If you love easy desserts and crave a sweet treat loaded with toasted nuts, coconut, and a buttery praline flavor, these No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies belong at the top of your must-try list! This recipe transforms just a handful of kitchen staples into irresistibly chewy cookies that look beautiful and taste like pure Southern comfort. No oven needed, just a saucepan, a spoon, and about ten minutes of hands-on time. Whether you’re hosting a party, baking with kids, or just want to satisfy your sweet tooth without heating up the kitchen, these are the cookies to bookmark.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in these cookies genuinely matters — each one brings something special, whether it’s flavor, texture, or that praline magic. Here’s what you’ll need and why:
- Granulated Sugar: Forms the sweet, glossy base and ensures the classic praline-style texture.
- Unsalted Butter: Delivers richness and helps everything meld together beautifully.
- Evaporated Milk: Adds creaminess and helps create a fudge-like consistency without being heavy.
- Vanilla Extract: Lifts all the flavors with its warm, aromatic notes.
- Quick-Cooking Oats: Gives the cookies structure and chew; these oats bind together quickly and evenly.
- Shredded Sweetened Coconut: Offers tropical sweetness plus that classic coconut stretch in every bite.
- Chopped Pecans: Lends irresistible southern flair, crunch, and a nutty depth that pairs so well with coconut.
How to Make No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies
Step 1: Boil the Base
Start by adding the granulated sugar, unsalted butter, and evaporated milk to a medium-sized saucepan. Set the pan over medium heat and gently stir everything together as the butter melts and the sugar dissolves. This mixture is key; it’s what binds the cookies and gives them that signature praline gloss.
Step 2: Cook to Perfection
Once your mixture begins bubbling, keep stirring and allow it to boil for 4 minutes. Don’t walk away! The steady boil is what caramelizes the sugar and creates that irresistible praline flavor. Keep scraping the bottom of the pan so nothing sticks or burns.
Step 3: Flavor Boost
Take the saucepan off the heat and quickly stir in the vanilla extract. The burst of vanilla at this stage infuses the hot syrup with deep, warming flavors, making the cookies taste extra homemade.
Step 4: Add the Heart and Soul
Dump in the quick-cooking oats, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans while the mixture is hot. Stir everything together until all the dry ingredients are coated in that sticky, sweet sauce and everything looks delightfully clumpy. It will smell like a dream!
Step 5: Shape and Set
Using a spoon, drop mounds of the mixture onto waxed paper or a silicone mat. Work quickly because the mixture will begin to set as it cools. Let the cookies cool at room temperature until firm, about 30 minutes. That’s it — your No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies are ready to enjoy!
How to Serve No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies
Garnishes
For a picture-perfect finish, sprinkle a little extra shredded coconut or a few chopped pecans on top of the cookies just before they set. Even a light dusting of flaky sea salt can add an elegant touch and sharpen the flavors.
Side Dishes
Pair your No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies with fresh fruit, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a mug of coffee or chai for a cozy vibe. Their chewy texture and sweetness balance beautifully with tart or creamy accompaniments.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack these cookies on a rustic wooden board, tuck them into treat bags for thoughtful gifts, or pile them high on a tiered dessert stand for parties. You can even sandwich a thin smear of chocolate ganache between two cookies for a surprise twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh and delicious for up to one week, making them perfect for snack stashes and lunchboxes.
Freezing
Freeze these cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a resealable bag or airtight container. They’ll keep well for up to three months; just grab a few anytime you want a sweet treat. Thaw at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before enjoying.
Reheating
While there’s no need to reheat these cookies, if you prefer them slightly warm and gooey, pop one in the microwave for just 5-10 seconds. It’ll soften slightly and release even more coconut and pecan aroma – pure comfort!
FAQs
Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of quick-cooking oats?
Yes! Old-fashioned oats make the cookies a bit chewier and heartier. If you like more texture and nutty bite, go for the old-fashioned version. Just know the mixture might be slightly chunkier.
Is it possible to make these cookies dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and use coconut or almond milk in place of evaporated milk. The cookies will still be rich and delicious, with a subtle twist on flavor.
Do I need a candy thermometer for this recipe?
No thermometer is required! Simply time the mixture for four minutes of boiling and keep stirring; that’s all you need for a perfect praline texture.
Why aren’t my cookies setting up?
If the cookies stay soft or gooey, it might be because the base didn’t boil long enough. Try boiling slightly longer next time to ensure everything sets up with that just-right chewy texture.
Can I add chocolate or dried fruit?
Definitely! Mini chocolate chips, white chocolate chunks, or chopped dried fruit like cranberries or cherries make excellent additions. Just stir them in quickly with the oats, coconut, and pecans.
Final Thoughts
Give these No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies a whirl the next time you want something ultra-satisfying and full of nostalgic flavor, with zero baking fuss. From casual snacks to special occasions, they bring a little joy and Southern charm to any day, and I promise they’ll disappear from your cookie jar in no time!
Print
No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these delightful No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies that are easy to make and perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings. These chewy, nutty cookies are a quick treat that requires no baking!
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups quick-cooking oats
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, butter, and evaporated milk. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Once boiling, continue to cook and stir for 4 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Add oats, coconut, and pecans; mix until well combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto waxed paper or a silicone mat.
- Let cool completely until set, about 30 minutes.
Notes
- For a chewier texture, use old-fashioned oats instead of quick-cooking.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 50 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 23 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
