No-Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies

Sweet, nutty, and chewy with a delightful crunch, these No-Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies are the kind of treat that feels indulgent yet incredibly simple to make. Imagine toasted pecans mingling with shredded coconut, all enveloped in a caramel-like praline mixture that sets into irresistible cookies — no oven required. Trust me, these are going to be your new go-to sweet fix.

Behind the Recipe

I first stumbled upon the idea of these cookies while craving pecan pralines but not wanting to go through the fuss of candy thermometers and lengthy cooking. The goal was to capture that same caramelized, nutty flavor in an easier, no-bake form. Adding coconut was the twist that turned them into something even more special, with an extra layer of texture that keeps you coming back for just one more bite.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Pralines originated in France, where almonds were coated in caramelized sugar. When the recipe traveled to Louisiana, pecans replaced almonds, giving birth to the Southern pecan praline. These cookies are a playful spin on that tradition, blending Southern charm with the ease of a no-bake cookie. They celebrate the same flavors but with a quicker, weeknight-friendly approach.

Why You’ll Love No-Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies

These cookies hit all the right notes, and here’s why:

Versatile: Perfect for dessert trays, potlucks, or an afternoon pick-me-up.

Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples like sugar, butter, and shredded coconut.

Quick and Easy: Comes together in less than 20 minutes with no oven involved.

Customizable: Swap in other nuts or add chocolate for a twist.

Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone loves the caramel-nut-coconut combo.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Stores well in the fridge, making them ideal for prepping in advance.

Great for Leftovers: Keep them chilled and enjoy throughout the week.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Here’s how to make these no-bake gems turn out perfect every time:

• Toast the pecans lightly before mixing — it deepens the nutty flavor.
• Stir constantly while making the praline mixture to avoid burning.
• Work quickly when combining everything, as the mixture sets fast.
• Use parchment paper for easy cookie shaping and cleanup.
• Chill the cookies for 20–30 minutes for the best texture.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things simple — here’s what you’ll want on hand:

Medium Saucepan: To cook the praline mixture.

Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring without sticking.

Mixing Bowl: To combine the coconut and pecans.

Parchment Paper or Silicone Mat: For dropping cookies to set.

Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accuracy.

Ingredients in No-Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies

Each ingredient has a delicious role to play. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Pecans: 1 and 1/2 cups, roughly chopped — The nutty crunch at the heart of the cookie.
2. Shredded Sweetened Coconut: 1 and 1/2 cups — Adds chewiness and sweet texture.
3. Granulated Sugar: 1 and 1/2 cups — Forms the praline base.
4. Brown Sugar: 1/2 cup, packed — Adds caramel depth and richness.
5. Evaporated Milk: 2/3 cup — Smooths out the praline mixture.
6. Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick) — Adds richness and helps bind.
7. Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon — Brings warmth and flavor.
8. Salt: 1/4 teaspoon — Balances sweetness.

Ingredient Substitutions

Need to adjust? Here’s how:

Pecans: Use walnuts, almonds, or cashews.
Shredded Coconut: Use unsweetened coconut if you prefer less sweetness.
Evaporated Milk: Swap with half-and-half or heavy cream.
Brown Sugar: Use coconut sugar for a slightly different flavor.
Unsalted Butter: Margarine works in a pinch.

Ingredient Spotlight

Pecans: With their buttery, earthy flavor, pecans shine in pralines and cookies alike. Toasting them intensifies their aroma and adds irresistible crunch.

Coconut: Its chewy sweetness balances the caramelized praline mixture, giving the cookies depth and texture.

Instructions for Making No-Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies

These cookies come together in a flash. Here’s how:

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.

2. Combine Ingredients:
In a saucepan, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, evaporated milk, and butter. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Boil for about 3 minutes until thickened slightly.

3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt.

4. Assemble the Dish:
Quickly add pecans and shredded coconut, stirring until well coated.

5. Cook to Perfection:
Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.

6. Finishing Touches:
Let cookies cool at room temperature or refrigerate until set.

7. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy straight from the fridge or at room temperature for chewy, crunchy bites of heaven.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The magic lies in the contrast: the chewy coconut, the nutty crunch of pecans, and the sweet praline coating that firms up into a candy-like shell. Each bite is buttery, toasty, and just sweet enough to keep you reaching for another.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Work quickly once the praline mixture is ready — it sets fast.
• Use a small cookie scoop for evenly sized cookies.
• Store in the fridge for a firmer bite, or at room temperature for softer cookies.

What to Avoid

• Don’t overcook the praline mixture — it can crystallize.
• Avoid leaving cookies in a warm kitchen for too long; they may soften too much.
• Don’t skip the salt — it makes the sweetness pop.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 18
Calories per serving: 185

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These cookies are fantastic for preparing ahead. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for up to 2 months. If stacking, separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

How to Serve No-Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies

Serve these cookies as part of a dessert platter, gift them in little treat bags, or enjoy them with a hot cup of coffee or tea. They’re festive enough for holidays and simple enough for everyday snacking.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Turn your extras into new treats:

• Crumble over ice cream for a crunchy topping.
• Break into chunks and stir into brownie batter.
• Use as a base for mini cheesecakes.

Additional Tips

• Sprinkle a touch of flaky sea salt on top before cooling for a gourmet twist.
• Toast the coconut lightly for a deeper flavor profile.
• For a chocolate version, drizzle melted dark chocolate over cooled cookies.

Make It a Showstopper

Pile the cookies high on a rustic wooden tray, scatter a few pecan halves around, and dust with powdered sugar. Add festive ribbon-wrapped bags for gifting — they’ll look as good as they taste.

Variations to Try

• Chocolate Pecan Praline Cookies: Stir in mini chocolate chips before dropping.
• Maple Twist: Add 1 tablespoon maple syrup to the praline mixture.
• Nut Mix: Use a mix of pecans, walnuts, and almonds.
• Tropical Touch: Add dried pineapple bits for a chewy surprise.
• Salted Caramel: Sprinkle coarse salt over the tops before cooling.

FAQ’s

Q1. Can I make these without coconut?
Yes, just replace with extra pecans or another nut.

Q2. Do I need a candy thermometer?
No, just boil for about 3 minutes and stir constantly.

Q3. Can I use sweetened condensed milk instead of evaporated milk?
It will be too sweet — evaporated milk is best.

Q4. Can I make these vegan?
Yes, use vegan butter and coconut milk instead of evaporated milk.

Q5. Can I freeze them?
Yes, freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.

Q6. Can I make them smaller?
Of course, use a teaspoon instead of a tablespoon for bite-sized cookies.

Q7. Will they harden completely?
They set to a chewy, praline-like consistency — not rock hard.

Q8. Can I use unsweetened coconut?
Yes, but the cookies will be less sweet overall.

Q9. How long do they take to set?
About 20–30 minutes in the fridge.

Q10. Are these gluten-free?
Yes, naturally gluten-free if all ingredients are certified.

Conclusion

No-Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies are the perfect balance of sweet, nutty, and chewy, with just enough crunch to keep things interesting. They come together quickly, need no oven, and taste like a Southern praline with a tropical twist. Make a batch, share them, and watch them disappear — these little gems are worth every bite.

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