Sweet, nutty, and irresistibly indulgent, these Caramel Pecan No-Bake Cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion. With the buttery richness of caramel and the crunch of toasted pecans, these cookies are a no-bake dream. Quick to prepare and absolutely delightful, they’re perfect for holiday gatherings, gift boxes, or satisfying your sweet tooth anytime.
Ingredients
- Butter (1/2 cup): Adds richness and helps create the caramel base.
- Brown Sugar (1 cup): Provides sweetness and deep caramel flavor.
- Heavy Cream (1/4 cup): Creates a silky, smooth caramel texture.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness.
- Quick-Cooking Oats (3 cups): Forms the chewy base of the cookies.
- Toasted Pecans (1 cup, chopped): Adds crunch and nutty flavor.
- Sea Salt (optional, for garnish): Enhances the caramel flavor and adds a decorative touch.
Supplies Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Spoon or cookie scoop
Instructions
- Prepare Your Workspace: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat and set aside.
- Create the Caramel Base: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream. Stir constantly until the mixture begins to bubble.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat and let the caramel mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Remove from Heat: Take the saucepan off the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
- Add the Oats and Pecans: Gradually mix in the quick-cooking oats and toasted pecans until fully coated in the caramel mixture.
- Form the Cookies: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, shaping into 1-inch mounds.
- Chill: Refrigerate the cookies for at least 30 minutes to firm up before serving.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 1 week to maintain freshness.
- Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Recipe Tips & Tricks
- Toasting Pecans: Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes to enhance their flavor.
- Customize the Texture: For a crunchier cookie, use old-fashioned oats instead of quick-cooking oats.
- Garnish Ideas: Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt or drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra indulgent touch.
Variations
- Chocolate-Caramel Combo: Mix in 1/4 cup of mini chocolate chips for a gooey chocolate twist.
- Maple Pecan: Replace the brown sugar with maple syrup for a uniquely sweet flavor.
- Nut-Free Option: Substitute pecans with sunflower seeds for an allergy-friendly version.
FAQ
- Can I use old-fashioned oats?: Yes, but the texture will be chewier and less uniform.
- How do I prevent sticking?: Lightly grease your hands or use a cookie scoop.
- Can I make these ahead of time?: Absolutely! They’re great for preparing a day or two in advance.
Final Thoughts
Caramel Pecan No-Bake Cookies are the perfect blend of sweet and nutty indulgence. With their rich caramel flavor and crunchy pecans, they’re a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Make a batch today and enjoy the effortless luxury of these no-bake treats!
“As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Some links on this site are affiliate links. Portions of this content are generated by AI.”