No-Bake Cranberry Pecan Praline Cookies

Looking for a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of nuts and dried fruit? These No-Bake Cranberry Pecan Praline Cookies are just what you need. They boast a satisfying crunch from the pecans and a chewy texture from the rolled oats, all enveloped in a luscious caramel-like praline coating. The sweet and slightly tart cranberries add a vibrant touch, making each bite a delicious balance of flavors. Whether you are preparing for a family gathering, a holiday party, or simply want a sweet snack, these cookies offer a quick and easy solution with no baking required. Plus, your kitchen will smell heavenly as the ingredients melt together, creating an irresistible aroma.

Ingredients

1 cup Sugar: Provides the sweetness that makes these cookies a delightful treat.
1/2 cup Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and binds the ingredients together.
1/4 cup Heavy Cream: Contributes creaminess to the praline coating.
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor with a warm, sweet aroma.
1/2 cup Pecans, chopped: Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
1/2 cup Dried Cranberries: Provides a sweet and tangy contrast in each bite.
2 cups Rolled Oats: Serves as the base, giving the cookies structure and chewiness.
1/2 teaspoon Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by roughly chopping the pecans and measuring out the cranberries and oats to ensure that everything is ready for mixing.
In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, unsalted butter, and heavy cream.
Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently until the butter melts, and the mixture comes to a gentle boil.
Continue stirring as the mixture bubbles for about 2 to 3 minutes, until it thickens slightly and takes on a light caramel color.
Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
Add the chopped pecans and dried cranberries to the saucepan, stirring well to combine all ingredients.
Fold in the rolled oats, ensuring everything is evenly coated with the praline mixture.
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, drop mounds of the mixture onto the parchment, spacing them about an inch apart.
Allow the cookies to cool completely at room temperature for about 30 to 40 minutes, or refrigerate the sheet to speed up the process. Once set, enjoy your delicious cookies! Store leftovers in an airtight container.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 12 cookies
Calories: Approximately 220 per cookie

Tips, Storage & Variations

Tips: Make sure to chop the pecans into small pieces for an even distribution in the cookies.
Storage: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also refrigerate them for a firmer texture.
Freezing: These cookies freeze well. Just place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Variations: For a different flavor profile, try substituting walnuts for pecans or adding a pinch of cinnamon to the mixture for warmth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other nuts in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans if you prefer.
How do I make these cookies gluten-free?
Make sure to use certified gluten-free rolled oats.
Can I add chocolate chips to the mixture?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in some chocolate chips for added sweetness.
How long do these cookies last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, they can last up to a week.
Can I use light brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?
Yes, light brown sugar will add a richer flavor to the cookies.
Are these cookies suitable for children?
Yes, they are a great snack for children, but supervise younger kids with nuts if they have allergies.

Conclusion

These No-Bake Cranberry Pecan Praline Cookies are a delightful way to satisfy your sweet tooth without turning on the oven. They come together quickly and are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night at home. We hope you try this recipe and enjoy every bite. Don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family! Happy baking!

No-Bake Cranberry Pecan Praline Cookies

Print Recipe

Delightful no-bake cookies featuring pecans, cranberries, and a luscious praline coating, perfect for any occasion.

Author: amanda-lewis
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 12 cookies 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup Sugar
1/2 cup Unsalted Butter
1/4 cup Heavy Cream
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
1/2 cup Pecans, chopped
1/2 cup Dried Cranberries
2 cups Rolled Oats
1/2 teaspoon Salt

Instructions

Roughly chop the pecans and measure out the cranberries and oats.
In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, unsalted butter, and heavy cream.
Place saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently until butter melts and mixture comes to a gentle boil.
Continue stirring as the mixture bubbles for about 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens slightly and takes on a light caramel color.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt.
Add chopped pecans and dried cranberries, stirring well to combine.
Fold in rolled oats until everything is evenly coated.
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Drop mounds of the mixture onto the parchment, spacing them about an inch apart.
Allow cookies to cool at room temperature for about 30 to 40 minutes or refrigerate to speed up setting.