No-Bake Cranberry Pecan Praline Cookies cozy, crunchy, and ready in minutes

These no-bake cranberry pecan praline cookies are a perfect holiday snack or an anytime treat when you want something sweet without turning on the oven. Sticky, nutty praline surrounds tart dried cranberries for a candy-like cluster that is both portable and elegant. They come together in a single saucepan and set on a sheet pan, so cleanup is minimal and the payoff is enormous. If you love festive bites, they pair beautifully with other cookie ideas like a pistachio-cranberry wreath for a colorful platter.

## Why This Recipe Is a Great Choice

This recipe shines because it balances speed with showstopping flavor. The caramel-praline coating forms fast on the stovetop and clings to chopped toasted pecans and bright dried cranberries, creating bite-sized rounds that look as good as they taste. No tempering chocolate, no chilling time beyond a quick set — just stir, spoon, and let them cool. They’re ideal for gifting in little boxes or arranging on a holiday cookie board where texture contrast matters. The handful of pantry-friendly ingredients means you can improvise easily, and they travel well for potlucks or classroom treats. For a savory-sweet holiday snack board idea, consider pairing flavors inspired by other recipes like these rosemary parmesan cookies: https://cookaza.com/savory-cranberry-rosemary-parmesan-cookies/.

Flavor and Texture

Each cookie delivers a satisfying crackle from toasted pecans followed by a buttery, caramelized sweetness that’s not overwhelming. The dried cranberries add pops of tartness that cut through the brown sugar richness, keeping each bite lively. The praline coating hardens just enough to hold clusters together while still offering a slightly chewy center if you don’t let them set too long. Because the base is simple caramel, you can taste the nuttiness of the pecans and the deep molasses notes of the brown sugar. Serve at room temperature so the textures and flavors are most pronounced.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1 cup toasted pecans, chopped
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Step by Step Instructions

1. In a saucepan, combine the brown sugar, heavy cream, unsalted butter, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat and let it boil for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the dried cranberries and toasted pecans.
3. Pour the caramel mixture over the cranberry-pecan mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Spoon the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, forming rounds.
5. Allow to cool and set for about 20 minutes before serving.

Tips for Best Results

Toast the pecans until fragrant and slightly darker to amplify their crunch and deepen flavor, but watch them closely so they don’t burn. Use full-fat heavy cream and real butter for the smoothest, richest caramel; lower-fat swaps will change the set and mouthfeel. Work quickly when pouring the caramel over the nut-berry mix so the coating is even before it begins to thicken. For perfectly uniform rounds, use a small cookie scoop or two spoons dipped in hot water between scoops to prevent sticking. If you want a different nut or a gluten-free twist, swap pecans for walnuts or almonds and follow the same method.

Storage and Make Ahead

Once set, store these praline cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to retain their texture. If you need them to last longer, refrigerate for up to a week but allow them to come to room temperature before serving to restore chew and flavor. They also freeze well for up to one month; layer parchment between batches to avoid sticking and thaw on the counter. Make them a day ahead for a stress-free hosting solution.

Final Thought

These no-bake cranberry pecan praline cookies are proof that a small number of ingredients can yield big results. They’re quick, visually charming, and perfect for sharing whenever you want an easy homemade treat. Keep the recipe in your back pocket for last-minute entertaining or a thoughtful edible gift.

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