No-Bake Cranberry Pecan Praline Cookies: Your New Go-To Holiday Recipe

Craving something sweet, crunchy, and holiday-ready without the hassle of baking? These No-Bake Cranberry Pecan Praline Cookies are your answer! Bursting with tart cranberries, toasty pecans, and a caramel-like praline sweetness, these cookies come together in minutes and require zero oven time. They’re perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while staying on track. Ideal for holiday parties, cookie swaps, or a quick snack, these bites are as easy as they are delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No-Bake Magic: Ready in 15 minutes—no oven, no fuss!
• WW-Friendly: Low in SmartPoints but high in flavor.
• Festive & Customizable: Swap in your favorite nuts or dried fruit.
• Meal Prep Hero: Stores beautifully in the fridge or freezer.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Gluten-free and easily adaptable for vegan diets.

Ingredients

• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats (gluten-free if needed)
• 1/2 cup pecans, chopped and lightly toasted
• 1/3 cup dried cranberries (unsweetened or reduced-sugar)
• 1/4 cup powdered peanut butter (like PB2) or protein powder
• 1/4 cup sugar-free maple syrup 
• 2 tbsp light butter or coconut oil
• 1/4 cup brown sugar substitute (e.g., Swerve)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt
• Optional: 1-2 tbsp water (if mixture is too dry)

Instructions

Toast the Pecans

1. In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the chopped pecans for 3-4 minutes until fragrant. Stir constantly to avoid burning. Set aside.

Mix Dry Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, combine oats, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, powdered peanut butter (or protein powder), and salt.

Make the Praline “Glue”

1. In a small saucepan, melt the light butter (or coconut oil) over low heat.
2. Stir in the sugar-free maple syrup, brown sugar substitute, and vanilla extract. Simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened.

Combine & Shape

1. Pour the warm praline mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir until fully coated. If the mixture feels too dry, add water 1 tbsp at a time.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop 1-tbsp portions of the mixture onto the sheet. Press firmly to compact (they’ll hold better!).

Chill & Serve

1. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set. For firmer cookies, freeze for 15 minutes.
2. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for 2 months.

Nutritional Information

(Per cookie)

• Calories: ~70
• Protein: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 8g (Net carbs: 6g)
• Fat: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• WW SmartPoints: ~2-3 (calculated with sugar-free syrup and powdered peanut butter).

Tips for Success

1. Bind It Right: If the mixture crumbles, add a splash of water or extra syrup.
2. Go Vegan: Use coconut oil and maple syrup (note: points may increase slightly).
3. Add Flair: Mix in orange zest, dark chocolate chips (add 1 point), or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
4. Portion Control: Use a mini muffin tin to shape uniform cookies.

Why This Recipe Works for Weight Watchers

Traditional praline cookies are loaded with butter and sugar, but this version slashes points by:

• Using powdered peanut butter instead of regular PB (saves fat and calories).
• Opting for sugar-free syrup and brown sugar substitute to cut added sugars.
• Keeping portions small but satisfying with fiber-rich oats and nuts.

Serving Ideas

• Holiday Platter: Arrange with fresh rosemary sprigs and pomegranate seeds for a festive touch.
• Yogurt Topping: Crumble over non-fat Greek yogurt for a breakfast treat.
• Gift Idea: Pack in cute jars or boxes for a thoughtful WW-friendly holiday gift.

These No-Bake Cranberry Pecan Praline Cookies are proof that healthy eating doesn’t mean skipping dessert! With their chewy texture, nutty crunch, and festive flair, they’re a must-try for busy days, holiday gatherings, or anytime you need a quick sweet fix. Whip up a batch, share with friends, and enjoy the season—guilt-free!