Irresistible Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe

Sweet Symphony: Irresistible Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe

Sweet aromas waft through kitchens when pecan coconut praline cookies emerge from the oven.

These decadent treats blend rich praline flavors with nutty coconut in a mouthwatering dance of textures.

Crisp edges give way to chewy centers that melt softly on your tongue.

Pecans scattered throughout add a delightful crunch and depth to each perfectly baked cookie.

Southern baking traditions shine through in this classic recipe that transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

Every bite promises a symphony of caramelized sweetness and toasted nuttiness.

Prepare to fall in love with a cookie that elevates dessert from ordinary to unforgettable.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Calories: 195 kcal

Servings: 12

No-Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Ingredient Rundown

For Base and Binding:
  • Graham Crackers: Provides a sturdy, crunchy foundation with a subtle sweetness that complements the praline flavor.
  • Unsalted Butter: Melts and binds the graham cracker crumbs, creating a solid, cohesive base for the cookies.
For Creamy Praline Layer:
  • Brown Sugar: Delivers rich, caramel-like depth and helps create the signature praline texture.
  • Heavy Cream: Ensures a smooth, luxurious consistency while blending the sugar and butter seamlessly.
  • Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and helps achieve the classic praline glossy sheen.
For Topping and Crunch:
  • Toasted Pecans: Introduces a deep, nutty flavor and delightful crunch that elevates the entire cookie.
  • Shredded Coconut: Brings a tropical, textural contrast and subtle sweetness to the praline layer.
  • Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the flavors with its warm, comforting essence and enhances the overall taste profile.

Tools That Keep These No-Bake Cookies Fun and Fast

  • Large mixing bowl: Spacious container for combining ingredients smoothly.
  • Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring and mixing cookie mixture.
  • Saucepan: Essential for melting butter and creating praline base.
  • Measuring cups and spoons: Precise tools for accurate ingredient quantities.
  • Parchment paper or silicone baking mat: Prevents cookies from sticking and ensures easy removal.
  • Whisk: Helps blend ingredients evenly and break up any lumps.
  • Cooling rack: Allows cookies to set and cool completely without getting soggy.

Stir, Drop, and Cool Your Pecan Coconut Pralines

  • Prepare Baking Surface

Cover a flat baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone mat to create a smooth landing spot for your delicious treats.

  • Cook Caramel Base

In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat until it starts to bubble and turn golden. Stir in brown sugar and let the mixture simmer until it transforms into a rich, glossy caramel.

  • Blend Praline Mixture

Remove the caramel from heat and quickly mix in pecans, coconut, and vanilla. Stir rapidly to ensure every morsel gets coated in the sweet, buttery goodness.

  • Form Cookie Clusters

Using a spoon, drop small dollops of the warm praline mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Work quickly before the mixture starts to cool and harden.

  • Cool and Set

Allow the cookie clusters to rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes. The pralines will naturally firm up, creating a wonderfully crunchy exterior with a soft, chewy center.

  • Store and Enjoy

Once completely cooled, gently lift the praline cookies from the baking sheet. Store in an airtight container at room temperature and savor these decadent treats within a week.

Add Flavors Like Maple, Espresso, or Chocolate Chips

  • Refrigerate the cookies for at least 30 minutes to help them set firmly and develop a rich, smooth texture that melts in your mouth.
  • Prepare the cookies up to 5 days in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, making party prep and snack planning a breeze.
  • Swap regular oats for certified gluten-free oats to make these delightful treats suitable for those with gluten sensitivities without compromising on taste.
  • Replace pecans with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a delicious version that's safe for those with nut allergies, maintaining the cookie's delightful crunch.
  • Use a sugar-free maple syrup alternative and dark chocolate with minimal sugar to create a lower-sugar version that's still packed with incredible flavor.

Serve These No-Bake Cookies With Coffee or Cocoa

  • Tropical Island Plating: Arrange cookies on a wooden board with fresh banana leaves for an exotic, beach-inspired presentation that highlights their tropical coconut flavors.
  • Dessert Pairing Paradise: Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a small glass of dark rum for an indulgent complementary experience that enhances the rich pecan and coconut notes.
  • Coffee Companion Moment: Pair these cookies with a steaming cup of Brazilian roast coffee or a creamy cappuccino to create a delightful afternoon treat that balances the sweet praline richness.
  • Gifting Gourmet Style: Package cookies in clear cellophane bags tied with rustic twine and a small kraft paper tag, perfect for homemade edible gifts that showcase your culinary creativity.

