Why You’ll Love Easy No Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies Recipe

I appreciate how fast these cookies come together with just one saucepan and a few pantry staples. There’s no baking involved, which makes them perfect for warm days or when I don’t feel like preheating the oven. I enjoy how the combination of granulated sugar and brown sugar creates a deep, caramel-like flavor. The pecans add crunch, while the shredded coconut brings a soft, chewy texture. I also find this recipe very reliable when I carefully cook the sugar mixture to the proper stage.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

1½ cups granulated sugar
¾ cup brown sugar, packed
½ cup whole milk
½ cup unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups chopped pecans
2 cups sweetened shredded coconut

Directions

I begin by lining two large baking sheets with parchment paper or wax paper. I make sure my pecans and coconut are measured and ready because timing becomes important once the sugar mixture is cooked.

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, I combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, whole milk, and unsalted butter. I place the pan over medium heat and stir until the sugars dissolve and the mixture begins to boil.

Once boiling, I stop stirring and allow the mixture to cook for 2–3 minutes, until it reaches 235°F (soft ball stage) on a candy thermometer. If I don’t use a thermometer, I test a small drop in cold water and look for a soft ball that flattens when removed.

I immediately remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Then I quickly fold in the chopped pecans and sweetened shredded coconut, mixing until everything is evenly coated in the hot syrup.

Working quickly, I drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. I let the cookies cool at room temperature for 15–20 minutes, or until fully set and firm to the touch.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 24 cookies

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Setting Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

I sometimes lightly toast the pecans before adding them for a deeper, nuttier flavor. When I want extra richness, I add a small pinch of sea salt on top of each cookie before they set. For a chocolate twist, I drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled cookies. If I prefer a slightly softer texture, I reduce the cooking time by a few seconds, being careful not to undercook the mixture.

Storage/Reheating

I store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If my kitchen is particularly warm, I refrigerate them to help maintain their shape. I do not reheat them, as they are meant to be enjoyed at room temperature. If they firm up too much in the fridge, I let them sit out for a few minutes before serving.

FAQs

Why didn’t my cookies set properly?

If the mixture did not reach the soft ball stage (235°F), the cookies may remain sticky and soft.

Can I make these without a candy thermometer?

I use the cold water test to check for soft ball stage if I don’t have a thermometer.

Can I substitute the pecans?

I sometimes use walnuts, though pecans provide the most traditional praline flavor.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

Since there is no flour in the recipe, they are naturally gluten-free.

Can I use unsweetened coconut?

I can use unsweetened coconut, but the cookies will be less sweet and slightly drier.

How do I prevent the mixture from burning?

I use a heavy-bottomed saucepan and monitor the heat carefully to avoid hot spots.

Can I double the recipe?

I can double it, but I work quickly and make sure I have enough prepared baking sheets ready.

Why are my cookies too hard?

Overcooking the sugar mixture can lead to hard, brittle cookies.

Can I add chocolate chips?

I sometimes stir in mini chocolate chips after the mixture cools slightly so they don’t completely melt.

How long do they take to fully firm up?

They usually set within 15–20 minutes at room temperature.

Conclusion

I love how these easy no bake pecan coconut praline cookies deliver rich, buttery flavor with chewy coconut and crunchy pecans in every bite. They come together quickly and don’t require an oven, which makes them perfect for busy days or warm weather. Whenever I crave a sweet treat with classic praline flavor, this simple recipe never disappoints.