Name: No-Bake Coconut Praline Cookies: Sweet, Easy, and Heavenly Treats
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 can evaporated milk; 1 cup brown sugar (can replace with light brown sugar); ½ cup granulated sugar (can be omitted for lower sugar); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (can substitute with almond extract); ½ cup corn syrup (can substitute with agave syrup for vegan option); ½ cup unsalted butter (or use coconut oil for dairy-free); 1 cup chopped pecans (can substitute with walnuts or almonds); 2 cups shredded coconut (can use unsweetened for less sugar); 1 teaspoon flaked sea salt (or regular salt)

The air is thick with the sweet scent of coconut and warmth—just a hint of nostalgia mixed with the thrill of creating something scrumptious. When I stumbled upon the idea for No-Bake Coconut Praline Cookies, I knew I had found my new go-to treat for any occasion. These little delights come together in a mere 20 minutes, making them perfect for those busy weeknights or surprise gatherings with friends. Not only do they satisfy your sweet cravings without the need for an oven, but they’re also fully customizable, allowing you to toss in your favorite nuts or a handful of chocolate chips. What could be better than indulging in a quick and easy dessert that everyone will adore? Are you ready to whip up your new favorite cookie?

Why Choose No-Bake Coconut Praline Cookies?

Quick and Easy: These delightful cookies come together in just 20 minutes, perfect for those who crave something sweet without the hassle of baking.

Customize to Your Liking: Feel free to substitute pecans with your favorite nuts, or add mini chocolate chips for an extra twist, just like the options in our Pumpkin Sugar Cookies and Apple Fritter Cookies.

No Oven Needed: Enjoy the convenience of a no-bake treat that’s just as satisfying as traditional cookies—ideal for hot summer days or busy weeknights.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: With a blend of chewy coconut and rich caramel, these cookies are sure to impress family and friends at any gathering.

Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual get-together or a festive celebration, these cookies are versatile enough to fit every occasion.

Dive into your new favorite cookie recipe and savor the sweetness today!

No-Bake Coconut Praline Cookie Ingredients

For the Cookie Mixture

Pecans – Add crunch and richness; substitute walnuts or almonds for different flavors.
Evaporated Milk – Provides creaminess and moisture; can replace with coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
Brown Sugar – Offers sweetness with a hint of molasses flavor; light brown sugar can be used in place of dark.
Granulated Sugar – Enhances sweetness; can be omitted for a lower sugar version.
Vanilla Extract – Adds aromatic flavor; use almond extract as a flavorful alternative.

For the Chewy Texture

Shredded Coconut – Brings chewy texture and coconut flavor; opt for unsweetened coconut for a less sugary profile.
Flaked Sea Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors; regular salt can be used, but the texture will differ.
Corn Syrup – Acts as a binder; agave syrup can be a substitute for a vegan option.
Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and helps with texture; use coconut oil for a dairy-free version.

With these No-Bake Coconut Praline Cookies ingredients on hand, you’ll be just moments away from creating a treat that’s not only delicious but also quick and easy!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for No-Bake Coconut Praline Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Mixture
In a medium saucepan, combine 1 can of evaporated milk, 1 cup of brown sugar, ½ cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, ½ cup of corn syrup, and ½ cup of unsalted butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture reaches the soft ball stage, about 235°F. It should bubble gently, becoming thick and caramel-colored.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Once the mixture reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the heat. Carefully stir in 1 cup of chopped pecans and 2 cups of shredded coconut until they are fully incorporated and evenly coated. This step is crucial as it helps distribute the contrasting textures, making your No-Bake Coconut Praline Cookies delightful.

Step 3: Cool and Shape
Allow the mixture to cool for about 5-10 minutes, just until it’s manageable to handle. Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Leave some space between each cookie to allow for easy cooling and shaping.

Step 4: Let Set
Let the cookies sit at room temperature for approximately 30 minutes to firm up. If you’re in a hurry, you can refrigerate them for quicker setting. This step ensures your No-Bake Coconut Praline Cookies become solid and hold their shape.

Step 5: Enjoy or Store
Once firm, the No-Bake Coconut Praline Cookies are ready to enjoy! If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. They can stay fresh at room temperature for up to 7 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Expert Tips for No-Bake Coconut Praline Cookies

Perfect Temperature: Use a candy thermometer to ensure the mixture reaches the soft ball stage (235°F) for the best chewy texture.
Avoid Hard Cookies: Stir constantly to prevent overcooking. If it bubbles too aggressively, lower the heat, or your cookies may turn hard.
Flavor Variations: Get creative! Add mini chocolate chips, dried fruits, or switch up the nuts to customize your No-Bake Coconut Praline Cookies to your taste.
Cooling Technique: For quicker setting, pop them in the refrigerator instead of waiting at room temperature. Just don’t forget to space them out!
Storage Secrets: To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container. They stay delicious for up to 7 days, or freeze for longer enjoyment!

