These chewy, flavorful No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies are loaded with the nutty goodness of toasted pecans and the tropical sweetness of coconut. Perfect for a quick dessert or holiday treat, these cookies come together in just minutes—no oven required!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and quick to make with no baking involved.
- Packed with crunchy pecans and sweet coconut for a satisfying texture.
- Customizable for dietary preferences like dairy-free or nut-free.
- Perfect for holidays, parties, or whenever you need a quick sweet treat.
- A rich and indulgent flavor reminiscent of pralines.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2½ cups sugar
- ½ cup evaporated milk
- ½ cup corn syrup
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2–2½ cups chopped pecans (toasted)
- 2½ cups grated coconut
Optional Substitutions:
- Use coconut milk and vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
- Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
- Try agave syrup in place of corn syrup for a natural sweetener alternative.
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Set aside the pecans, coconut, and vanilla extract. Toast the pecans if desired for enhanced flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Base Mixture
- In a medium-sized saucepan, combine sugar, evaporated milk, corn syrup, and butter.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Boil the Mixture
- Bring the mixture to a boil and let it cook for 3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning or sticking.
Step 4: Add Flavor and Texture
- Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the prepared pecans, coconut, and vanilla extract until everything is evenly mixed.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
- Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a sheet of wax paper, forming cookie shapes.
- Allow the cookies to cool and harden completely at room temperature.
Step 6: Enjoy
- Once the cookies are set, they’re ready to be enjoyed!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 24 cookies
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate Delight: Add a handful of mini chocolate chips to the mixture after removing from heat.
- Nut-Free Version: Replace pecans with sunflower seeds or omit nuts entirely.
- Tropical Twist: Mix in a bit of dried pineapple or mango for extra flavor.
- Spiced Flavor: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.
- Crispy Crunch: Stir in a cup of crushed graham crackers or rice cereal for added texture.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezing: Freeze the cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I use sweetened coconut instead of grated coconut?
Yes, but reduce the sugar slightly to avoid overly sweet cookies.
2. How do I toast pecans?
Spread pecans on a baking sheet and toast in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
Yes, but it will give the cookies a deeper caramel flavor.
4. Can I make these cookies vegan?
Yes, substitute evaporated milk with coconut milk and use vegan butter.
5. Why are my cookies too soft?
Ensure the mixture is boiled for the full 3 minutes. Undercooking can result in a softer texture.
6. Can I add other mix-ins?
Absolutely! Try adding dried fruit, chopped candy bars, or crushed pretzels.
7. How do I prevent the mixture from sticking to the wax paper?
Lightly grease the wax paper with cooking spray before dropping the mixture.
8. What if the mixture hardens before I shape the cookies?
Reheat the mixture gently over low heat to soften it again.
9. Can I make smaller or larger cookies?
Yes, just adjust the spoonful size and cooling time accordingly.
10. Are these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all ingredients used are certified gluten-free.
Conclusion
No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies are the perfect blend of chewy, crunchy, and sweet flavors. With their rich praline-inspired taste and easy preparation, these cookies are ideal for busy days, holidays, or whenever a craving strikes. Customize them to suit your preferences and enjoy this delightful, fuss-free treat!
PrintNo Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups sugar
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup corn syrup
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2–2 1/2 cups chopped pecans (toasted for extra flavor)
- 2 1/2 cups grated coconut
Optional Substitutions:
- Replace evaporated milk and butter with coconut milk and vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
- Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds.
- Use agave syrup instead of corn syrup for a natural sweetener option
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients
- Measure and set aside the pecans, coconut, and vanilla extract for easy mixing later.
- Make the Praline Mixture
- In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, evaporated milk, corn syrup, and butter.
- Stir the mixture over medium heat until smooth and well combined.
- Boil the Mixture
- Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for 3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning or sticking.
- Add Remaining Ingredients
- Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the pecans, coconut, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Form the Cookies
- Drop spoonfuls of the praline mixture onto a baking sheet lined with wax paper.
- Allow the cookies to cool and harden at room temperature.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Once set, your cookies are ready to be enjoyed! Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Toasting the pecans before adding enhances their nutty flavor.
- Be careful not to overcook the mixture, as it may affect the texture of the cookies.
- Adjust the sweetness to your preference by reducing the sugar slightly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 225kcal
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