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    Home » Dessert Recipes

    Published: Jun 9, 2019 · Modified: Nov 11, 2022 by Renée · This post may contain affiliate links · 8 Comments

    Coconut Pecan Praline Candy

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    You can either thank me for this recipe of Coconut Pecan Praline Candy or curse me out! They're so good and so addicting you may eat them all by yourself! Sorry. Not sorry!

    A closeup photo of one piece of pecan praline candy being held by a hand.
    Coconut Pecan Praline Candy! I double dog dare you to eat just one!

    Not that long ago, I was given a bag of the most delicious pecans from my dear sweet friend Nancie McDermott.

    I wanted to make something extra special with these delicious pecans, and something quintessentially southern. I settled on making coconut pecan praline candy, and I'm 100% certain they're the best pecan pralines I've ever made or eaten! 

    Jump to:
    • The ingredients needed:
    • Can I make pecan praline candy without the coconut?
    • Can this praline recipe be frozen after it's made?
    • What other nuts can be used to make praline candy?
    • If I want to double or triple this recipe, is it easy to do?
    • Is it best to use salted or unsalted nuts for this candied nut recipe?
    • Should the nuts be roasted or toasted before making praline candy?
    • Why is salt listed in an ingredient in this praline candy recipe?
    • Can these coconut pecan praline candies be coated in melted chocolate?
    • The easy instructions:
    • Printable Recipe Card

    Go now to like and subscribe to my Kudos Kitchen channel on YouTube! 

    **Please Note - The printable recipe card with detailed instructions, complete ingredient measurements, and nutritional information for making coconut pecan praline candy is available at the end of this post. 

    Square plate piled high with coconut pecan praline candy.

    The ingredients needed:

    **Note - The following list of ingredients contains affiliate links for your shopping convenience.

    • Whole Pecans, shelled
    • Flaked Coconut, I used unsweetened
    • Brown Sugar
    • Granulated Sugar
    • Half and Half
    • Butter
    • Pure Vanilla Extract
    • Salt 

    Can I make pecan praline candy without the coconut?

    YES! Just carry on with the recipe like coconut wasn't even listed in the ingredient list.

    Can this praline recipe be frozen after it's made?

    YES!

    Wrap the pecan pralines well and store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.

    What other nuts can be used to make praline candy?

    While pecans are the most traditional nut when it comes to southern pralines, but there are always other nut options to use if you like to march to the beat of your own drummer (as I normally do).

    How about using:

    • Cashews
    • Hazelnuts
    • Walnuts
    • Macadamia
    • Almonds
    • Peanuts
    • Pignolis (pine nuts)
    • Or how about a nut mix? YUUUUMMMMM!

    If I want to double or triple this recipe, is it easy to do?

    Sure thing! Just make sure if you're doing so that you use an extra large saucepan and bowl to mix all your ingredients.

    Also remember that as the candy cools, it hardens. So if you're doubling or tripling this recipe you'll have to work really fast in getting the individual candy pieces placed on the cookie sheets for cooling before it hardens.

    I might suggest working with one batch at a time just for this reason. But, you be the judge.

    Is it best to use salted or unsalted nuts for this candied nut recipe?

    You can use either.

    However, if you're using salted nuts, I would suggest not adding the additional pinch of salt called for in this recipe as you don't want the pralines to be overly salty.

    Should the nuts be roasted or toasted before making praline candy?

    I would never tell you 'no' when it comes to roasting or toasting nuts! However, I did not do that when I made these coconut pecan pralines, nor did I write it into the recipe.

    That said, should you choose to do it (as it would help to bring out more of a nutty flavor), spread the nuts out in an even layer on a baking sheet and place in a 350-degree oven for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

    Or, spread the nuts in an even layer in a large skillet over medium heat on the stovetop, and stir them continually for 4-5 minutes, or until you start to smell them. Once you smell them, you know they're ready.

    **Important - Do NOT leave nuts unattended (in the oven or on the stovetop) because they will burn quickly!!

    Why is salt listed in an ingredient in this praline candy recipe?

    Because salt (even a little pinch) brings out the flavor of all foods. Including sweets.

    I implore you not to leave the salt out of this recipe. Your taste buds will thank you!

    Can these coconut pecan praline candies be coated in melted chocolate?

    Are you kidding me?!!

    Of course, they can!

    Just remember that if and when you're freezing nut pralines with a chocolate coating that the chocolate may haze over slightly (turn grayish in color) which will change the appearance, but not the taste or your candy. Your call.

    However, you can always make the coconut pecan pralines, freeze them, and then when you're ready to serve (or gift) them, coat them at chocolate at that point. Just a suggestion.

    Closeup photo of a coconut pecan praline candy with a bite taken out.

    [mv_create title="Homemade Candy Recipes" key="33" type="list" layout="circles"]

    **The following affiliate links are some suggested products I’ve chosen that will aid you in the making and serving of this recipe for Coconut Pecan Praline Candy if desired.

    As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. When I find a great product or service I like to share it with my readers. For additional information please view my privacy policy.


