Festive Cranberry Pecan Praline Cookies (No-Bake)
Introduction
These Cranberry Pecan Praline Cookies are the ultimate holiday treat—sweet, nutty, and bursting with festive flavor. Best of all, they’re no-bake, which means you can whip them up quickly without turning on the oven. With buttery praline richness, chewy cranberries, and crunchy pecans, these cookies are perfect for cookie exchanges, holiday dessert platters, or simply enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
No-bake convenience: Ready in minutes, no oven required.
Festive flavors: Cranberries add tartness, pecans bring crunch, and praline gives caramel-like sweetness.
Perfect for gifting: Package in tins or jars for homemade holiday presents.
Crowd-pleaser: A unique cookie that stands out on any dessert table.
Recipe Details
Yields: 18–20 cookies
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time (stovetop): 10 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: ~55 minutes
Ingredients
1½ cups granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter
½ cup whole milk or evaporated milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup chopped pecans
½ cup dried cranberries
Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Cookie Base
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Measure out pecans and cranberries so they’re ready to stir in quickly.
- Make the Praline Mixture
In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, butter, and milk.
Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
Boil for 3–4 minutes until mixture thickens slightly and takes on a caramel-like aroma.
- Flavor & Mix
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
Quickly fold in chopped pecans and cranberries until evenly coated.
- Form the Cookies
Drop spoonfuls of mixture onto prepared baking sheet.
Work quickly, as the praline mixture sets fast.
- Chill & Serve
Let cookies cool at room temperature for 15 minutes, then transfer to the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up.
Once set, enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container.
Tips for Success
Work quickly: Praline mixture hardens fast, so have ingredients prepped.
Use parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
Texture balance: Chop pecans finely for crunch without overpowering.
Storage: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Variations
Chocolate drizzle: Add melted dark chocolate over cooled cookies for extra indulgence.
Coconut twist: Mix in shredded coconut for added texture.
Nut swap: Try walnuts or almonds instead of pecans.
Cranberry-orange: Add orange zest for a citrusy holiday flavor.
Serving Ideas
Arrange on a festive platter with other holiday cookies.
Pair with hot cocoa, mulled wine, or spiced tea.
Wrap individually in cellophane for party favors.
Conclusion
These Festive Cranberry Pecan Praline Cookies are sweet, nutty, and irresistibly chewy. With their no-bake simplicity and holiday flair, they’re a must-have for your seasonal celebrations.