Easy No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe

If you’re craving something sweet, nutty, chewy, and irresistibly indulgent, this Easy No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe is the treat you’ve been waiting for. Whether you’re short on time or simply avoiding turning on the oven, this delightful Southern-style dessert delivers major flavor without the fuss. With rich brown sugar, toasted pecans, and sweet shredded coconut, these chewy cookie clusters will be your new go-to when you need a quick fix for a sugar craving.

Let’s dive into the heartwarming simplicity of these cookies and discover why they’ve earned their spot in the pantheon of no-bake classics.

Why You’ll Love It

• Quick & Easy – Comes together in under 20 minutes
• No Oven Required – Perfect for hot weather or busy days
• Crowd-Pleaser – Loved by adults and kids alike
• Rich Flavor – Caramelized sugar, buttery pecans, and coconut
• Perfect Texture – Chewy, soft centers with a delicate crunch
• Budget-Friendly – Pantry staples come together in a luxurious treat
• Versatile – Great for holidays, potlucks, or everyday snacks
• Naturally Gluten-Free – No flour needed!

Ingredients

• 1½ cups granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and structure
• ¾ cup packed brown sugar – Enhances caramel flavor with molasses notes
• ½ cup whole milk – Helps dissolve sugars and create a creamy base
• ½ cup unsalted butter – Richness and classic praline taste
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Warm aromatic base flavor
• 2 cups chopped pecans – Crunchy, nutty texture and flavor (toast for extra depth)
• 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut – Adds chew and tropical sweetness

Substitutions:

• Use evaporated milk for a creamier consistency.
• Replace pecans with walnuts or almonds if desired.
• Swap vanilla with maple extract for a fall twist.

How to Make It

Step 1: Prepare Your Station

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This ensures your praline cookies won’t stick and cool properly.

Step 2: Make the Sugar Base

In a medium saucepan, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, milk, and butter over medium heat. Stir gently until the mixture begins to boil.

Science tip: The mixture reaches the “soft-ball stage” (235–245°F) which is ideal for chewy no-bake cookies.

Step 3: Add Flavor

Remove the pan from heat and immediately stir in the vanilla extract, pecans, and shredded coconut. Mix well until evenly coated.

Step 4: Drop & Set

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls onto your prepared baking sheet. Let them cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes until they’re firm.

Pro Tips

How do you make no bake pecan coconut praline cookies?

Carefully control the temperature while boiling the sugar mix. Too hot, and the cookies will be brittle; too cool, and they won’t set.

Can I make praline cookies without baking?

Yes! These rely on stovetop caramelization and cooling to form a perfect texture.

What ingredients are in no bake pecan coconut cookies?

Just basic pantry staples: sugars, milk, butter, pecans, and coconut.

Extra Tips:

• Toast your pecans and coconut beforehand for a richer flavor.
• If the mixture thickens before you scoop, reheat slightly to loosen.
• For extra indulgence, drizzle with melted dark chocolate.

Best Ways to Serve

These praline bites are versatile and can elevate any occasion:

• With coffee or afternoon tea
• As a Southern-style holiday dessert
• Packed in treat bags for gifts
• Alongside vanilla ice cream

Related Recipes:

• Southern Pecan Pie Bars
• No-Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies

Nutrition (Per Cookie)

• Calories: 180
• Fat: 11g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Sugar: 16g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 25mg

Storage & Leftovers

• Room Temp: Store in an airtight container up to 1 week.
• Fridge: Up to 2 weeks for extra firmness.
• Freeze: Flash-freeze on the sheet, then transfer to freezer bags for 2 months.
• To Serve: Bring to room temp or enjoy chilled for a firmer bite.

FAQs

Do no bake praline cookies need refrigeration?

Not necessarily, but refrigerating helps preserve freshness longer.

How long do pecan coconut praline cookies last?

Up to 7 days at room temperature or 2 months frozen.

Can I freeze no bake praline cookies?

Yes, they freeze well and defrost quickly for a convenient treat.

What’s the best way to keep no bake cookies from sticking?

Always use parchment or silicone mats, and don’t skip the cooling period.

Can I substitute walnuts for pecans in praline cookies?

Absolutely. Walnuts, almonds, or even macadamia nuts work well.

Why didn’t my praline cookies set properly?

Your sugar mixture may not have reached the correct temperature. Use a candy thermometer next time.

Are no bake pecan coconut cookies gluten-free?

Yes! No flour or gluten-containing ingredients.

Variations

• Chocolate Swirl: Stir in mini chocolate chips or drizzle with chocolate.
• Vegan Version: Use vegan butter and almond or oat milk.
• Maple Twist: Replace vanilla with maple extract.
• Spiced Version: Add cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg.
• Nut-Free: Use sunflower seeds or chopped dates instead of pecans.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Now that you know how easy and irresistible this Easy No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe is, it’s time to treat yourself and your loved ones. With minimal effort and maximum reward, this sweet Southern treat is bound to become a family favorite.

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