Make Ahead Options

These No-Bake Coconut Praline Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the base mixture up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to save precious time on busy days. Simply cook the mixture according to the instructions, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps to maintain the integrity and freshness of the ingredients. When you’re ready to enjoy, stir in the chopped pecans and shredded coconut, scoop onto a baking sheet, and let them set as usual. This approach ensures you’ll have delicious, homemade cookies ready whenever the craving strikes!

No-Bake Coconut Praline Cookies Variations

Feel free to sprinkle your own twist on these delightful cookies and make them your own!

Nut-Free: Swap out pecans for sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free option that still offers crunch.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk instead of evaporated milk, and replace butter with coconut oil for a vegan-friendly treat.
Sugar-Free: Consider using a sugar substitute like erythritol in place of brown and granulated sugar to create a low-sugar version.
Extra Flavor: Try adding a teaspoon of espresso powder for a coffee kick, enhancing the rich caramel flavor that these cookies offer.
Check Out This Combo: Add mini chocolate chips for a touch of sweetness and indulgence. This new flavor pairing can very easily remind you of our scrumptiously decadent Chocolate Brownie Cookies.
Fruity Twist: Incorporate dried fruits like cranberries or cherries for a burst of tartness that complements the sweetness perfectly.
Coconut Lovers Unite: For a more intense coconut flavor, add a sprinkle of coconut extract to elevate this tropical treat as found in our popular Pumpkin Sugar Cookies.
Heat Things Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for those who love a spicy kick along with their sweet treats! This surprising twist can make each bite a delightful adventure.

With these variations, you’ll always find something new to savor in your No-Bake Coconut Praline Cookies!

What to Serve with No-Bake Coconut Praline Cookies

Delight your taste buds with a well-curated meal that beautifully complements these chewy, sweet treats.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of berries and citrus offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cookies, creating a light and healthy balance.
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: Pairing these cookies with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream elevates the experience, melting together sweet and nutty goodness.
Rich Coffee or Espresso: The robust flavors of coffee provide a perfect pairing for the cookies, as the bitterness beautifully offsets their sweetness, making it an indulgent treat.
Chocolate Milkshake: For a fun, nostalgic vibe, serve these cookies with a thick chocolate milkshake. The blended flavors of chocolate and coconut bring a delightful twist.
Coconut Chia Pudding: Embrace the coconut theme by serving them alongside light and airy coconut chia pudding, giving your guests layers of flavor and texture to enjoy.
Chai Tea: A warm cup of chai tea with its aromatic spices complements the cookies’ chewy texture, adding a dash of warmth and comfort to the tasting experience.

Indulge in a balanced culinary experience that takes your No-Bake Coconut Praline Cookies to new heights, enhancing the enjoyment of every bite!

Storage Tips for No-Bake Coconut Praline Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days to maintain their chewy texture and flavor.

Fridge: For extended freshness, you can refrigerate the No-Bake Coconut Praline Cookies. Just ensure they’re in an airtight container, and they’ll last up to 10 days.

Freezer: Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a sealed bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying!

Reheating: If desired, enjoy cookies warmed slightly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, bringing back their luscious texture.

No-Bake Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting pecans for my cookies?
When choosing pecans, look for nuts that are plump and free from dark spots or mold. Fresh pecans should feel slightly oily and have a pleasant nutty aroma. I always recommend buying them in bulk for the best freshness, and you can also toast them lightly to enhance their flavor before adding them to your cookies.

How do I store leftover No-Bake Coconut Praline Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 10 days, but this may change the texture slightly. For even longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, transfer them to a sealed bag or container, and they can last up to 3 months!

Can I freeze No-Bake Coconut Praline Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze your cookies, start by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once they are frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

What if my cookie mixture is too runny?
If your mixture turns out runny, it might not have reached the soft ball stage, which is crucial for the right texture. Make sure to use a candy thermometer and simmer on medium heat while stirring constantly until it reads 235°F. If you’ve already let it cool and it’s still too soft, you can try cooking it a little longer over low heat until it thickens, but keep a close eye on it to avoid hardening.

Are these cookies safe for people with nut allergies?
Great question! If someone is allergic to nuts, you can absolutely make a nut-free version of these No-Bake Coconut Praline Cookies. Just replace the pecans with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds, which will still provide some crunch. Always read labels carefully for any ingredients you’re using, such as coconut, as some brands may process in facilities that handle nuts.

Can I substitute the evaporated milk with anything else?
Yes, you can substitute the evaporated milk with coconut milk for a dairy-free version. This adds a lovely coconut flavor that complements the other ingredients. If you’re looking for a lower calorie option, almond milk can work as well, but you may need to adjust the cooking time or add a bit more sugar to compensate for the thinner texture. Just be sure to keep stirring and starting from low heat!