No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies
You can never go wrong with cookies. Seriously, there are so many amazing combinations and tweaks you can make that completely change a cookie, making it an exciting baking adventure and a great afternoon activity (with or without little helpers)! However, there are times when we really don’t feel like turning on the oven, or making, refrigerating, and rolling out a homemade dough…which is where these particular cookies come into play. They’re no-bake, easy as can be, and totally delicious to boot.
Perfect at any time of year, but especially during the holidays, these coconut pecan praline cookies are insanely delicious and addictive. All you have to do is combine your ingredients in a saucepan, then mix everything together. Let it cool a bit, since you don’t want your cookies to spread too much, then scoop them out and drop them onto a lined baking sheet. That’s it! The resulting cookie is perfectly sweet, crunchy, and yet still light-as-air, so get going and whip these bad boys up – trust us: everyone will love them!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies capture the essence of what a great treat should be: simple to make, delightful to taste, and sure to please a crowd. The combination of coconut and pecans provides a rich texture, while the praline base gives these cookies their irresistible sweetness and crunch. Plus, there’s no need to turn on the oven, making them perfect for hot days or when you need a quick dessert fix.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wax paper-lined baking sheets
- Tablespoon or small ice cream scoop
Ingredients
- 2 cups pecans
- 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, stir together the sugar, brown sugar, evaporated milk, corn syrup, and butter until melted and smooth.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for 3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
- Fold in the shredded coconut and pecans until well incorporated.
- Continue stirring for 3-4 minutes, or until the mixture begins to cool and thicken.
- Using a tablespoon or small ice cream scoop, drop spoonfuls of the cookie mixture onto wax paper-lined baking sheets.
- Let the cookies set completely. You can freeze them briefly if necessary to firm up.
- Enjoy your delicious no-bake cookies!
Tips for Success
- Make sure to stir constantly while boiling to prevent the mixture from sticking or burning.
- Let the mixture cool slightly before dropping onto the baking sheets to prevent excessive spreading.
- If your cookies are too sticky, try placing them in the refrigerator or freezer for a short time to help them set.
Additional Tips and Variations
- For a nut-free version, substitute the pecans with additional coconut or your favorite seeds.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a spiced twist.
- Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra layer of indulgence.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This recipe is a treat, so enjoy it in moderation. Each serving offers a delightful blend of carbohydrates, fats, and sugars that make for a satisfying dessert experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use unsweetened coconut? Yes, but keep in mind that the overall sweetness of the cookies will be reduced.
How should I store these cookies? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Can I use a different type of nut? Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds would also work well in this recipe.
Conclusion
These No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies are a perfect example of an easy yet impressive dessert that you can whip up in no time. Whether you’re making them for a holiday gathering or a simple family treat, they’re sure to be a hit. So go ahead, try them out, and let us know how they turned out for you! We’d love to hear your thoughts and any creative variations you come up with.