Welcome, dessert lovers! If you’re looking for a sweet treat that’s not only delicious but also easy to make, you’re in the right place. Introducing No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies – a heavenly combination of crunchy pecans, rich coconut, and a caramel-like praline base. These cookies are packed with flavor and will satisfy your sweet tooth without the need to turn on the oven. Perfect for any occasion, this no-bake dessert is sure to impress your friends and family. So, let’s dive into the recipe and discover why these No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies are an absolute must-try!
Introduction
The No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies are a Southern classic, combining the rich, nutty flavors of pecans with the tropical sweetness of coconut, all wrapped up in a buttery, caramelized praline coating. Originating from the American South, pralines are traditionally made by cooking sugar, butter, and cream to a soft-ball stage, but this no-bake version simplifies the process without sacrificing the flavor. These cookies are ideal for warm days when you don’t want to use the oven but still crave a sweet, indulgent treat. If you’re a fan of pecan pralines or coconut-based desserts, you’re in for a delightful surprise with this No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies recipe!
Ingredients for No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies
To make these delightful No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:
- 2½ cups sugar
- ½ cup evaporated milk
- ½ cup corn syrup
- ½ cup butter (unsalted for best results)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-2½ cups chopped pecans (toasted for extra flavor)
- 2½ cups grated coconut (sweetened or unsweetened, depending on your preference)
Optional Substitutions:
- For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk instead of evaporated milk and substitute the butter with vegan butter.
- If you’re allergic to pecans, try using walnuts or almonds.
- You can also use agave syrup instead of corn syrup for a slightly different flavor profile.
How to Make No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies – Step by Step
Step 1:
Set aside the pecans, coconut, and vanilla. These ingredients will be added later, after your praline mixture has cooked to perfection.
Step 2:
In a large saucepan, combine the sugar, evaporated milk, corn syrup, and butter. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir the mixture constantly to ensure the sugar dissolves completely and the butter melts.
Step 3:
Once the mixture comes to a rolling boil, let it cook for 3 minutes. Be careful not to let the mixture burn – stirring continuously is key here. This boiling process helps create the signature praline texture and flavor for the cookies.
Step 4:
Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately stir in the pecans, coconut, and vanilla extract. Stir continuously for about 4 minutes, allowing the mixture to cool slightly while ensuring the pecans and coconut are evenly coated with the praline mixture.
Step 5:
Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a sheet of wax paper. The mixture should hold its shape and create little cookie-sized mounds. Let the cookies sit at room temperature until they’ve hardened.
Step 6:
Once the cookies have set and are firm to the touch, carefully remove them from the wax paper and enjoy! These cookies are ready to be devoured, with their delightful combination of chewy coconut and crunchy pecans in every bite.
Helpful Tips for No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies
- Use fresh pecans: Toast the pecans in the oven or on the stovetop before adding them to the mixture. Toasting the nuts enhances their flavor, giving the cookies a richer taste.
- Avoid overcooking the praline mixture: Keep an eye on the boiling mixture to avoid burning. Boiling for too long can make the cookies too hard once they’ve set.
- Customize your sweetness level: If you prefer your cookies less sweet, use unsweetened coconut. You can also reduce the sugar to 2 cups instead of 2½ cups.
Cooking Tips for the Best No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies
Praline Texture Hacks:
For the perfect praline texture, cook the mixture just long enough to reach a soft-ball stage, which is around 235-240°F on a candy thermometer. This ensures your cookies will be chewy, not too hard or soft.
Butter Substitute for a Softer Cookie:
Using margarine or vegan butter instead of regular butter can result in a slightly softer cookie. This is especially useful if you prefer a chewier texture.
Chill Time:
If you want your cookies to set faster, place them in the fridge for about 15 minutes. This helps them harden quickly and makes them easier to handle.
Serving Suggestions for No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies
These No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. For a more indulgent treat, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle them with melted chocolate for a rich, dessert-like experience. You can also add them to a dessert platter with other Southern treats like pecan pie bars or coconut macaroons for a sweet, shareable spread.
For an elegant presentation, serve the cookies on a transparent glass plate, allowing the textures and colors of the praline, coconut, and pecans to stand out. Add a sprinkle of coconut flakes or a drizzle of caramel on top to enhance the visual appeal.
Nutritional Information
These No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies offer a delightful balance of fats, carbohydrates, and protein thanks to the pecans and coconut. Although they are a sweet treat, the pecans provide healthy fats and protein, while the coconut adds fiber to the mix.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 225
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 60mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 22g
- Protein: 2g
Storage and Leftovers for No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies
Room Temperature:
Store your No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Be sure to separate layers with wax paper to prevent them from sticking together.
Refrigeration:
If you prefer a firmer cookie, you can store them in the fridge. They will last up to two weeks in an airtight container.
Freezing:
These cookies also freeze well! Place them in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with wax paper, and store them for up to 3 months. To enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
4 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies
- Can I make these cookies dairy-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the evaporated milk with coconut milk and the butter with vegan butter for a dairy-free version. - What if I don’t have corn syrup?
You can replace the corn syrup with honey or agave syrup for a slightly different but still delicious flavor. - How long do these cookies take to set?
The cookies usually set in about 30 minutes at room temperature. You can speed up the process by refrigerating them. - Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or even cashews work well in this recipe.
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Conclusion
And there you have it – an easy and delicious recipe for No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies. This recipe is perfect for when you’re short on time but still want to enjoy a homemade treat with minimal effort. Whether you’re serving them at a party, giving them as gifts, or simply enjoying them with your family, these cookies are sure to be a hit! We’d love to hear how they turned out for you, so feel free to leave a comment below with your feedback or any variations you made to the recipe. Happy no-baking!