No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies

When it comes to indulgent desserts that don’t require an oven, No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies steal the show. Sweet, nutty, and packed with texture, these cookies combine shredded coconut, chopped pecans, oats, and a rich, buttery praline mixture that sets perfectly without baking.

Perfect for busy weeknights, holiday treats, or an easy dessert for parties, this recipe is a no-fuss way to enjoy classic flavors with minimal effort. They’re chewy, crunchy, and just the right amount of sweet a dessert that feels fancy but is incredibly simple to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• ✔ No baking required: Perfect for hot days or when your oven is busy.
• ✔ Rich, nutty flavor: Pecans and coconut pair beautifully with the buttery praline mixture.
• ✔ Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, from start to finish.
• ✔ Great for gifting: Wrap them up for friends, family, or neighbors—they’re always a hit.
• ✔ Customizable: Add chocolate chips, dried fruit, or swap nuts for variety.

Ingredients Breakdown

Yield: About 24–30 cookies

• 1.5 cups shredded coconut
• 1 cup pecans, chopped
• 0.5 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 0.5 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 0.25 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
• 2 cups quick oats

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Medium saucepan
• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet or tray
• Parchment paper or silicone mat
• Cookie scoop or spoon

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Workspace

Line a baking sheet or tray with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This ensures the cookies set properly and prevents sticking.

2. Toast the Pecans and Coconut (Optional)

For extra flavor, lightly toast 1 cup chopped pecans and 1.5 cups shredded coconut in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

3. Make the Praline Mixture

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine:

• 0.5 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 0.5 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 0.25 teaspoon salt

Stir constantly until the mixture is smooth and bubbly, about 4–5 minutes.

4. Add Flavorings

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in:

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon (if using)

5. Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

• 2 cups quick oats
• Toasted or raw coconut
• Toasted or raw pecans

Mix thoroughly so that the nuts and coconut are evenly distributed.

6. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the hot praline mixture over the oat, coconut, and pecan mixture. Stir quickly and thoroughly to ensure every bit is coated with the sweet, buttery mixture.

7. Scoop and Shape

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop mounds of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Gently press the tops for a more uniform cookie shape.

8. Set the Cookies

Allow the cookies to cool and set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. For faster setting, place them in the fridge for 15–20 minutes.

9. Serve and Enjoy

Once set, transfer to a plate or airtight container. Enjoy immediately or store for later indulgence.

Tips & Variations

• Chocolate Lovers: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies for a decadent touch.
• Nut-Free Option: Replace pecans with sunflower seeds or omit entirely.
• Coconut-Free Variation: Swap coconut for additional oats or chopped nuts.
• Spiced Twist: Add 0.25 teaspoon nutmeg or allspice for a holiday flavor.
• Chewy Texture: Use quick oats for soft, chewy cookies; old-fashioned oats will make them denser.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

• Texture: Chewy from oats, slightly crunchy from toasted pecans, and lightly crisp edges from the coconut.
• Taste: Sweet, nutty, and buttery with a hint of caramel from the praline mixture.

Suggested Pairings:

• Drink Pairings: Hot coffee, spiced chai latte, or milk.
• Occasions: Perfect for dessert tables, afternoon snacks, or gifting during the holidays.
• Serving: Arrange on a festive plate or in a decorative tin for presentation.

Nutritional Overview (Per Cookie)

Component	Amount (Approx.)
Calories	150–180 kcal
Protein	2 g
Carbohydrates	20 g
Fat	7–9 g
Fiber	2 g

Dietary Notes: Naturally vegetarian. Can be made gluten-free by using certified GF oats.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• Storage: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Travel-Friendly: These cookies are sturdy enough to bring to parties or pack for lunchboxes.

FAQs

1. Can I use unsweetened condensed milk instead of sweetened?
Yes, but add a tablespoon of sugar or honey to maintain sweetness.

2. Can I skip the coconut?
Yes, but the coconut adds flavor, chewiness, and texture. You can replace it with additional oats or chopped nuts.

3. Do the cookies need to be refrigerated?
Not necessarily, but refrigeration speeds up setting. Room temperature works fine for same-day consumption.

4. Can I make smaller or larger cookies?
Yes! Just adjust the cooling time accordingly. Smaller cookies set faster; larger cookies may take longer.

5. Can I substitute other nuts?
Almonds, walnuts, or pecan halves work well. Toasting enhances flavor.

Cooking Timeline (at a Glance)

Step	Time
Prep ingredients	5–10 mins
Toast nuts & coconut	3–4 mins
Make praline mixture	5 mins
Mix and scoop cookies	5–7 mins
Set cookies	30–45 mins
Total	~50–70 mins

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon snack.
• Arrange on a holiday dessert platter alongside brownies and fudge.
• Wrap in decorative cellophane for gifting.

Recipe Variations

1. Chocolate Coconut Pecan Cookies: Fold in 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips.
2. Maple Pecan Cookies: Swap vanilla for 1 teaspoon pure maple extract.
3. Holiday Spice Cookies: Add 0.25 teaspoon nutmeg and allspice for festive flavors.
4. Vegan Option: Use coconut condensed milk or sweetened nut milk to replace dairy condensed milk and butter.

Ingredient Spotlight

Pecans: Pecans are naturally buttery and sweet, making them a perfect complement to caramel-like praline flavors. Toast them lightly to enhance aroma and crunch.

Shredded Coconut: Adds chewiness, natural sweetness, and a tropical touch. Use unsweetened for a less sweet cookie or sweetened for extra indulgence.

Pro Baking Tips

• Always stir the praline mixture constantly to prevent burning.
• Press cookies lightly for uniform thickness and even setting.
• Use parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking.
• For extra flavor, lightly toast the oats along with nuts and coconut before mixing.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Refrigeration: Keep in airtight containers at room temperature for 3–5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cookies in a single layer, then stack with parchment paper between layers for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: No reheating necessary; serve at room temperature.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Cookie)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	165 kcal
Protein	2 g
Carbohydrates	21 g
Fat	8 g
Fiber	2 g
Sodium	70 mg

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian-friendly, can be made gluten-free and vegan with simple substitutions.

Expanded Conclusion

These No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies are proof that delicious desserts don’t need an oven. They’re sweet, nutty, and wonderfully chewy with minimal effort. Perfect for a quick treat, holiday gift, or party dessert, these cookies are sure to become a family favorite.

Make a batch today, enjoy them with a cup of coffee or tea, and watch how quickly they disappear! Share with friends and family, and bookmark this recipe it’s one you’ll return to again and again for effortless, indulgent sweetness.

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