A Sweet and Simple Holiday Treat
These No Bake Cranberry Pecan Praline Cookies are the perfect combination of crunchy pecans, chewy cranberries, and a praline-style caramel base. With no oven required, they’re quick to whip up for the holidays or anytime you need a sweet fix.
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Why This Recipe Works
Unlike traditional cookies that need mixing, chilling, and baking, this no bake version saves time without sacrificing flavor. The boiled sugar mixture coats the pecans and cranberries beautifully, creating a cookie that’s crisp yet chewy.
Perfect for Parties and Gifting
These cookies set up beautifully on wax paper and make excellent gifts during the holiday season. They’re colorful, festive, and unique compared to classic cookie recipes, making them a great addition to any dessert platter.
Ingredients
- 2 cups pecans, chopped
- 2 cups dried cranberries (like Craisins)
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 2½ cups sugar
- ½ cup evaporated milk
- ½ cup corn syrup (light or dark)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pecan and Cranberry Mixture
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the chopped pecans and dried cranberries. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Sugar Mixture
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the sugar, evaporated milk, and corn syrup, stirring occasionally.
Bring the mixture to a boil and let it boil for exactly 3 minutes, stirring to prevent burning.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
Quickly add the pecan and cranberry mixture.
Stir vigorously for 4 minutes until everything is fully coated.
Step 4: Form the Cookies
Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto wax or parchment paper, forming individual cookies.
Step 5: Let Set
Allow the cookies to cool and set for 30–60 minutes before serving.
Recipe Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
Nutrition (per cookie, approx.)
- Calories: 185
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 15mg
- Sugar: 22g
No Bake Cranberry Pecan Praline Cookies
1. Can I substitute other nuts for pecans?
Yes, walnuts or almonds work well as substitutes, but pecans give the best praline flavor.
2. How long do these cookies last?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
3. Can I freeze no bake praline cookies?
Yes! Place them in a freezer-safe container with parchment between layers and freeze for up to 2 months.
4. Do I need to use light or dark corn syrup?
Either works. Light gives a milder sweetness, while dark adds a richer, deeper flavor.
5. What if my cookies don’t set?
If they remain sticky, the sugar mixture may not have boiled long enough. Make sure to boil for the full 3 minutes next time.