Name: No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups Shredded Coconut; 1 cup Pecans, chopped; 0.5 cup Unsalted Butter; 1 cup Brown Sugar, packed; 0.5 cup Sweetened Condensed Milk; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 0.25 teaspoon Salt; 0.5 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (optional); 2 cups Quick Oats

Jump to Recipe

Looking for a quick, sweet treat that comes together in a snap and tastes downright dreamy? Welcome to the world of No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies! These cookies somehow manage to be rich, chewy, and delightfully nutty—all without ever turning on the oven. Inspired by classic Southern pralines but with a tropical coconut twist, this recipe brings together the creamy sweetness of condensed milk, warming brown sugar, and crunchy pecans for a crowd-pleasing bite-size dessert.

Did you know pralines were originally French confections brought to America by settlers in Louisiana? These easy no-bake cookies put a modern spin on the classic, combining convenience with full flavor. If you’ve tried my famous No-Bake Peanut Butter Oat Bars, you’ll love how this recipe adds a little southern flair and plenty of texture. Grab your mixing bowl and let’s make dessert magic—your family will beg for seconds!

What is No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies?

No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies—say that five times fast! Ever wondered why desserts get such long names? Maybe it’s because every yummy ingredient deserves its moment in the spotlight. These bite-sized no-bake cookies aren’t actually cookies in the traditional sense (no flour, no baking!). They’re a luscious blend of coconut, pecans, oats and sweet praline goodness, all clumped together and chilled to perfection. As my grandma used to say, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach—and these cookies are a straight shot! So what are you waiting for? Whip up a batch and taste the legend yourself.

Why You’ll Love This

If you’re on the hunt for a sweet treat that doesn’t break the bank or require a culinary degree, this is it! The real highlight here? Each cookie bursts with classic praline flavor—thanks to butter, brown sugar, and vanilla—while toasted coconut and crunchy pecans steal the show. Making these at home not only slashes dessert costs, but also gives you control over the ingredients (perfect for satisfying that sweet tooth without the preservatives found in store-bought sweets).

Swapping the classic praline’s stovetop caramel for an easy no-bake method makes these cookies stress-free and absolutely foolproof. Compared to traditional baked cookies or my no-bake chocolate oatmeal cookies, these praline bites offer unique nutty, coconutty notes in every chewy mouthful. Ready to try it for yourself? Gather those pantry staples—you’ll be amazed at how quickly deliciousness happens!

How to Make No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies

Quick Overview

This recipe is a dream for busy bakers, sweet lovers, and anyone with a hankering for pralines. The prep is a breeze—no oven required! Just mix, cook briefly on the stove, and scoop your cookies onto a tray to cool. Each bite is packed with creamy, caramel-like praline flavors, pops of coconut, and hearty oats. The best part? These cookies can be ready to eat in just 25 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute guests or afternoon cravings.

Stack of no-bake coconut pecan praline cookies on parchment paper

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups shredded coconut
1 cup pecans, chopped
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
2 cups quick oats

Step-by-Step

Prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the brown sugar and sweetened condensed milk. Stir continuously until the mixture begins to bubble—this should take about 3 minutes.
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract, salt, and ground cinnamon (if using), combining thoroughly.
Quickly fold in the shredded coconut and chopped pecans, mixing well until evenly distributed.
Add the quick oats and stir until the mixture is thick and everything is well coated.
Working quickly, drop heaping spoonfuls (about 2 tablespoons each) of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Flatten or shape them slightly with the back of your spoon.
Allow the cookies to cool at room temperature for at least 20 minutes, or place them in the refrigerator for faster setting.
Once firm, enjoy immediately or transfer to an airtight container for storage.

What to Serve No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies With

Pair these chewy cookies with a tall glass of milk, a hot cup of coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a simple yet elegant dessert. For a Southern-inspired treat, serve alongside iced tea and fresh summer fruit. They also make a perfect addition to dessert trays, holiday platters, or as a sweet snack at picnics and potlucks. Hosting a brunch? Try pairing them with fruit salad or my easy Savory Breakfast Egg Muffins for a delicious mix of sweet and hearty!

Top Tips for Perfecting No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies

Toast your pecans and coconut for extra depth of flavor—just a few minutes in a dry skillet will do.
For a richer taste, use dark brown sugar instead of light.
Want it extra gooey? Add an extra tablespoon of sweetened condensed milk.
Substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans if desired, or make it nut-free by swapping in sunflower seeds.
Work quickly as the mixture sets fast—have your ingredients prepped before you start.
If your cookies aren’t setting well, pop the tray in the fridge for 30 minutes to help them solidify.
Avoid overmixing once the oats are added; just stir until coated for the perfect texture.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or in the refrigerator for about a week. To keep them soft and chewy, line the container with parchment or wax paper, separating each layer. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet; once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving. No reheating is needed, but if you want an extra gooey treat, microwave a cookie for 10 seconds!

FAQs

How do I know when the sugar mixture is ready?
You’ll know it’s ready when it starts bubbling vigorously and the sugar is fully dissolved—this usually takes about 3 minutes on medium heat.

Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of quick oats?
Quick oats help the cookies bind better, but you can substitute old-fashioned oats for a chewier texture. Pulse them a couple of times in a food processor for best results.

Are these cookies gluten-free?
As long as you use certified gluten-free oats, yes! All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! They’re perfect for meal prepping and stay fresh for up to a week in the fridge or for months in the freezer.

Can I use sweetened shredded coconut?
Definitely, but your cookies will be extra sweet. If you prefer a less sugary bite, opt for unsweetened coconut.

Conclusion

No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies are the ultimate no-fuss treat—chewy, nutty, and packed with praline flavor. Ready in less than half an hour, they’re creamy, satisfying, and require just a handful of pantry staples. Whether you’re making them for a party, snacking with the family, or simply craving something sweet, this easy recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Don’t forget to explore my other no-bake treats for even more irresistible ideas—because dessert should always be this simple and delicious. Happy no-baking!