No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies – A Southern Treat That Melts in Your Mouth!

Are you craving a sweet, nutty, chewy dessert that doesn’t require an oven? These No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies are the perfect blend of creamy and crunchy, inspired by Southern pralines and bursting with rich, buttery flavor.

This detailed recipe will walk you through the steps to create a batch of irresistible cookies in under 30 minutes – no baking needed! Whether you’re prepping for a party, looking for a quick holiday treat, or just want to satisfy your sweet tooth, this is a must-try.

What Are Praline Cookies?

Praline cookies are a sweet spin-off of traditional Southern pralines – a melt-in-your-mouth candy made from sugar, butter, and pecans. This version adds a tropical twist with shredded coconut, and the best part? No baking required.

The cookies set as they cool, giving you a soft, chewy texture with crunchy pecan bits and sweet coconut flakes in every bite. They’re perfect for gifting, storing, or devouring straight off the wax paper!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start, gather the following ingredients:

2½ cups granulated sugar – for sweetness and texture.
½ cup evaporated milk – adds creaminess and depth.
½ cup light corn syrup – helps prevent crystallization and keeps the mixture smooth.
½ cup unsalted butter – for that rich, buttery flavor.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – adds warmth and fragrance.
2 to 2½ cups chopped pecans – use fresh pecans for best results.
2½ cups shredded coconut – unsweetened is preferred to balance the sugar.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Workspace

Line a few baking sheets or your countertop with wax paper or parchment paper. Once the mixture is ready, you’ll need to act quickly to form the cookies.

Place the pecans, coconut, and vanilla extract in small bowls and set them aside – you’ll need them fast once the syrup is done.

2. Start the Syrup Base

In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine:

Sugar
Evaporated milk
Corn syrup
Butter

Stir the ingredients over medium heat until the butter melts and the mixture is smooth.

3. Boil to Perfection

Once everything is melted, bring the mixture to a rolling boil – this means the entire surface should be bubbling. Let it boil, without stirring, for exactly 3 minutes.

This step is crucial! Boiling it for the right amount of time ensures the cookies set properly – too short, and they’ll be too soft; too long, and they’ll be dry and crumbly.

4. Mix in the Magic

Remove the pan from the heat. Immediately stir in:

The vanilla extract
The chopped pecans
The shredded coconut

Stir vigorously for about 4 full minutes. You’ll notice the mixture start to thicken slightly – that’s your cue it’s ready.

5. Drop and Set

Using a spoon (or a small ice cream scoop), drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the wax paper. Leave space between each cookie, as they will spread slightly.

Now, just let them sit at room temperature. Within 15–30 minutes, they’ll firm up beautifully. Once set, you can lift them off the paper and enjoy.

Storage Tips

Store your praline cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
For longer storage, you can refrigerate them – just bring them to room temp before serving for best flavor.
Want to make them ahead? These freeze well for up to a month!

Flavor Variations

Want to experiment? Try these ideas:

Add a pinch of sea salt on top for a sweet-salty twist.
Mix in mini chocolate chips just before dropping them for a choco-praline version.
Use toasted coconut for an extra nutty aroma.
Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.

Why You’ll Love These No Bake Cookies

No oven required
Quick and easy – ready in under 30 minutes
Great texture – chewy, nutty, and slightly crunchy
Crowd-pleasing – perfect for holidays, potlucks, or everyday treats
Naturally gluten-free Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie

Fun Fact: The Power of Pecans

Did you know that pecans are rich in healthy fats, antioxidants, and fiber? They’re heart-healthy and add a natural crunch and depth of flavor to desserts like this. Combined with coconut – which is high in fiber and provides healthy MCT oils – this treat is not just tasty, but packs a surprising nutritional punch.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, these No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies are guaranteed to impress. They’re rich, satisfying, and dangerously addictive – in the best way possible.