These No-Bake Cranberry Pecan Praline Cookies are an easy treat made with buttery caramelized sugar, crunchy pecans, chewy dried cranberries, and hearty rolled oats. They have all the cozy flavors of a homemade holiday cookie without turning on the oven.
The praline mixture comes together quickly on the stovetop, then gets combined with the oats, pecans, and cranberries before being shaped into cookies. Once they cool and set, you have a delicious batch ready to enjoy.
🛒 Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- 2 cups rolled oats
- ½ teaspoon salt
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Roughly chop the pecans and measure out the dried cranberries and rolled oats. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Make the Praline Mixture
In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, butter, and heavy cream. Place over medium heat and stir frequently as the butter melts and the mixture comes to a gentle boil.
3. Cook Until Slightly Thickened
Continue stirring and let the mixture bubble for about 2–3 minutes, until it thickens slightly and develops a light caramel color.
4. Add Vanilla and Salt
Remove the saucepan from the heat immediately. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
5. Add the Mix-Ins
Add the chopped pecans and dried cranberries. Stir well to distribute them throughout the praline mixture.
6. Add the Oats
Fold in the rolled oats until they are completely coated and the mixture is evenly combined.
7. Shape the Cookies
Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, drop portions of the mixture onto the prepared parchment-lined baking sheet. Leave about 1 inch between each cookie.
8. Let Them Set
Allow the cookies to cool at room temperature for about 30–40 minutes, or place the baking sheet in the refrigerator to speed up the setting process.
Once firm, the cookies are ready to enjoy.
⭐ Tips for Success
- Toast the pecans: For extra flavor, toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes before chopping.
- Try different dried fruit: Raisins or chopped dried apricots can be used instead of cranberries.
- If the mixture is sticky: Lightly dampen your hands with water when shaping the cookies.
- Work quickly: The praline mixture becomes thicker as it cools, so shape the cookies while it is still warm and easy to handle.
🧊 Storage
Store the finished cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. For a firmer texture, you can also keep them refrigerated.
📋 Recipe Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Setting Time: 30–40 minutes
Total Time: About 40 minutes
Servings: About 18 cookies
Calories: Approximately 150 per cookie
❤️ Final Thoughts
These No-Bake Cranberry Pecan Praline Cookies are perfect when you want something sweet and festive without spending hours in the kitchen. The buttery praline coating, chewy cranberries, crunchy pecans, and oats make every bite satisfying.
They’re especially nice for holiday cookie trays, homemade gifts, or a simple sweet treat with coffee or tea.