No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Dreams are the perfect treat for when you’re craving something sweet, chewy, and nutty but don’t want to turn on the oven.
These decadent bites combine the rich, caramel-like flavor of pralines with the tropical sweetness of coconut for an indulgent yet easy-to-make dessert. Whether for a holiday party, a summer gathering, or just a quick homemade treat, these no-bake goodies are sure to impress!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Baking sheet or tray
- Parchment paper or silicone mat
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 1/2 cups pecans, roughly chopped
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Directions
- Prepare the Baking Sheet
- Line a baking sheet or tray with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Set aside.
- Cook the Base
- In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, butter, evaporated milk, and salt.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches a gentle boil.
- Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, for 3–4 minutes or until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Add the Coconut and Pecans
- Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Form the Praline Dreams
- Using a spoon, drop small mounds of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Work quickly, as the mixture will begin to set as it cools.
- Cool and Set
- Allow the praline dreams to cool and set at room temperature for about 30 minutes. For faster setting, place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Once set, transfer the praline dreams to a serving platter and enjoy!
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Total Time
20 minutes
Nutrition (Per Serving – Makes About 24 Pieces)
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 30mg
Expert Tips
- Consistent Size: Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized praline dreams.
- Customize Nuts: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds if desired.
- Texture Adjustment: If you prefer a chewier texture, reduce the coconut slightly and add more pecans.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! These no-bake treats store well and can be made up to 3 days in advance.
Can I use unsweetened coconut?
You can, but the texture and sweetness will change slightly. If using unsweetened coconut, consider adding 1–2 extra tablespoons of sugar to the base mixture.
What if I don’t have evaporated milk?
You can substitute with half-and-half or heavy cream in a pinch.
Storing & Reheating
- Storing: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Freezing: Freeze in a single layer in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Substitutions & Variations
- Add Chocolate: Drizzle melted dark or milk chocolate over the praline dreams for extra indulgence.
- Dried Fruit Addition: Mix in finely chopped dried cherries or cranberries for a fruity twist.
- Cinnamon Kick: Add 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon for a warm spice flavor.
No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Dreams
Equipment
- - Medium saucepan
- - Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- - Baking sheet or tray
- - Parchment paper or silicone mat
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- - 2 cups granulated sugar
- - 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- - 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- - 1/4 tsp salt
- - 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- - 1 1/2 cups pecans roughly chopped
- - 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- **Prepare the Baking Sheet**
- - Line a baking sheet or tray with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Set aside.
- **Cook the Base**
- - In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, butter, evaporated milk, and salt.
- - Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches a gentle boil.
- - Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, for 3–4 minutes or until the mixture thickens slightly.
- **Add the Coconut and Pecans**
- - Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- **Form the Praline Dreams**
- - Using a spoon, drop small mounds of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Work quickly, as the mixture will begin to set as it cools.
- **Cool and Set**
- - Allow the praline dreams to cool and set at room temperature for about 30 minutes. For faster setting, place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.
- **Serve and Enjoy**
- - Once set, transfer the praline dreams to a serving platter and enjoy!
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