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No-Bake Cranberry Pecan Praline Cookies

Are you looking for a delightful treat that doesn’t require turning on the oven? Look no further! No-Bake Cranberry Pecan Praline Cookies are the answer to your craving for something sweet, chewy, and utterly delicious. These charming cookies blend the nutty crunch of pecans with the tart sweetness of dried cranberries, all enveloped in a rich, buttery caramel-like mix. The best part? You can whip them up in no time, making them the perfect quick-fix dessert for parties, family gatherings, or simply a cozy night in. Here’s a fun fact: Did you know that traditional pralines hail from New Orleans? This recipe is a delightful twist on that Southern classic, bringing in vibrant flavors that will make you smile with every bite. If you’ve ever enjoyed a classic rice crispy treat, you’ll love how these cookies evoke that same sense of nostalgia—all without the extra baking hassle! With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a batch of cookies that can charm even the pickiest eater in your family. So why wait? Let’s dive into this sweet adventure!
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Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups chopped pecans
  • 2 cups dried cranberries
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 1/2 cups sugar
  • 1/2 cup evaporated milk
  • 1/2 cup light corn syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions
 

  • Combine Ingredients: In a large saucepan, add the unsalted butter, sugar, evaporated milk, and light corn syrup. Stir them together to create a delicious base.
  • Heat Mixture: Place the pan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir constantly to prevent burning, because we want everything to melt harmoniously together.
  • Add Flavorings: Once the mixture reaches a rolling boil, remove it from the heat and add the vanilla extract. This will amp up the flavor and perfume the air with a mouthwatering aroma!
  • Combine Ingredients: Stir in the chopped pecans and dried cranberries until they are evenly coated with the gooey mixture.
  • Drop and Cool: Using a spoon, drop dollops of the mixture onto a wax paper-lined baking sheet. Give them some space, as they will spread slightly. Allow them to cool completely; this is when they’ll set and take form.
  • And just like that, you’ve created a delightful batch of cookies to savor.
  • What to Serve No-Bake Cranberry Pecan Praline Cookies With:
  • These No-Bake Cranberry Pecan Praline Cookies pair excellently with a variety of treats and beverages. Consider serving them alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack. For an extra touch of festivity, try them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for your dessert table. They also make a colorful addition to your holiday cookie platter, inviting guests to enjoy a mix of textures and flavors.
  • Top Tips for Perfecting No-Bake Cranberry Pecan Praline Cookies:
  • Stir Constantly: Ensure you stir the mixture continuously while heating to prevent any burning or uneven texture. It’s like your own personal dance with the ingredients!
  • Adjust Ingredients: Feel free to swap out cranberries for other dried fruits like cherries or apricots, and nuts like almonds or walnuts for a different twist in flavor.
  • Let Them Set: If you find the mixture too sticky to work with, let it cool for a few minutes before dropping onto the baking sheet. This will help with consistency.
  • Check Cooling Time: Make sure the cookies are cooled entirely before trying to lift them off the wax paper for the perfect shape.
  • Storing and Reheating Tips:
  • To keep your No-Bake Cranberry Pecan Praline Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week, but I doubt they’ll last that long! If you have leftovers, great news—you can also freeze them. Place them in a freezer-safe container, and they will hold their flavor for about a month. Just make sure to let them thaw at room temperature for about 20 minutes before enjoying again.
  • So whether you’re whipping these up for a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, these No-Bake Cranberry Pecan Praline Cookies are sure to delight! Happy baking—or shall I say, happy mixing!