Looking for a quick, no-fuss dessert that’s bursting with flavor and texture? These No-Bake Cranberry Pecan Praline Cookies are the perfect treat. Tart cranberries, crunchy pecans, and sweet praline combine into a delightful cookie you can make in just 20 minutes—no oven required! Ideal for busy afternoons, holiday treats, or when you simply want a sweet snack without the hassle, these cookies are a crowd-pleaser every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just an hour, including setting time.
- No-Bake: Perfect for those who prefer no-oven recipes or warm-weather baking.
- Flavorful & Nutty: Sweet praline, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans create a balanced bite.
- Kid-Friendly: Fun to make and enjoy, perfect for family baking sessions.
- Customizable: Easy to swap nuts, dried fruits, or add chocolate drizzle.
Ingredients
For the Praline Base
- 1 cup Sugar – Provides the sweet, caramelized flavor; can use brown sugar for a deeper taste.
- ½ cup Unsalted Butter – Adds richness; margarine works as a substitute.
- ¼ cup Heavy Cream – Gives a creamy, luscious texture; whole milk or coconut milk can be used for a lighter option.
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; almond extract is a tasty alternative.
- 1 pinch Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor; sea salt adds texture.
For the Mix-ins
- 1 cup Pecans, chopped – Adds crunch and nuttiness; can substitute walnuts, almonds, or peanuts.
- 1 cup Dried Cranberries – Provides tartness and chewy texture; avoid fresh cranberries due to moisture.
- 1 cup Rolled Oats – Gives structure and chew; gluten-free oats make these cookies gluten-free.
Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make No-Bake Cranberry Pecan Praline Cookies
Prep Ingredients
Start by chopping the pecans and measuring out the oats and cranberries. This keeps your cooking process smooth and stress-free.
Make the Praline Base
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, unsalted butter, and heavy cream.
- Allow the mixture to bubble for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and turns a light caramel color.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt for balanced flavor.
Combine Mix-ins
- Fold in the chopped pecans and dried cranberries until evenly distributed.
- Add the rolled oats, stirring until fully coated with the praline mixture.
Shape and Set
- Drop tablespoons of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Let the cookies set at room temperature for 30–40 minutes until firm.
Store
Keep any leftover cookies in an airtight container. They stay fresh for several days and make a great grab-and-go snack.
Tips for Success
- Use even-sized tablespoons for consistent cookie shapes.
- Stir constantly while cooking the praline base to prevent burning.
- For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle with melted chocolate once the cookies have set.
- Make these cookies ahead of time—they’re perfect for gifting or holiday trays.
Recipe Variations
- Nut-Free: Replace pecans with extra oats or seeds for a crunchy texture.
- Chocolate Lovers: Fold in mini chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate.
- Tropical Twist: Substitute dried cranberries with chopped dried apricots or pineapple.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
- Arrange on a festive platter for holiday parties or gatherings.
- Pair with vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert twist.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
A: Yes! Walnuts, almonds, or peanuts all work beautifully.
Q: Can these cookies be made gluten-free?
A: Absolutely. Use certified gluten-free rolled oats to keep them gluten-free.
Q: How long do these cookies last?
A: Stored in an airtight container, they remain fresh for up to 5 days at room temperature.
Q: Can I make them ahead of time?
A: Yes! They can be prepared a day in advance and stored until ready to serve.
Q: Can I add chocolate?
A: Definitely! Drizzle melted chocolate over the set cookies or mix in chocolate chips during preparation.
Irresistibly Easy No-Bake Cranberry Pecan Praline Cookies
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Make delightful No-Bake Cranberry Pecan Praline Cookies in just 20 minutes, featuring tart cranberries and crunchy pecans.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Sugar (can substitute with brown sugar)
- ½ cup Unsalted Butter (margarine can be used)
- ¼ cup Heavy Cream (or milk/coconut milk)
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (or almond extract)
- 1 pinch Salt (sea salt recommended)
- 1 cup Pecans, chopped (or walnuts/almonds/peanuts)
- 1 cup Dried Cranberries
- 1 cup Rolled Oats (gluten-free if needed)
Instructions
- Prep Ingredients: Chop pecans and measure oats and cranberries.
- Combine Base Ingredients: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, mix sugar, butter, and cream.
- Cook: Allow mixture to bubble 2-3 minutes until it thickens and turns light caramel color.
- Add Flavor: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and pinch of salt.
- Mix in Nuts and Berries: Fold in pecans and dried cranberries.
- Incorporate Oats: Mix in rolled oats until fully coated.
- Shape Cookies: Drop tablespoons of mixture onto a lined baking sheet.
- Let Set: Allow cookies to set at room temperature for 30-40 minutes.
- Store Leftovers: Keep in an airtight container.
Notes
- For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle with melted chocolate if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Desserts & Sweets
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
These No-Bake Cranberry Pecan Praline Cookies are proof that indulgent desserts don’t have to be complicated. Sweet, nutty, and bursting with flavor, they’re perfect for holidays, snacks, or anytime you crave a treat. Quick to make, no oven required, and endlessly customizable, they’re destined to become a favorite in your cookie rotation. Give them a try and enjoy the crunchy, chewy, and utterly delicious results!