Easy No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe

If you adore the flavors of classic Southern pralines combined with soft, nutty coconut confections, this recipe for Easy No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies will absolutely win your heart. In just minutes, you can whip up a batch packed with buttery richness, sweet caramel notes, and irresistible crunch that feels homemade in the best way (no oven needed!). These cookies are luscious, hearty, and a total crowd-pleaser—perfect for holidays, potlucks, or satisfying a weeknight sweet tooth.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how just a few simple pantry staples come together to create something this decadent. Every ingredient in these Easy No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies plays a key role in delivering bold flavor, a fudgy texture, and that signature Southern charm.

• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create the beautiful praline texture.
• Brown Sugar (light or dark): Deepens the flavor with rich molasses undertones for a classic praline taste.
• Evaporated Milk: Lends richness and creaminess, setting these cookies apart from typical no-bake recipes.
• Unsalted Butter: Brings buttery goodness and a melt-in-your-mouth finish.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds warm, aromatic notes that tie everything together.
• Chopped Pecans: Promise the essential nutty crunch and true Southern flair.
• Sweetened Shredded Coconut: Delivers chew, sweetness, and gorgeous texture in every bite.
• Pinch of Salt: Balances all the sweetness and enhances every single flavor.

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. This small step ensures effortless release of your praline cookies once they’ve set, and makes for super easy clean-up afterward.

Step 2: Boil Sugars, Milk & Butter

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, evaporated milk, and unsalted butter. Stir the mixture constantly—the sugars will dissolve smoothly and everything will meld into a creamy caramel base.

Step 3: Cook Until Slightly Thickened

Keep stirring as the mixture comes to a boil. Once boiling, let it bubble for 3 to 4 minutes while you stir frequently. It should thicken up a bit, turning glossy and slightly golden. Watch closely: you want it thick but still pourable.

Step 4: Add Flavor & Texture

Remove the saucepan from the heat. Immediately stir in the vanilla extract, chopped pecans, shredded coconut, and a pinch of salt. Mix well so the nuts and coconut are evenly coated with the caramel.

Step 5: Drop and Set the Cookies

Work quickly now—using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop heaping spoonfuls of the mixture onto your prepared baking sheet. Leave some space between each cookie as they will spread just a bit. Let them cool and set at room temperature for 30 to 45 minutes, until firm.

How to Serve Easy No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies

Garnishes

For extra flair, drizzle your Easy No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies with melted chocolate or sprinkle with a touch of flaky sea salt. A dusting of powdered sugar can also add a festive, snowy touch for the holidays.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with strong coffee, a mug of chai tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dreamy dessert plate. Try serving them alongside fresh fruit for a lighter touch after a hearty meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your Easy No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies in a rustic basket lined with colorful napkins, or pile them high on a tiered cake stand for a party. They also make a stunning edible gift packaged in a clear cellophane bag tied with ribbon—a sweet reminder that homemade treats always hit the spot.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Easy No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies at their best, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and chewy for up to a week, making them perfect for snacking or entertaining on short notice.

Freezing

Want to enjoy these little delights at a later date? Simply freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months; just thaw at room temperature before serving for best flavor and texture.

Reheating

If you prefer your Easy No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies just a bit warmer, pop them in the microwave for 5 to 10 seconds. This will bring back a touch of that freshly-set, melt-in-your-mouth magic.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! While pecans bring traditional Southern flavor, you can swap in walnuts, almonds, or even cashews. Each nut gives a slightly different crunch and flavor, so feel free to experiment with what you have on hand.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, Easy No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check your vanilla extract and other packaged ingredients to be sure if you have dietary concerns.

Can I make these cookies less sweet?

If you prefer a less sweet cookie, try reducing the granulated sugar by 1/4 cup, or use unsweetened coconut instead of sweetened. Just remember that the sweetness is key to holding the cookies together, so don’t cut back too much.

Is it possible to toast the pecans beforehand?

Toasting the pecans before mixing them in adds a deep, roasted flavor that many cookie lovers adore. Simply roast chopped pecans in a skillet or in the oven for a few minutes until fragrant, then proceed as directed.

Do I need a candy thermometer?

No candy thermometer required! That’s the beauty of these Easy No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies—the mixture thickens just enough while boiling, and you can rely on texture and appearance alone for perfect results.

Final Thoughts

These Easy No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies are the kind of treat you’ll make once and crave forever—sweet, chewy, and wonderfully comforting. Give them a try, and don’t be surprised if they become your go-to for sharing joy (or savoring some well-deserved you-time with a cup of coffee). Happy baking—no oven mitts required!

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