    The easy instructions:

    • Assemble the ingredients.
    • In a heavy bottom saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
    • Add the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cream.
    • Increase the heat to medium-high.
    • Cook, stirring occasionally until the mixture comes to a boil. 
    • Continue cooking, stirring frequently, for approximately 10 minutes.
    How to make coconut pecan praline candy photo tutorial. - kudoskitchenbyrenee.com
    How to make coconut pecan praline candy photo tutorial. - kudoskitchenbyrenee.com
    How to make coconut pecan praline candy photo tutorial. - kudoskitchenbyrenee.com
    • Turn off the heat and stir in the salt, coconut, pecans, and vanilla extract.
    • Once completely combined, carefully but quickly drop the hot candy mixture, in tablespoons, onto a parchment lined baking sheet which has been sprayed with baking spray or coconut oil.
    • Cool completely (or chill in the refrigerator) for at least 30 minutes.
    • Serve at room temperature.
    • Enjoy!
    How to make coconut pecan praline candy photo tutorial. - kudoskitchenbyrenee.com
    How to make coconut pecan praline candy photo tutorial. - kudoskitchenbyrenee.com
    How to make coconut pecan praline candy photo tutorial. - kudoskitchenbyrenee.com
    Coconut Pecan Praline Candy Title Text vertical image

    Below is the printable recipe card for today’s homemade candy recipe. 

    If you’ve enjoyed this recipe and look forward to making it (or have already made it), I’d appreciate if you’d take a moment to give it some feedback by way of stars near the comment section at the end of this post. Thank you so much!

    Printable Recipe Card

    Square plate piled high with coconut pecan praline candy.

    Coconut Pecan Praline Candy

    Renee Goerger
    My fast and easy Southern candy adaptation that is quick to make and addicting to eat.
    4.38 from 8 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe Save recipe Saved Recipe!
    Prep Time 10 mins
    Cook Time 10 mins
    Cooling time 30 mins
    Total Time 50 mins
    Course Candy, Dessert, food gifts
    Cuisine American
    Servings 24 pieces
    Calories 149 kcal

    Equipment

    • heavy bottom saucepan
    • baking sheet
    • parchment paper
    • tablespoons
    • measuring cups
    • measuring spoons

    Ingredients
      

    • 1 cup brown sugar
    • 1 cup granulated sugar
    • ½ cup half and half
    • 1½ cups pecans shelled
    • 2 tablespoons butter
    • 1 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
    • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
    • pinch salt

    Instructions
     

    • In a heavy bottom saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.

    • Add the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cream.
    • Increase the heat to medium-high.
    • Cook, stirring occasionally until the mixture comes to a boil. 
    • Continue cooking, stirring frequently, for approximately 10 minutes.
    • Turn off the heat and stir in the salt, coconut, pecans, and vanilla extract.

    • Once completely combined, carefully but quickly drop the hot candy mixture, in tablespoons, onto a parchment lined baking sheet which has been sprayed with baking spray or coconut oil.
    • Cool completely (or chill in the refrigerator) for at least 30 minutes.
    • Serve at room temperature. Enjoy!

    Notes

    Wrap well and store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months, if desired.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1pieceCalories: 149kcalCarbohydrates: 19gProtein: 1gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 4mgSodium: 14mgPotassium: 63mgFiber: 1gSugar: 18gVitamin A: 50IUVitamin C: 0.2mgCalcium: 18mgIron: 0.3mg
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

    I sincerely hope you've enjoyed today's homemade candy recipe for coconut pecan pralines as much as I've enjoyed bringing it to you!

    Hand holding a pecan praline with a bite taken.

    Thank you so much for visiting me today in my Kudos Kitchen. I hope you found something you'll love and that you'll come back and visit me often. There is always room for you around my table!

    Should you have any questions or comments regarding anything you've seen here on my blog, please don't hesitate to reach out to me. It is always my distinct pleasure to respond to you just as soon as I possibly can.

    Custom Renee Signature

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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Michele1L says

      November 12, 2022 at 1:06 pm

      5 stars
      Bless your heart and THANK YOU for NOT using evaporated milk in your recipe!! I can't stand the smell and aftertaste of "canned milk" (insert tongue-out squiggly face) You, Renee, have created the perfect praline! *chef's kiss*

      Reply
      • Renée says

        November 12, 2022 at 1:40 pm

        Well, bless YOUR heart, Michele, for being so kind and for the 5-star rating!
        I really appreciate it and I send you a *chef's kiss* back!
        Have a great weekend!!! 🙂
        Renee

        Reply
    2. Carolyn pardee says

      December 30, 2021 at 4:02 pm

      Do u chop.the pecans

      Reply
      • Renée says

        December 31, 2021 at 7:53 am

        I didn't but you could if you like. Your call, Carolyn.
        Take good care,
        Renee

        Reply
    3. elena sastre says

      July 02, 2020 at 6:52 am

      Can you use sweetened coconut???

      Reply
      • Renée says

        July 02, 2020 at 8:49 am

        Hi, Elena!
        Yes, you can.
        I didn't want them to be over-the-top sweet, but if that's how you enjoy in your desserts,
        (or it is all you have in your pantry), I say go for it!
        Take good care!
        Renee

        Reply
    4. Jennifer Farley says

      June 10, 2019 at 9:04 am

      5 stars
      Addicting for sure! Thanks for the recipe!

      Reply
    5. wilhelmina says

      June 10, 2019 at 7:41 am

      5 stars
      Eating one is just not possible! These are way too delicious for restraint!

      Reply

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    Hi, I'm Renee! I've been a passionate home cook for over 40 years. I specialize in easy-to-make comfort food dishes from appetizers to desserts and everything in between.

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