconut, pecans, and cinnamon if using.
- Form Cookies: Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them apart. Let cool at room temperature until set, about 30–45 minutes.
- Store: Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Notes
- Toasted pecans enhance flavor.
- Drizzle with melted chocolate or caramel for a decadent touch.
- For firmer cookies, refrigerate after setting.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
