No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies: A Sweet Southern Treat

Indulge in the delightful blend of pecans and coconut with our No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies. This irresistible recipe brings the sweet, nutty charm of pralines into a simple no-bake cookie format. Perfect for those who crave a quick dessert fix without the hassle of baking, these cookies are sure to become a favorite at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies capture the essence of Southern praline flavor while being incredibly easy to prepare. The combination of crunchy pecans and chewy coconut provides a texture contrast that makes each bite a delight. Best of all, the no-bake method preserves the flavors of the ingredients, making them even more pronounced.

Ideal for a quick dessert fix, these cookies require no oven time and can be prepared in under 30 minutes. They’re perfect for parties, family gatherings, or any time you need a sweet treat in a hurry. Whether you’re a praline lover or trying the flavors for the first time, you’ll appreciate the simplicity and taste of this recipe.

Context/Background

The tradition of pralines dates back to the 17th century in France, where they were originally created as almond sugar-coated candies. The recipe evolved as it moved to the Southern United States, where pecans became the nut of choice, and the praline was born. This no-bake variation pays homage to the classic Southern confection by incorporating coconut, adding a new dimension to its already rich texture.

This modern twist on the praline merges historical flavors with contemporary convenience, making it a suitable choice for today’s busy kitchens.

Recipe Details

Serves: 24 cookies

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1 cup shredded coconut
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, butter, and milk. Stir continuously until butter melts and mixture comes to a boil.
2. Allow the mixture to boil for 3 minutes without stirring. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
3. Add pecans and coconut to the saucepan, stirring until fully coated with the sugar mixture.
4. Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto parchment paper. Shape them gently into cookies and allow to cool until set, approximately 30 minutes.

Tips for Perfect No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies

• Ensure the sugar mixture reaches a rolling boil before timing the 3 minutes.
• Use fresh, high-quality pecans for optimal flavor.
• Allow cookies to cool and set completely before serving.
• To add a chocolate twist, drizzle melted chocolate over the top before cooling.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are delightful on their own, but you can serve them with vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. Pair with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk to enhance their sweet, nutty flavors.

Storage and Leftovers

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator. If freezing, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking, and thaw at room temperature before serving.

Final Thoughts

Our No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies are a fantastic blend of tradition and convenience, offering a taste of the South with minimal effort. Their chewy texture and rich flavors are bound to win over any crowd, making them a wonderful choice for your next dessert endeavor.

Recipe Notes

• For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with coconut oil and choose a plant-based milk alternative.
• You can add a pinch of salt to the sugar mixture for a slightly salted praline version.
• Customize by adding chopped chocolate or dried fruit to the mix before forming cookies.