If you love the rich sweetness of Southern desserts and crave something that perfectly balances crunch with luscious melt-in-your-mouth flavor, you are going to adore this No-Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe. These cookies come together quickly without heating up the oven, making them an ideal treat for busy days or last-minute gatherings. Each bite offers the buttery caramel notes of praline, enhanced by the toasty pecans and chewy coconut, creating a nostalgic yet refreshing spin on classic Southern sweets. The simplicity of this recipe means you spend more time enjoying your cookies than stressing over complicated techniques.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this No-Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each chosen to bring a unique texture and flavor that harmonize beautifully. From the deep, buttery caramel base to the crunchy pecans and sweet coconut, these ingredients are essentials that guarantee your cookies turn out perfectly every time.
- Granulated sugar: Provides the base sweetness and caramelizes for that signature praline flavor.
- Brown sugar (light or dark): Adds moisture and a rich, molasses-like depth to the mix.
- Evaporated milk: Creates a creamy caramel sauce with the sugars and butter.
- Unsalted butter: Essential for a smooth, rich texture and buttery taste without overwhelming salt.
- Chopped pecans: Adds crunch and a nutty warmth that pairs perfectly with sweet coconut.
- Sweetened shredded coconut: Brings chewy texture and tropical sweetness to every bite.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a fragrant, warm undertone.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and highlights the other ingredients.
How to Make No-Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare your workspace
Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This simple prep step ensures your cookies won’t stick and makes clean-up a breeze, setting you up for success before the stovetop magic begins.
Step 2: Cook the caramel base
In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, evaporated milk, and butter. Stir constantly as the butter melts and the mixture begins to bubble. This careful attention prevents burning and helps the sugars dissolve smoothly, creating that perfect caramel foundation for your cookies.
Step 3: Boil to thicken
Allow the mixture to boil gently for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring often. This is key for thickening your candy so it sets wonderfully once cooled. Be patient and keep stirring; this step locks in the glossy, luscious texture you’re aiming for.
Step 4: Stir in the good stuff
Remove the pan from heat and quickly mix in the chopped pecans, shredded coconut, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. The vanilla rounds out the flavors while the salt brings balance, and the nuts and coconut add irresistible texture and richness. Stir until everything is evenly combined.
Step 5: Shape the cookies
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop heaping tablespoons of the sticky mixture onto the lined baking sheet. Space them well as they won’t spread much but need room to set properly. These rustic cookie mounds are charmingly uneven, a sign of homemade love.
Step 6: Cool and set
Let your No-Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe cool at room temperature for 30 to 45 minutes, or until firm. This resting time transforms the gooey mixture into delightfully chewy, sweet morsels that hold their shape perfectly without baking.
How to Serve No-Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a dash of flaky sea salt on top just before the cookies set for a magical sweet-salty finish. You can also add a light drizzle of melted dark chocolate for some elegant flair that pairs beautifully with the pecan and coconut.
Side Dishes
Serve these cookies alongside a chilled glass of milk, or for an adult twist, a cup of bold coffee or spiced chai. Their sweetness complements warm beverages perfectly and balances richness with cozy comfort.
Creative Ways to Present
For gifting or special occasions, arrange the cookies in a rustic wooden box lined with parchment, tied with twine and a handwritten note. You could also layer them between wax paper in a decorative tin to keep them fresh and shareable.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your cookies fresh and chewy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for up to one week, making them a fabulous treat to enjoy throughout the week or for spontaneous guests.
Freezing
If you want to make a large batch in advance, freeze the cookies on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months and thawed at room temperature when you’re ready to indulge.
Reheating
Reheat gently in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds if you prefer them warm and gooey again. Just be careful not to overheat, as the sugars can become too soft and sticky to handle.
FAQs
Can I use different nuts in this No-Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe?
Absolutely! While pecans give a classic Southern touch, walnuts or almonds can be great substitutes. Just chop them roughly to keep that satisfying crunch.
What if I don’t have evaporated milk?
You can replace evaporated milk with regular milk, but reduce the cooking time slightly as it has more moisture. The caramel might be a bit lighter but still tasty.
Can these cookies be made vegan?
To make a vegan version, swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and use coconut milk instead of evaporated milk. Keep in mind the texture and flavor might be a little different but still delicious.
How do I prevent the cookies from sticking to the parchment paper?
Ensure the parchment or silicone mat is properly laid out and avoid using wax paper. You can also lightly grease the parchment if you find sticking is a persistent issue.
Can I add chocolate chips to this recipe?
Yes! For a chocolatey twist, stir in ¼ cup mini chocolate chips right before scooping the mixture onto the baking sheet. It adds a lovely melty surprise in every bite.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say this No-Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe is one of those effortless treasures that will quickly become a staple in your recipe box. Its combination of sweet, nutty, and chewy textures is absolutely irresistible—and the ease of making no-bake treats means more joy and less fuss. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll be sharing it with friends and family in no time.
Print
No-Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These No-Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies are a delightful Southern American dessert combining the rich flavors of toasted pecans, sweet shredded coconut, and caramelized sugars. Ready in under an hour, these chewy, nutty treats require no oven baking and are perfect for holidays or anytime you crave a sweet, nutty cookie.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- ½ cup evaporated milk
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1½ cups chopped pecans
- 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to ensure the cookies won’t stick as they set.
- Combine Sugars and Butter: In a large saucepan over medium heat, mix granulated sugar, brown sugar, evaporated milk, and butter. Stir constantly to melt the butter and avoid burning, until the mixture begins to boil.
- Boil the Mixture: Let the mixture boil for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent scorching and achieve the right caramel consistency.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the chopped pecans, shredded coconut, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly to combine all flavors evenly.
- Scoop the Cookies: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop heaping tablespoons of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, shaping each cookie.
- Cool and Set: Let the cookies cool at room temperature for 30–45 minutes, or until they are firm and set, before serving or storing.
Notes
- For a chocolate twist, stir in ¼ cup mini chocolate chips just before scooping the cookies.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain freshness.
