If you’re looking for a quick and easy dessert that’s full of rich, nutty flavor, these No-Bake Coconut Pecan Pralines are the perfect treat! These sweet, chewy, and buttery pralines combine the classic flavors of pecans and coconut with the delightful texture of a no-bake candy. Perfect for holidays, parties, or just a sweet craving, these pralines are incredibly easy to make and require no oven time at all.
Let’s dive into this simple recipe and make some delicious pralines that everyone will love!
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
- 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pecan and Coconut Mixture
- Mix Pecans and Coconut: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped pecans and shredded coconut. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Praline Base
- Combine the Sugars, Butter, and Milk: In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, unsalted butter, and evaporated milk.
- Heat the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly until the butter is melted, and the sugars are dissolved.
- Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Continue to stir constantly to prevent burning.
- Cook to Soft-Ball Stage: Let the mixture boil for 3-4 minutes, or until it reaches the soft-ball stage (235-240°F or 112-116°C) on a candy thermometer. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test by dropping a small amount of the mixture into a bowl of cold water—it should form a soft, pliable ball.
Step 3: Combine and Shape the Pralines
- Add the Pecans, Coconut, and Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the prepared pecan and coconut mixture, along with the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Mix well until everything is evenly coated and combined.
- Spoon onto Parchment: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, quickly drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Work quickly, as the mixture will begin to set as it cools.
- Shape the Pralines: Use the back of the spoon to shape the pralines into rounds or any desired shape.
Step 4: Cool and Set
- Let Cool: Allow the pralines to cool completely on the baking sheet at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or until they are firm and set.
Serving and Storage Tips:
- Serving: Serve these pralines as a delightful snack or dessert. They’re perfect for sharing at gatherings, parties, or as a holiday treat.
- Storage: Store pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezing: Freeze pralines in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Helpful Notes:
- Consistency is Key: Make sure to cook the sugar mixture to the soft-ball stage to ensure the pralines set correctly. If they’re too soft, cook a bit longer; if they’re too hard, they’ve been overcooked.
- Mix Quickly: Once you add the pecans and coconut, work quickly to spoon out the pralines, as they will begin to harden as they cool.
- Substitute Options: You can replace pecans with walnuts or almonds and use unsweetened coconut for a less sweet option.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs:
- Paula Deen: Suggests toasting the pecans and coconut before adding them to the mixture for extra flavor and a bit of crunch.
- Martha Stewart: Recommends adding a pinch of sea salt to the top of each praline for a sweet and salty twist.
- Ina Garten: Advises using high-quality vanilla extract for the best flavor in your pralines.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use sweetened condensed milk instead of evaporated milk?
No, sweetened condensed milk is much thicker and sweeter than evaporated milk and will alter the texture and taste. Use evaporated milk as specified for the best results. - What can I do if my pralines don’t set properly?
If your pralines don’t set, it’s likely because the mixture wasn’t cooked long enough or didn’t reach the proper temperature. You can try reheating the mixture gently and adding a little more evaporated milk, then recooking to the correct temperature. - Can I make these pralines dairy-free?
Yes, substitute unsalted butter with a dairy-free alternative and use coconut milk instead of evaporated milk. - How do I prevent the pralines from becoming grainy?
Stir the sugar mixture continuously and avoid scraping down the sides of the saucepan to prevent sugar crystals from forming. - Can I add chocolate to these pralines?
Yes, you can drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled pralines or mix in mini chocolate chips while the mixture is still warm. - Can I add other flavors to these pralines?
Absolutely! Try adding a splash of rum extract, almond extract, or even a bit of cinnamon for a unique flavor twist. - What should I do if the pralines are too sticky?
If your pralines are sticky, they may not have been cooked long enough. Ensure you reach the soft-ball stage next time or let them set longer. - How do I make them less sweet?
Use unsweetened coconut and reduce the amount of granulated sugar slightly, but remember that this may alter the texture slightly. - Can I make these in smaller portions?
Yes, use a smaller spoon or scoop to make bite-sized pralines. Adjust the cooling time as needed. - What can I serve with these pralines?
Serve them with coffee, tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert pairing.
Conclusion:
These No-Bake Coconut Pecan Pralines are a sweet, nutty, and chewy treat that’s easy to make and full of delicious flavor. Perfect for any occasion, these pralines require no baking and can be made in just a few simple steps. Enjoy this Southern-inspired delicacy with your family and friends, and watch them disappear in no time!
