Easy No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe
If you’re craving a treat that delivers rich Southern flavor without turning on the oven, these Easy No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies are about to become your new obsession. Imagine the irresistible combination of buttery praline, toasty pecans, and chewy coconut—all coming together in under an hour. This recipe checks every box for a quick, crowd-pleasing dessert that feels both nostalgic and exciting, whether you’re whipping up a last-minute party platter or cozying up with a cup of coffee. Each bite offers that signature praline snap and melt-in-your-mouth finish, all from the simplest pantry staples.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Easy No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies is how they take a handful of everyday ingredients and transform them into something extraordinary. Each component has a purpose: building structure, lending sweetness, or providing texture, so don’t skip or substitute unless you’re ready for an adventure!
- Granulated sugar: The main source of sweetness and the foundation of that classic praline texture.
- Brown sugar: Adds depth with its caramel notes and helps achieve that chewy consistency.
- Whole milk: Provides moisture and richness, ensuring the cookies hold together beautifully.
- Unsalted butter: Brings a melt-in-your-mouth quality and rounds out the praline flavor.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the nutty, buttery notes and brings warmth to every bite.
- Chopped pecans: The star nut—add them for crunch and that unmistakable Southern flair. Toast for extra flavor if you have time!
- Sweetened shredded coconut: The chewy, tropical touch that makes these cookies so unique and satisfying.
- Salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness and amplifies all the other flavors.
How to Make Easy No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper and setting it aside within easy reach. This step makes cleanup a breeze and ensures your praline cookies won’t stick—plus, you’ll want to work quickly once the mixture is ready!
Step 2: Combine the Sugars, Milk, and Butter
In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, whole milk, and unsalted butter. Stir these together over medium heat, ensuring the butter melts completely and everything is evenly mixed. This is the base for your praline magic.
Step 3: Bring to a Boil and Cook
Continue stirring constantly as the mixture heats up. Once it reaches a full rolling boil (lots of bubbles, not just simmering), set a timer and let it boil for 3 minutes. Keep stirring the whole time—this prevents scorching and helps the sugars dissolve fully for that signature smooth praline texture.
Step 4: Add the Flavorings and Mix-Ins
Remove the saucepan from the heat as soon as your timer goes off. Immediately stir in the vanilla extract, salt, chopped pecans, and shredded coconut. Work quickly and mix until everything is thoroughly coated and the mixture thickens up slightly. This step brings the dough together and evenly distributes all the flavors and textures.
Step 5: Form the Cookies
Using a spoon, quickly drop generous spoonfuls of the mixture onto your prepared baking sheet. Shape them into rounds if you like. The mixture sets fast, so don’t dawdle—this is the fun, slightly messy part!
Step 6: Let Cool and Set
Let your cookies cool at room temperature for about 30 to 45 minutes. They’ll firm up and develop that lovely praline snap. Once set, they’re ready to enjoy—no oven required!
How to Serve Easy No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies
Garnishes
For a little extra flair, consider sprinkling a pinch of flaky sea salt or a light dusting of powdered sugar over your cookies just before serving. A drizzle of melted dark chocolate can also take these Easy No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies to the next level for special occasions.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair beautifully with a cold glass of milk, a mug of strong coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a dessert platter, surround them with fresh berries or sliced fruit for a refreshing contrast to their rich sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Layer your cookies between sheets of wax paper in a decorative tin for gifting, or arrange them on a rustic wooden board lined with parchment for a Southern-inspired dessert table. You can even skewer them on lollipop sticks for a playful, portable treat!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Easy No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and chewy for up to five days, making them perfect for snacking or lunchbox surprises.
Freezing
To freeze, arrange the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to set, then transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. They’ll keep for up to three months—just thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
While these cookies are meant to be enjoyed at room temperature, if you want to revive their just-made texture, let them sit out for 10-15 minutes if chilled. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them too soft or sticky.
FAQs
Can I use unsweetened coconut instead of sweetened?
Yes, you can substitute unsweetened shredded coconut, but the cookies will be a little less sweet and slightly drier. If you make this swap, you might want to add a touch more vanilla or an extra tablespoon of milk.
What if I don’t have pecans—can I use another nut?
Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds work well in place of pecans. Each nut brings its own personality, but you’ll still get that delicious praline crunch. Just be sure to chop them to a similar size.
Do Easy No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies hold up in humid weather?
These cookies can get a bit sticky in very humid conditions. If you live somewhere muggy, try storing them in the fridge and separating layers with wax paper to keep them from sticking together.
Can I make these cookies dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute a non-dairy milk (like coconut or almond milk) and a plant-based butter. The flavor will change slightly, but the recipe will still work beautifully.
How do I know when the mixture is ready to be dropped onto the baking sheet?
After boiling for 3 minutes and mixing in all the add-ins, the mixture should look glossy and thicken up a bit. If it starts to hold its shape when you scoop it, you’re ready to go. If not, let it sit for another 30 seconds off the heat.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about making a batch of Easy No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies—no oven, no fuss, just pure, sweet satisfaction. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or sneaking one as a midnight treat, I hope you find them as delightful and irresistible as I do. Give them a try and let their Southern charm win you over!
Print
Easy No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Easy No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies are a delightful Southern-inspired treat featuring a rich, buttery praline base combined with toasted pecans and sweet shredded coconut. Perfect for a quick dessert fix without heating up your oven, these cookies offer a delicious blend of crunchy nuts, chewy coconut, and caramelized sweetness in every bite.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 1 ½ cups chopped pecans
- 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup whole milk
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside to quickly place the cookies once the mixture is ready.
- Make the Praline Mixture: In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, milk, and butter. Stir constantly until the mixture reaches a full rolling boil.
- Boil and Stir: Continue boiling the mixture for 3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
- Remove from Heat and Add Flavor: Take the pan off the heat and immediately stir in the vanilla extract, salt, chopped pecans, and shredded coconut. Mix until all ingredients are fully coated and the mixture thickens slightly.
- Shape the Cookies: Working quickly, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Shape them into rounds if necessary before they start to harden.
- Cool and Set: Let the cookies cool at room temperature for 30 to 45 minutes until they are firm and set.
Notes
- For the best texture, do not overboil the mixture; 3 minutes boiling time is ideal.
- Toasting the pecans beforehand deepens their flavor and adds extra crunch.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
