Maple Pecan No Bake Cookies
Need a treat that comes together fast and doesn’t involve turning on the oven? These Maple Pecan No-Bake Cookies are the perfect solution. With simple pantry ingredients like oats, butter, and pecans, you can whip them up in no time. The maple glaze on top adds just the right amount of sweetness, making these cookies my go-to!
No-bake cookies are just one of those recipes that make life easier. No need to worry about overbaking or watching the clock—you simply cook up the syrup, mix everything, and let them set. The hardest part is being patient while they firm up!
Why you’ll love these Maple Pecan No Bake Cookies
Sweet Simplicity, No Oven Needed!
No-bake cookies are a lifesaver when you just don’t feel like dealing with the oven. They’re quick, easy, and pretty much impossible to mess up. If you’re anything like me and tend to get distracted (hello, overbaked cookies), this recipe is foolproof. Just stir, scoop, and let them chill out on the counter. Honestly, the hardest part is waiting for them to set. And of course, I can’t resist adding a little maple glaze—because, why not make them look extra fancy with minimal effort?
Ingredients Needed for Maple Pecan No Bake Cookies
- Old Fashioned Oats: The base of the cookie, oats give them a chewy, hearty texture that holds up well to the syrup mixture.
- Maple Syrup: This is where the magic happens. Real maple syrup is key for that rich, sweet flavor that sets these cookies apart.
- Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and helps bind everything together.
- Pecans: Chopped pecans give a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor. You can toast them beforehand for even more depth.
- Powdered Sugar and Maple Syrup (for the glaze): This simple glaze adds just the right amount of sweetness on top. It’s easy to mix, and using a zip-lock bag makes it super simple to drizzle!
How to make Maple Pecan No Bake Cookies
**For more detailed instructions, please refer to the printable recipe card below.**
Combine oats and chopped pecans in a large bowl.
In a large saucepan, melt butter and maple syrup over medium-high heat. Stir constantly until the mixture reaches 240°F (use a candy thermometer—it’s crucial!).
Pour the syrup over the oats and pecans and stir thoroughly.
Use a cookie scoop to form cookies on the sheets. Flatten each cookie with a greased glass/cup or shape with your hands and place a pecan in the center of each cookie.
Mix powdered sugar and maple syrup until smooth.
Transfer the maple glaze to a zip-lock bag, snip the corner, and drizzle over cookies.
Variations
- Chocolate Drizzle: Add a little melted dark or milk chocolate drizzle on top of the cookies for a decadent touch.
- Coconut Flakes: Stir in shredded coconut to add a tropical vibe.
- Nutty Swap: Try using walnuts or almonds in place of pecans for a different flavor.
- Spiced Maple: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the oats mixture for a cozy, spiced version.
- Dried Fruit: Mix in some chopped dried cranberries or raisins for a chewy, fruity twist.
Serving Suggestions
- With Coffee or Tea: These cookies are perfect with your morning coffee or afternoon tea for a sweet, crunchy snack.
- Holiday Treat Platter: Add these cookies to your holiday dessert spread for a fun and unique option.
- Topped with Ice Cream: Crumble a few cookies over vanilla ice cream for a maple-pecan sundae.
- Gift Bags: Wrap them in a cute bag with a ribbon for a homemade holiday or hostess gift. You could pair them with these Coconut Fudge pieces which are great for gifting too!
- Snack Time: Keep them in a jar for a quick, sweet snack whenever you need a little pick-me-up.
Storage and Freezing
- How should I store Maple Pecan No Bake Cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. The cool air helps them stay firm.
- Can I freeze Maple Pecan No Bake Cookies?
These cookies freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months.
Don’t forget to pin this for later!
Tips & Tricks
- Use a Large Pan: When cooking the syrup, use a large saucepan to prevent it from boiling over.
- Don’t Rush the Temp: Reaching 240°F is crucial for the syrup to set properly. Be patient—this part makes all the difference.
- Flatten Evenly: When pressing the cookies, use a greased measuring cup or your hands to get a uniform shape. This makes them look pretty and ensures even cooling.
- Flip the Cookies: Don’t forget to flip the cookies after the first hour so they set properly on both sides.
- Add Glaze Last: Wait until the cookies are completely cooled before adding the glaze, so it doesn’t melt into the cookies.
Recommended
More Sweet Treats
FAQ
Maple Pecan No Bake Cookies
Equipment
- Parchment paper
- large mixing bowl
- Large saucepan
- Candy thermometer
- Cookie scoop
- Measuring cup
Ingredients
- 4 Cups Old Fashioned Oats
- 2 ½ Cups Maple Syrup
- 1 Stick Unsalted Butter ½ cup
- 1 Cup Finely Chopped Pecans
For the Glaze:
- ½ Cup Powdered Sugar
- 2-3 Tablespoons Maple Syrup
Instructions
- Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper. You can just line a work servace is you prefer. I use cookie sheets so I can easily move them.
- Combine oats and chopped pecans in a large mixing bowl. Set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter with maple syrup over medium-high heat. Stir constantly and cook until the mixture reaches 240°F on a candy thermometer (this is crucial, so be patient—if it doesn’t reach this temperature, the cookies won’t set properly). The mixture will bubble up, so use a large enough pan to prevent it from boiling over.
- Once the syrup mixture hits the right temperature, immediately pour it over the oats and pecans, and stir well to combine.
- Use a cookie scoop to form 24 cookies on the prepared cookie sheets.
- Flatten each cookie with a greased measuring cup or gently shape with your hands. Place one pecan on each cookie while they are still warm.
- Let the cookies rest for 1 hour, then flip and let sit for another hour.
For the Maple Glaze:
- Mix powdered sugar and maple syrup in a bowl until smooth.
- Transfer the glaze to a zip-lock bag, snip off a small corner, and drizzle over the cookies.