Description
No-Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies
Ingredients:
2 ½ cups granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter
½ cup evaporated milk
1 cup toasted pecans
1 cup shredded coconut
Instructions:
In a pot, heat sugar, butter, and evaporated milk, stirring until the mixture boils.
Fold in toasted pecans and coconut.
Scoop onto parchment paper and cool until firm.
Description:
Buttery and sweet with a delightful crunch, these No-Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies are an instant favorite. What’s your favorite no-bake cookie combination?
#CookieCraze
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect praline cookies every time. First, gather all ingredients and equipment: a heavy-bottomed medium saucepan, a wooden spoon, parchment paper, and a cookie scoop or tablespoon. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Toast 1 cup of pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant. Set aside to cool slightly, then chop roughly.
In your saucepan, combine 2 ½ cups granulated sugar, ½ cup unsalted butter, and ½ cup evaporated milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly with the wooden spoon to dissolve the sugar and prevent scorching. Bring the mixture to a full, rolling boil. Once boiling, set a timer and continue to cook and stir for exactly 2 minutes. This precise timing is crucial for the right texture. Immediately remove the pot from the heat.
Quickly fold in the toasted pecans and 1 cup of shredded coconut until fully coated. Working swiftly before the mixture sets, drop by heaping tablespoonfuls onto the prepared parchment paper. Allow cookies to cool completely at room temperature for 1-2 hours until firm and crystallized.
Serving Suggestions
These rich cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of strong black coffee or a glass of cold milk to balance their sweetness. For a festive dessert platter, serve them alongside dark chocolate truffles and fresh fruit. They also make excellent edible gifts; package them in a decorative tin or cellophane bag tied with a ribbon.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Combine sugar, butter, and milk in a pot. Heat while stirring until a full boil is reached. Boil for 2 minutes exactly. Remove from heat and immediately stir in toasted pecans and coconut. Drop spoonfuls onto parchment and let cool completely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use sweetened condensed milk instead of evaporated milk? No, they are not interchangeable. Evaporated milk has a different consistency and sugar content, which is vital for the candy structure.
Why are my cookies too soft or sticky? This usually means the sugar mixture was not boiled for the full 2 minutes, preventing it from reaching the correct firm-ball candy stage.
Can I make these without nuts? Yes, you can omit the pecans and use a total of 2 cups of shredded coconut for a coconut praline cookie.
How should I store these cookies? Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Layer them between sheets of parchment to prevent sticking.
Can I double this recipe? It’s not recommended. Candy-making requires precise temperature control, and doubling the batch can lead to inconsistent cooking and texture issues.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not using a heavy-bottomed pot, which can cause the sugar to scorch easily.
- Walking away from the pot while the mixture is boiling, even for a moment.
- Boiling for longer than 2 minutes, which will make the cookies hard and brittle.
- Stirring the mixture after removing it from heat but before adding the pecans and coconut, which can cause graininess.
- Using stale or untoasted pecans, which results in a less robust, flavorful crunch.
Conclusion
These No-Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies are a testament to the magic of simple ingredients transformed through careful technique. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a batch of irresistibly buttery, crunchy, and sweet treats with no oven required. They are the perfect quick fix for a cookie craving or a charming homemade gift. Enjoy the delicious results of your easy kitchen effort!