No-Bake Coconut Praline Cookies are a delicious combination of sweet and salty flavors with a chewy, nutty texture. Made with rich brown sugar, crunchy pecans, and shredded coconut, these cookies require no oven time, making them a quick and convenient treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Requires no baking, making it a hassle-free dessert
- A perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors
- Made with simple pantry ingredients
- Gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly
- Great for holiday gifts or quick snacks
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- ½ cup evaporated milk
- ½ cup corn syrup
- 2 cups brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp sea salt, flaked
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups shredded coconut
- 2 cups pecans, chopped
- ½ cup unsalted butter
Directions
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add evaporated milk, corn syrup, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Stir continuously until the mixture reaches a soft boil.
- Let the mixture cook for about 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a thick consistency.
- Remove from heat and immediately stir in the vanilla extract and sea salt.
- Fold in the shredded coconut and chopped pecans, ensuring they are fully coated with the caramelized mixture.
- Using a spoon, drop small portions of the mixture onto parchment paper.
- Allow the cookies to cool and set for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 25 cookies
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Cooling Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the cookies for added richness.
- Nut-Free Option: Replace pecans with sunflower or pumpkin seeds for an allergy-friendly version.
- Extra Crunch: Add ½ cup of crushed pretzels for an extra crunchy texture.
- Spiced Version: Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the mixture for a warm, spiced flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks for a firmer texture.
- Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: If the cookies harden too much, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften.
FAQs
How long do these cookies take to set?
They typically take about 30 minutes at room temperature, but you can refrigerate them to speed up the process.
Can I use sweetened coconut instead of unsweetened?
Yes, but it will make the cookies much sweeter. You may want to reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe.
What can I use instead of corn syrup?
You can substitute honey, maple syrup, or golden syrup, though it may slightly alter the texture and flavor.
Are these cookies crunchy or chewy?
They have a chewy texture with a slight crunch from the pecans and coconut.
Can I make these cookies dairy-free?
Yes, use a dairy-free butter alternative and substitute evaporated milk with coconut milk.
Can I use a sugar substitute?
Yes, but the texture may be affected. Use a sugar substitute that can caramelize, like monk fruit sweetener or coconut sugar.
Do these cookies hold their shape well?
Yes, once fully set, they hold their shape but remain soft and chewy.
Can I add other nuts to this recipe?
Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or macadamia nuts can be great alternatives.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, they store well and can be made days in advance for gatherings or gifts.
Why are my cookies too soft?
If they are too soft, the mixture might not have been cooked long enough. Try boiling it for a few extra minutes next time.
Conclusion
No-Bake Coconut Praline Cookies are a quick and easy treat packed with sweet caramel flavors, crunchy pecans, and chewy coconut. Whether you are looking for a no-fuss dessert or a gluten-free snack, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings. Try them for your next gathering, and they will quickly become a favorite!
Print
5-Minute No-Bake Praline Coconut Cookies
- Total Time: 55 minutes (including cooling)
- Yield: 25 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the perfect blend of sweet and salty with these No-Bake Coconut Praline Cookies! Made with buttery pecans, shredded coconut, and a rich caramel base, these gluten-free treats are an easy and delicious way to satisfy your dessert cravings—no oven required!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup corn syrup
- 2 cups brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp sea salt (flaked)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups shredded coconut
- 2 cups pecans (chopped)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
Instructions
- Prepare a baking sheet – Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup.
- Cook the caramel base – In a saucepan over medium heat, combine evaporated milk, corn syrup, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and butter. Stir continuously.
- Boil the mixture – Let the mixture come to a soft ball stage (about 235°F on a candy thermometer). This usually takes 3–5 minutes.
- Add flavor & texture – Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, salt, shredded coconut, and pecans. Mix well.
- Scoop & set – Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop portions of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Let them cool – Allow cookies to set for at least 30 minutes at room temperature before serving.
Notes
- Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week at room temperature or 2 weeks in the fridge.
- Customization: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate or a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor.
- Soft ball stage: If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small amount of the mixture into cold water—if it forms a soft ball, it’s ready!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
