No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies – Easy & Delicious
Indulge in the delightful flavors of No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies, a quick and easy treat that combines rich pecan and coconut flavors with the simplicity of a no-bake recipe. Perfect for busy days or last-minute dessert needs, these cookies offer a sweet solution in just 10 minutes of prep time.
Recipe Overview
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
- Cost: $
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This no-bake cookie recipe is a lifesaver on those days when you crave something sweet but don’t want to spend too much time baking. The combination of pecans and coconut creates a toasty, nutty flavor that’s truly irresistible. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation, this recipe is perfect for creating desserts on-the-fly, making it a great option for family gatherings, potlucks, or simple after-dinner treats.
Context/Background
Originating from the traditional pralines of the American South, these No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies offer a modern twist by eliminating the need for an oven. The easy preparation pays homage to the rich praline candies commonly found in Southern kitchens, blending pecan and coconut for a sweet flavor profile.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Boiling the mixture for too long can lead to crystallization. Remove from heat as soon as everything is combined.
- Ensure all butter and sugar are fully melted to avoid grainy cookies.
- Do not substitute unsalted butter with salted butter without adjusting the recipe, as it can alter the final taste.
Tips for Perfect No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies
- Use good quality pecans for the best flavor.
- Be sure to keep stirring the mixture to prevent burning.
- Drop cookies onto wax paper immediately before they cool and harden in the saucepan.
- Coconut can be toasted for an extra depth of flavor.
Variations and Substitutions
- Swap pecans with walnuts for a different nutty twist.
- Try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before cooling for a sweet-salty combination.
- Substitute regular coconut with toasted coconut for an added flavor dimension.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these delightful cookies with a warm cup of coffee or tea to enhance their nutty, sweet flavors. Perfect as a dessert for picnics or as a quick snack for unexpected guests.
Storage and Leftovers
Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator.
Make Ahead Instructions
Prepare the cookie mixture a day in advance, and drop them onto wax paper as needed. Ensure they are sealed in an airtight container to prevent drying out.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 15g
Dietary Notes
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-Free (ensure all ingredients used are certified gluten-free)
The Recipe
Serves: 20
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 0 mins
Total Time: 10 mins
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups
- Wax paper
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Directions
- In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, milk, and butter over medium heat.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly, until all ingredients are melted and combined.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in vanilla extract, coconut, and pecans.
- Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto waxed paper and let them cool until set.
Recipe Notes
- If you prefer a crunchier texture, lightly toast pecans before combining them with the other ingredients.
- Use wax paper to ensure easy removal of cookies once set.
Community Tips and Photos
Share your experience with this recipe! Tag us using #PecanCoconutPralineCookies on social media.
Questions and Answers
- Can I use almond milk instead of regular milk? Yes, almond milk can be used as a substitute for a dairy-free version.
- How do I know when the cookies are set? They should be firm to the touch and easily peel off the wax paper.
- What can I do if the cookies are too soft? Allow them extra time to cool and firm up, or refrigerate for a few minutes.