Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe

These No-Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies are a delightful taste of the South. They’re sweet, nutty, and incredibly easy to make, with just a few simple ingredients and no baking required. I love how the crunchy pecans and chewy coconut complement the smooth, buttery praline filling. They’re the perfect treat for a warm afternoon or a cozy evening.

I first discovered these cookies at a church potluck years ago, and I’ve been hooked ever since. They’re a classic Southern recipe that’s been passed down through generations, and they always bring back fond memories of my childhood. I love making them for my own family and friends now, and they’re always a hit.

Why You’ll Love These No-Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies

• Simple and Delicious: This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, with just a few simple ingredients. But don’t let the simplicity fool you, the flavors are amazing!
• No Baking Required: These cookies are perfect for those hot summer days when you don’t want to turn on the oven.
• Perfect for Sharing: These cookies are great for potlucks, picnics, or just a casual get-together with friends and family.
• Versatile: You can easily customize these cookies with different types of nuts or dried fruits.

this Recipe

Ingredients for No-Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies

Here’s what I use to make these delightful cookies:

• Pecans: I love the nutty flavor and crunchy texture of pecans, but you can use other types of nuts if you prefer.
• Sweetened Shredded Coconut: Adds a chewy texture and a touch of sweetness.
• Granulated Sugar and Brown Sugar: These sugars add sweetness and help create the praline filling.
• Evaporated Milk: Adds richness and creaminess to the filling.
• Light Corn Syrup: Helps prevent the sugar from crystallizing and creates a smooth texture.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and flavor.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor of the praline filling.
• Salt: Just a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Variations

Want to try something different? Here are a few ideas:

• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle some melted chocolate over the cookies for an extra decadent treat.
• Different Nuts: Use walnuts, almonds, or even peanuts instead of pecans.
• Dried Fruit: Add some chopped dried fruit, like cranberries or apricots, to the mixture.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the praline filling for a warm, cozy flavor.

How to Make No-Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies

Step 1: Make the Praline Filling

In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, I stir together the sugars, evaporated milk, corn syrup, and butter until melted and smooth. I bring the mixture to a boil and cook for 3 minutes, then remove it from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.

Step 2: Add the Coconut and Pecans

I fold the shredded coconut and pecans into the praline filling until they’re well combined. Then, I continue stirring for a few minutes, or until the mixture begins to cool and thicken.

Step 3: Shape the Cookies

Once the mixture is thick enough to hold its shape, I use a tablespoon or a small ice cream scoop to drop spoonfuls of the cookie “dough” onto wax paper-lined baking sheets.

Step 4: Let Them Set

I let the cookies set completely at room temperature. If I’m in a hurry, I sometimes pop them in the freezer for a few minutes to speed up the process.

Tips and Tricks

• Boiling Point: Make sure the praline mixture comes to a full rolling boil before cooking it for 3 minutes. This helps to ensure that the cookies set properly.
• Cooling Time: The cookies will need some time to cool and set completely. If you’re short on time, you can place them in the freezer for a few minutes.
• Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

How to Serve

These No-Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies are delicious on their own, but here are a few ideas for serving them:

• Afternoon Tea: These cookies are perfect for an afternoon tea party or a coffee break.
• Dessert: Serve them as a simple and satisfying dessert after dinner.
• Gifting: Package them up in cute bags or tins and give them as gifts to friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: You can make these cookies a few days ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature.
• Freezing: You can freeze these cookies for up to 2 months. Just thaw them at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of nut?
Yes, you can use walnuts, almonds, or even peanuts instead of pecans.

2. Can I use a different type of milk?
Yes, you can use whole milk or even a non-dairy milk like almond milk or soy milk.

3. Can I make these cookies without corn syrup?
Yes, you can, but the cookies may have a slightly grainier texture.

4. How can I reheat the cookies?
If you need to reheat the cookies, you can do so in the microwave for a few seconds.

There you have it! A simple, delicious, and easy-to-make recipe for No-Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies. Enjoy!

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