If you have a sweet tooth and love the rich, buttery flavors of pecans combined with the tropical charm of coconut, you are going to adore this No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies Recipe. These cookies are a Southern classic done effortlessly—no oven needed—making them perfect for any time you want a quick, delicious treat that feels like a warm hug. With that perfect praline sweetness and the satisfying crunch from pecans, this cookie will soon become a go-to favorite in your recipe box.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about this No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies Recipe is how straightforward and wholesome the ingredients are. Each one plays a crucial role in delivering the vibrant taste, chewy texture, and irresistible aroma that make these cookies so special.
- Granulated sugar: Provides the signature sweetness and helps create the praline’s glossy, sticky texture.
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and smoothness to balance the coconut’s toasted flavor.
- Evaporated milk: Gives the praline a creamy consistency and enhances the overall depth of flavor.
- Salt: A small pinch to amplify all the sweet flavors without overwhelming them.
- Vanilla extract: Brings a mellow aromatic note that ties all ingredients together beautifully.
- Sweetened shredded coconut: Offers chewy texture and a tropical burst of natural sweetness.
- Chopped pecans: Provides a crunchy contrast and nutty crunch quintessential to pralines.
How to Make No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple prep step ensures your cookies won’t stick, making cleanup a breeze and allowing you to focus on creating your delicious praline treats.
Step 2: Cook the Sugar Mixture
In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, unsalted butter, evaporated milk, and salt. Stir this mixture constantly until it reaches a full rolling boil. Maintaining a steady stirring rhythm is key here to prevent burning and ensure even cooking. Once boiling, continue cooking for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly—it’s this magical moment that forms the heart of your praline cookie base.
Step 3: Add Vanilla, Coconut, and Pecans
Remove the pan from heat and immediately stir in the vanilla extract, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. Mixing quickly but gently will evenly coat every morsel in the luscious praline syrup, creating that irresistible blend of sweet, nutty, and chewy all in one bite.
Step 4: Form the Cookies
Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, drop heaping tablespoons of the mixture onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them nicely so they don’t meld together. You’ll start to see just how satisfying these no-bake wonders are to shape and prepare for setting.
Step 5: Let Them Set
Let your cookies cool and firm up at room temperature for about 30 to 45 minutes. If you’re eager to enjoy them sooner, feel free to pop the tray in the fridge to speed up the process. Once the cookies are fully set, they’re ready to be devoured or stored for later.
How to Serve No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Although these cookies shine on their own, a light drizzle of melted dark or milk chocolate can add an elegant finishing touch. Sprinkle a few toasted coconut flakes or extra chopped pecans on top for an eye-catching presentation and added texture.
Side Dishes
Pair these sweet praline treats with a cup of rich coffee, hot tea, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy sides beautifully complement the cookie’s buttery nuttiness and bring out each flavor layer thoughtfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or gifting, arrange these cookies in decorative tins or stack them with parchment paper separators in mason jars. Adding a ribbon and a handwritten note with the recipe makes a thoughtful homemade gift, spreading joy and Southern charm.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. They keep wonderfully fresh for up to one week, making them perfect for prepping ahead of gatherings.
Freezing
If you want to keep these treats longer, freezing is a great option. Place parchment paper between layers in a freezer-safe container, and your cookies will stay delicious for up to 3 months. When you want to indulge, just thaw them at room temperature.
Reheating
These cookies really don’t need reheating, but if you prefer a softer texture, brief warming in the microwave for 10-15 seconds is enough. Just be careful not to overheat or the praline can become too sticky.
FAQs
Can I use unsweetened coconut instead of sweetened shredded coconut?
Yes, but keep in mind that sweetened shredded coconut adds extra sweetness and helps with the texture. If you swap for unsweetened, you might want to adjust the sugar slightly to keep the balance just right.
Is it necessary to boil the mixture for 3 to 4 minutes after it reaches a rolling boil?
Absolutely! This step thickens the mixture so the cookies set properly and get that perfect chewy yet firm texture. Skipping this can result in sticky cookies that don’t hold their shape.
Can I substitute other nuts for pecans?
Of course! Walnuts, almonds, or even cashews can work well. Each nut will add its unique flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment and make the recipe your own.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, this No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies Recipe is naturally gluten-free since it contains no flour or gluten-containing ingredients, making it a safe and tasty option for those avoiding gluten.
How long do the cookies take to set if refrigerated?
Refrigeration typically reduces the setting time to about 15 to 20 minutes, which is perfect when you’re short on time but still want to enjoy these tasty cookies quickly.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting and joyful about making and sharing the No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies Recipe. It’s fuss-free, full of flavor, and endlessly versatile for any occasion. Whether you’re new to Southern sweets or a longtime lover of pralines, give this recipe a try—you might find yourself reaching for these cookies time and time again. Happy baking, or rather, happy no-baking!
Print
No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies are a delicious Southern American dessert combining the rich flavors of sweetened coconut, toasted pecans, and a buttery praline base. These easy-to-make cookies require no oven baking and use a stovetop method to cook the sugary mixture before setting into chewy, nutty treats perfect for holidays or anytime snacking.
Ingredients
Praline Mixture
- 2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2/3 cup evaporated milk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add-Ins
- 2 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
Instructions
- Prepare baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside to use for cooling and setting the cookies.
- Cook praline base: In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, unsalted butter, evaporated milk, and salt. Stir constantly as the mixture heats to prevent burning. Bring it to a full rolling boil, then continue to cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Add flavorings and mix-ins: Remove the saucepan from the heat and quickly stir in the vanilla extract, sweetened shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. Mix thoroughly to evenly coat all ingredients with the praline syrup.
- Form cookies: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop heaping tablespoons of the mixture onto the prepared parchment-lined baking sheet. Space cookies apart to prevent sticking.
- Cool and set: Allow the cookies to cool and set at room temperature for 30 to 45 minutes. You can also refrigerate them to speed up setting.
- Store: Once firm, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain freshness.
Notes
- For a deeper, toasted flavor, toast the pecans lightly in a dry skillet or oven before chopping and adding.
- You can drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for an extra decorative and flavorful touch.