Keep No-Bake Praline Cookies Chilled for Sweet Snacking

  • Place cookies on the prepared sheet and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to help them set faster and develop a delightful firm texture.
  • Keep cookies in an airtight container between layers of wax paper, lasting up to 5 days when refrigerated at 40°F or below for maximum freshness.
  • Wrap individual cookies tightly in plastic wrap, then store in a sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months, perfect for make-ahead dessert options.
  • If serving within 24 hours, store cookies in a sealed container at room temperature, keeping them away from direct sunlight or heat sources to maintain their crisp texture.

FAQs

  • What are the key ingredients for No-Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies?

The main ingredients include pecans, shredded coconut, brown sugar, butter, milk, and vanilla extract.

  • Do I need any special cooking equipment for this recipe?

You’ll need a saucepan, wooden spoon, baking sheet, parchment paper or silicone mat, and a measuring cup.

  • How difficult is this recipe for beginners?

This is an extremely easy recipe perfect for novice bakers. The no-bake method means you don’t need advanced cooking skills or specialized techniques.

  • Can I substitute ingredients if I don't have exactly what the recipe calls for?

You can replace pecans with other nuts like walnuts or almonds. For coconut, use toasted or unsweetened varieties based on your preference. Brown sugar can be substituted with white sugar if needed.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Irresistible Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe

Irresistible Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 33 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 13 1x

Description

Rich, creamy no-bake pecan coconut praline cookies offer a Southern delicacy packed with nutty sweetness. Simple ingredients and quick preparation make these treats perfect for casual gatherings and dessert lovers seeking quick indulgence.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups (360 ml) pecans, roughly chopped
  • 1 cup (240 ml) sweetened shredded coconut
  • ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
  • ½ cup (100 g) brown sugar, packed
  • ½ cup (1 stick or 113 g) unsalted butter
  • ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preparation: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone mat to create a non-stick surface for praline cookies.
  2. Caramel Creation: Combine sugar, cream, butter, and corn syrup in a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Heat over medium temperature, stirring until the mixture transforms into a smooth, glossy liquid with an amber-like complexion.
  3. Flavor Infusion: Remove from heat and swiftly incorporate toasted pecans, shredded coconut, and vanilla extract. Ensure thorough coating of nuts within the caramel mixture, creating a rich and aromatic blend.
  4. Shaping Process: Rapidly spoon the warm praline mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, forming individual cookie shapes. Use a second spoon to help manipulate and separate each confection, preventing potential sticking.
  5. Cooling and Setting: Allow praline cookies to rest at room temperature, enabling them to solidify into crisp, golden-brown delicacies with a lustrous, caramelized exterior.
  6. Storage and Serving: Once completely cooled and hardened, carefully detach cookies from the parchment paper. Transfer to an airtight container, separating layers with parchment to maintain texture. Consume within seven days for optimal flavor and crunchiness.

Notes

Control Sugar Crystallization: Brush down sugar crystals from the pan’s sides with a wet pastry brush to prevent grainy texture and ensure smooth, glossy caramel.

Precise Temperature Monitoring: Use a candy thermometer to accurately track the soft-ball stage (235-240°F), which guarantees perfect praline consistency and prevents burning.

Quick Handling Technique: Work swiftly when dropping praline mixture onto the baking sheet to maintain optimal temperature and prevent hardening before shaping.

Altitude and Humidity Adjustment: Slightly reduce cooking time in high-altitude or humid environments, as these conditions can affect caramel’s setting and texture performance.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: None
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 13
  • Calories: 194
  • Sugar: 12 g
  • Sodium: 42 mg
  • Fat: 11 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg
Emily Lawson

Emily Lawson

Content Creator & Culinary Specialist

Expertise

  • Creative Content Writing and Blogging​
  • Plant-Based and Alternative Grilling Recipes​
  • Food Styling and Visual Storytelling​
  • Nutritional Analysis and Healthy Cooking

Education

Oregon Culinary Institute
Diploma in Culinary Arts
Focus: Emphasis on farm-to-table cooking, sustainable practices, and the fusion of global flavors with traditional grilling methods. ​


Emily Lawson is the content creator at Daves Grill, turning tasty ideas into clear, easy recipes. Based in Portland, she trained at the Oregon Culinary Institute and loves cooking with fresh, seasonal ingredients, especially grilled veggies and global flavors.

Emily mixes food writing with hands-on cooking to bring you recipes that feel fun, not stressful. Her goal is to make every dish simple, flavorful, and worth coming back to. Together, she and Dave serve up real food, one recipe at a time.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star