No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies – Irresistible Southern-Style Sweet Treat
When it comes to quick and indulgent desserts, these No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies are a true gem. With the rich, nutty crunch of pecans, the sweetness of coconut, and the buttery caramel praline coating, they bring Southern-inspired flavors to your table without ever needing to turn on the oven. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these cookies are a must-try for anyone who loves easy desserts packed with flavor.
On my About page, I share how I grew up surrounded by classic family recipes that often included pecans, coconut, and caramel-style pralines during the holiday season. This recipe is one of those comforting reminders of home, but with a no-bake twist that makes it even easier for busy bakers today.
Why You’ll Love No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies
No oven required – these praline cookies set right on your countertop.
Fast & simple – from start to finish, they take under 30 minutes.
Sweet, nutty, and chewy – combining coconut, pecans, and praline caramel.
Perfect for gatherings – they’re sturdy, transportable, and look elegant on dessert trays.
Great holiday recipe – these cookies fit right in with festive desserts like Salted Caramel Pecan Cheesecake Dip and fudge.
No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies – Irresistible Southern-Style Sweet Treat
Ingredients
- 2 cups pecans
- 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup evaporated milk
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- ½ cup 1 stick unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Toast the pecans: In a dry skillet over medium heat, lightly toast pecans for 3–4 minutes until fragrant. Remove and set aside.
- Combine base ingredients: In a medium saucepan, add granulated sugar, brown sugar, evaporated milk, corn syrup, butter, and salt.
- Cook the mixture: Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring often. Once boiling, cook for 3–4 minutes until the mixture reaches soft-ball stage (about 235°F on a candy thermometer).
- Add flavorings: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Mix in coconut and pecans: Quickly fold in the shredded coconut and toasted pecans until evenly coated.
- Scoop the cookies: Drop heaping tablespoons of the mixture onto parchment or wax paper.
- Let set: Allow cookies to cool and firm up at room temperature for 30–40 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Work quickly when mixing and scooping, as the praline mixture sets fast.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- For extra depth, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top before the cookies set.
Ingredients You’ll Need
2 cups pecans – chopped or halved for texture and crunch
2 cups sweetened shredded coconut – adds chewy sweetness
1 ½ cups sugar – helps form the praline base
1 cup brown sugar – deepens the caramel-like flavor
½ cup evaporated milk – creamy richness for the candy base
½ cup light corn syrup – prevents crystallization and keeps the texture smooth
½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick) – for richness and flavor
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – warm aromatic balance
½ teaspoon salt – enhances the flavors
How to Make No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies
Step 1 – Prepare your baking sheet
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will prevent the cookies from sticking as they set.
Step 2 – Combine the praline mixture
In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, brown sugar, evaporated milk, corn syrup, butter, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the butter melts and the sugars dissolve.
Step 3 – Bring to a boil
Increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a boil. Continue boiling for about 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently. You want the mixture to reach a soft-ball stage (around 235°F if using a candy thermometer).
Step 4 – Add flavor and texture
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in vanilla extract, shredded coconut, and pecans. Work quickly, as the mixture will begin to thicken.
Step 5 – Scoop the cookies
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded portions of the praline mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
Step 6 – Let them set
Allow the cookies to cool and set at room temperature until firm. This usually takes about 30 minutes.
Pro Tips for the Best Praline Cookies
Work quickly – once the praline mixture is off the heat, it sets fast. Have your coconut and pecans ready to stir in immediately.
Check candy temperature – if you want precise results, use a candy thermometer to reach soft-ball stage.
Chop pecans finely – for cookies that hold together better, chop the pecans instead of using halves.
Add a drizzle – melt white or dark chocolate and drizzle over the cookies for extra flair.
Variations to Try
Chocolate Pecan Praline Cookies – stir in ½ cup mini chocolate chips after removing the mixture from heat.
Bourbon twist – add 1 tablespoon bourbon to the caramel mixture right before stirring in the pecans and coconut for a Southern holiday touch.
Nut swap – replace pecans with walnuts or almonds if desired.
Toasted coconut – lightly toast the shredded coconut for a deeper flavor.
Best Pairings
These cookies are sweet and rich, so they pair beautifully with:
Freshly brewed coffee or espresso
A glass of cold milk
Vanilla ice cream for a praline-cookie sundae
Other festive desserts like Crab-Stuffed Salmon dinner followed by praline cookies for a balanced holiday menu.
Storage Tips
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Refrigerator: Keep for up to 2 weeks for a firmer texture.
Freezer: Layer cookies with parchment paper in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
FAQs About No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! These cookies actually taste better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Why did my praline cookies turn grainy?
This happens if the sugar crystallizes. Stir constantly and make sure your corn syrup is added, as it prevents crystallization.
Can I use unsweetened coconut?
You can, but the cookies won’t be as sweet. If you use unsweetened, consider increasing the sugar slightly.
Do I need a candy thermometer?
It’s not mandatory, but it helps ensure you reach the soft-ball stage. Without one, watch for the mixture to thicken and bubble steadily for 3–4 minutes.
Nutrition Facts (per cookie, approx. 24 cookies)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 185 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 18 g |
| Sodium | 70 mg |
Conclusion
These No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies are a delightful Southern-inspired treat that combine the rich crunch of pecans, the chewy sweetness of coconut, and the caramel-like praline coating. With no oven required and just a handful of pantry ingredients, they’re the perfect dessert to whip up for holidays, family gatherings, or a simple weeknight indulgence.
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s easy, fast, and guaranteed to impress, this praline cookie recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.
