If you’re searching for an irresistible treat that checks all the boxes for ease, flavor, and festivity, look no further than these No-Bake Cranberry Pecan Praline Cookies. This recipe delivers everything you could want in a cookie: a luscious caramel base, bright pops of tangy cranberry, the buttery crunch of toasted pecans, and a cozy hint of oats. They’re quick to make, absolutely stunning on a holiday platter, and you never even have to turn on your oven!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of these No-Bake Cranberry Pecan Praline Cookies comes from humble, straightforward ingredients that each bring something delightful to the table. The result is a chewy, rich, and flavor-packed cookie that looks as good as it tastes—let’s break down what you’ll need and why each item is so important.
- Unsalted Butter: Provides a rich base and helps create that signature praline flavor. Use unsalted to control the overall saltiness.
- Brown Sugar (packed): Adds deep caramel notes, giving the cookies their quintessential praline allure and chewiness.
- Heavy Cream: Creates a smooth, creamy texture for the praline mixture, ensuring every bite is perfectly luscious.
- Salt: Balances all the sweet elements and sharpens the flavor profile—don’t skip it!
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the warmth of the praline and ties together all the flavors seamlessly.
- Quick Oats: These bring heartiness and structure, holding together the praline for the perfect tender bite.
- Pecans (chopped, toasted if desired): Bring a rich nutty crunch; toasting deepens their flavor even more.
- Dried Cranberries: Offer a tangy-sweet pop of flavor and a jewel-like color that makes the cookies look festive.
How to Make No-Bake Cranberry Pecan Praline Cookies
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Begin by lining a baking sheet with parchment or wax paper. This simple step keeps your cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze! Set the tray aside—you’re about to whip up the quickest praline mixture ever.
Step 2: Create the Praline Base
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once it’s completely melted, stir in the packed brown sugar, heavy cream, and salt. Don’t walk away! You’ll want to stir constantly, bringing this mixture to a gentle boil. Let it bubble away for 2–3 minutes to thicken and meld the flavors—your kitchen will smell amazing.
Step 3: Add the Flavor Boosters
Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. This is where the real praline magic happens! Quickly add in the quick oats, chopped pecans, and dried cranberries. Mix vigorously until everything is evenly coated with the glossy praline sauce. It might seem sticky, but trust the process—the cookies will set up perfectly once cool.
Step 4: Shape and Set
Working quickly (since the mixture thickens as it cools), drop heaping tablespoons of the cookie mixture onto your prepped baking sheet. For a classic look, gently flatten each one with the back of your spoon. Now, patience: let your No-Bake Cranberry Pecan Praline Cookies cool at room temperature for 30–45 minutes, or pop them in the fridge for a speedier set.
Step 5: Store and Enjoy
Once the cookies are firm to the touch, transfer them to an airtight container. You can keep them at room temperature or in the fridge, depending on your texture preference (room temp for chewier, fridge for firmer). They’re ready to devour—no oven mitts required!
How to Serve No-Bake Cranberry Pecan Praline Cookies
Garnishes
For a festive finish, drizzle the cooled cookies with a bit of melted white chocolate or dust lightly with powdered sugar. You could even sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon on top for warming spice and a cozy holiday aroma.
Side Dishes
No-Bake Cranberry Pecan Praline Cookies are delicious alongside a mug of mulled cider, spiced tea, or even a creamy latte. They’re also a perfect partner for a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you want to turn snack time into an impromptu dessert party.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack them high on a rustic wooden platter for a holiday dessert table, nestle them in cupcake liners for a pretty gift box, or wrap a few in clear cellophane with ribbon for the sweetest homemade present.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your No-Bake Cranberry Pecan Praline Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you prefer a slightly firmer texture, the fridge will make them even chewier and will keep them fresh a little longer.
Freezing
These cookies freeze beautifully! Arrange them in a single layer (or with parchment between layers) in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Just let them thaw on the counter for 20–30 minutes before enjoying.
Reheating
While these cookies don’t require traditional reheating, if you like a slightly softer bite, let refrigerated or frozen cookies sit at room temperature until they relax, or warm a cookie in the microwave for 5–10 seconds for a touch of gooeyness.
FAQs
Can I use regular rolled oats instead of quick oats?
Quick oats are best because they absorb the praline mixture evenly and create the ideal chewy texture, but if you only have rolled oats, you can pulse them a few times in the food processor to break them down before using.
Are there any nut-free alternatives for the pecans?
Absolutely! You can substitute sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free crunch, or simply leave out the nuts altogether for an oat- and cranberry-focused cookie.
What other dried fruit could I use?
Dried cherries, golden raisins, or chopped dried apricots all add a delicious twist to your No-Bake Cranberry Pecan Praline Cookies, offering new color and flavor profiles while keeping the festive vibe.
Do I have to toast the pecans?
Toasting intensifies the nutty flavor, but it’s totally optional. If you’re short on time, raw pecans work just fine—the praline mixture will still infuse them with plenty of rich taste.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
If you use certified gluten-free quick oats, these No-Bake Cranberry Pecan Praline Cookies are naturally gluten-free. Just check your oat and ingredient labels to be certain.
Final Thoughts
These No-Bake Cranberry Pecan Praline Cookies are the kind of treat you’ll want to make again and again—for holiday parties, easy gifts, or whenever a sweet craving strikes. Give them a try and you just might find yourself with a brand-new favorite, no oven required!
Print
No-Bake Cranberry Pecan Praline Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes (includes cooling)
- Yield: 18 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These No-Bake Cranberry Pecan Praline Cookies are a delightful holiday treat that requires minimal effort. With a perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors, these easy-to-make cookies are sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
Cookie Base:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups quick oats
Add-Ins:
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (toasted if desired)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: Line a baking sheet with parchment or wax paper. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in brown sugar, heavy cream, and salt. Bring to a gentle boil and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Mix in Flavors: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Quickly mix in the oats, pecans, and dried cranberries until fully coated.
- Shape the Cookies: Drop heaping tablespoons of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Flatten slightly with the back of a spoon if desired. Let cool at room temperature for 30–45 minutes, or refrigerate for faster setting.
- Store and Enjoy: Once firm, store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge.
Notes
- You can substitute walnuts for pecans and golden raisins for cranberries.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or a drizzle of white chocolate on top once set.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
