If you love a sweet treat that comes together quickly and bursts with a chewy, nutty, and coconutty flavor, you’re in for a real delight with this No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe. These cookies combine rich pecans and luscious coconut in a praline glaze that sets perfectly without ever needing an oven. They are the ultimate cozy indulgence for when you crave something special but want to skip the complicated steps. Plus, their wonderful texture and flavor make them a guaranteed crowd-pleaser any time of year.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe relies on simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each bring their own magic to the table, from sweetness to texture and that irresistible glossy finish.
- Sugar: The essential base for the praline glaze, providing the perfect sweetness and caramel-like texture.
- Evaporated milk: Adds creaminess and depth without watering down the mixture.
- Corn syrup: Helps to keep the praline glaze smooth and prevents crystallization.
- Butter: Offers a rich, velvety mouthfeel and enhances the overall flavor.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, inviting aroma that ties all the flavors together.
- Chopped pecans: Provide crunch and a toasted nutty taste that my favorite cookies wouldn’t be the same without.
- Grated coconut: Adds a chewy texture and tropical sweetness that perfectly complements the pecans.
How to Make No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Nuts, Coconut, and Vanilla
Start by setting aside your chopped pecans, grated coconut, and vanilla extract. Having these ready to go makes the cooking process smooth and ensures everything blends perfectly at the right moment.
Step 2: Start Your Praline Base
In a large saucepan, mix together sugar, evaporated milk, corn syrup, and butter. Bring it all to a rolling boil over medium heat. Keep the mixture boiling for about three minutes, which is crucial for achieving that classic praline consistency without graininess.
Step 3: Combine Nuts and Coconut
Once you remove the pan from heat, stir in the chopped pecans, grated coconut, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly for approximately four minutes so every bite is infused with that rich, gooey praline sweetness and textured with the coconut and nuts.
Step 4: Form Your Cookies
Using a spoon, scoop spoonfuls of the mixture onto sheets of wax paper. The mixture will still be soft but start to firm up as it cools, taking shape into perfect little praline clusters.
Step 5: Let Them Set
Allow the cookies to rest at room temperature until they harden enough to handle. This usually takes some patience but is worth the wait for the delightful chewy crunch that follows.
How to Serve No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
For a touch of elegance, sprinkle a few extra toasted pecans or a light dusting of powdered sugar over the cookies just before serving. This adds a little extra visual appeal and a subtle hint of flavor that elevates the experience.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, as the warm drinks balance their sweetness beautifully. For a festive spread, serve alongside fresh fruit or a light cheese board to offer variety and contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking these cookies on a decorative platter lined with parchment paper, or wrap small batches as gifts tied with a ribbon. You can also place them in mini cupcake liners to make a charming bite-sized treat for parties or gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They hold their texture beautifully and remain just as delicious even after a few days.
Freezing
If you want to store them longer, freeze the cookies in a sealed container with parchment layers to prevent sticking. They freeze well for up to two months and thaw quickly at room temperature.
Reheating
Since these are no bake cookies, reheating isn’t necessary. If you desire a softer texture, let them sit at room temperature for a little while to regain their chewiness.
FAQs
Can I substitute the pecans with other nuts?
Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds work beautifully and will slightly change the texture and flavor profile, but still keep the praline spirit alive.
Is there a way to make these cookies vegan?
Yes! You can swap butter for coconut oil and use a plant-based evaporated milk alternative. The texture may vary slightly, but they’ll still be delicious.
How do I prevent the praline mixture from getting grainy?
Boiling the sugar mixture to the correct temperature and stirring well at the right time is key. Avoid stirring while it’s boiling and make sure to mix thoroughly after removing from heat.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
The recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your ingredients (especially corn syrup and evaporated milk) do not contain any gluten additives.
How long do these cookies last?
Stored in an airtight container, they last about a week at room temperature or up to two months in the freezer without losing their flavor or texture.
Final Thoughts
This No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe is such a joy to make and share, delivering that perfect balance of sweetness, crunch, and chew every time. It’s a simple recipe that brings a little sparkle to your day with every bite. I hope you have as much fun making and eating these as I do—go ahead and treat yourself and your loved ones to this timeless delight!
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
Deliciously sweet and nutty, these No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies combine the rich flavors of pecans and coconut in a luscious caramel-like praline coating. Perfect for quick treats without turning on the oven, these cookies offer a delightful chewy texture with a hint of vanilla sweetness.
Ingredients
Cookie Mixture
- 2½ cups sugar
- ½ cup evaporated milk
- ½ cup corn syrup
- ½ cup butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2–2½ cups chopped pecans
- 2½ cups grated coconut
Instructions
- Prepare Nuts and Coconut: Set aside the chopped pecans, grated coconut, and vanilla extract, ready for mixing later.
- Boil Sugar Mixture: In a large saucepan, combine sugar, evaporated milk, corn syrup, and butter. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil and let it boil continuously for 3 minutes to develop the praline base.
- Combine Ingredients: Remove the saucepan from heat, then stir in the pecans, coconut, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly for about 4 minutes until everything is well incorporated.
- Spoon onto Wax Paper: Using a spoon, scoop portions of the mixture onto wax paper, forming individual cookies. Allow them to cool and harden completely.
- Serve: Once the cookies have set and are firm, carefully peel them off the wax paper and enjoy the sweet, nutty praline treats.
Notes
- Use fresh grated coconut for best texture and flavor, or unsweetened desiccated coconut as an alternative.
- Ensure the sugar mixture boils for the full 3 minutes to achieve the right praline consistency.
- Allow cookies to cool completely before removing to prevent sticking and breaking.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness and chewiness.
- Adjust pecan quantity slightly to preference for nuttiness.
