No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies

No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies are the kind of sweet treat that feels like it came straight from a well-loved family recipe box. I remember the first time I made these on a warm afternoon when turning on the oven just wasn’t an option. The smell of sugar bubbling on the stove, the toasted pecans, and that rich vanilla aroma filled the kitchen and instantly reminded me of old-fashioned candy-making days.

These No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies are inspired by classic Southern pralines, but shaped into easy, bite-sized cookies that set beautifully without baking. They’re perfect for holidays, potlucks, cookie swaps, or anytime you need a quick dessert with big flavor. Sweet, nutty, and wonderfully chewy, these cookies always disappear fast.

Why You’ll Love No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies

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Completely no-bake and oven-free
Inspired by classic Southern pecan pralines
Rich, buttery, and packed with coconut and pecans
Ready in about 20 minutes
Perfect for warm weather or last-minute desserts
Easy to customize with chocolate chips or drizzle

Ingredients You’ll Need

- 1 cup granulated sugar
  Forms the sweet praline base and helps the cookies set

- ½ cup unsalted butter
  Adds richness and classic praline flavor
- ½ cup milk (whole or 2%)
  Helps dissolve the sugar and create the candy texture

- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  Adds warmth and depth to the sweetness
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
  Gives the cookies chewiness and coconut flavor

1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
Toasting enhances their nutty richness
Optional: chocolate chips or chocolate drizzle
A delicious finishing touch for chocolate lovers

No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies Ingredients

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare your workspace
  - - Line your counter with waxed paper or a silicone baking mat
  - Measure out all ingredients before starting – timing matters with pralines
2. Cook the sugar mixture
  - - In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, butter, and milk
  - Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the butter melts and sugar dissolves
3. Bring to a boil
  - - Once the mixture reaches a steady boil, stop stirring
    - Let it boil for 2-3 minutes until it reaches the soft-ball stage (235°F-240°F)
  - Don’t worry – this step is what gives the cookies their perfect texture
4. Remove from heat
  - - Take the saucepan off the heat immediately once the temperature is reached
  - Stir in the vanilla extract
5. Add coconut and pecans
  - Stir in the shredded coconut and toasted pecans
  - Mix quickly but thoroughly until everything is evenly coated
6. Optional chocolate addition
  - If using chocolate chips, fold them in now
  - For drizzle instead, set chocolate aside for later

1. Drop the cookies
  - Using a spoon, drop small mounds of the mixture onto the prepared surface
  - Work quickly, as the mixture will begin to firm up

1. Let them set
  - Allow cookies to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes
  - They will firm up as they cool
2. Add chocolate drizzle (optional)
  - Melt chocolate chips and drizzle over cooled cookies
  - Let chocolate set before serving

Serving and Storage Tips

No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies are best enjoyed once fully set, when they hold their shape but still have a soft, chewy bite. They’re wonderful served on dessert trays, alongside coffee or tea, or packaged up as sweet gifts.

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration helps them stay firm. These cookies can also be frozen for up to 2 months – just thaw at room temperature before serving. If stacking, separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Helpful Notes

- Toast pecans lightly in a dry skillet for extra flavor

- Use a candy thermometer for the most consistent results
- Stir constantly until boiling, then stop stirring during the boil
- Work quickly once coconut and pecans are added
- If cookies spread too much, the mixture may not have boiled long enough
- For firmer cookies, let the mixture reach the higher end of the soft-ball range

Fequently Asked Questions

1. Do I really need a candy thermometer?
  It’s highly recommended. The correct temperature ensures the cookies set properly.
2. Why didn’t my cookies firm up?
  The sugar mixture likely didn’t reach the soft-ball stage. Boil an extra 30-60 seconds next time.
3. Can I use unsweetened coconut?
  You can, but the cookies will be less sweet and slightly drier.

Can I add other nuts?
Yes, walnuts or almonds work, but pecans give the most authentic praline flavor.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely – just work quickly when dropping the cookies.

Final Thoughts

No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies are one of those recipes that feel both nostalgic and incredibly practical. I’ve tested this recipe many times, adjusting the boil time and ingredient ratios to get that perfect praline-like texture, and it never disappoints. They’re sweet, buttery, and packed with coconut and toasted pecans – everything a good no-bake cookie should be.