Easy Rum Balls: A Decadent Festive Treat

Looking for a festive treat that’s easy to make and irresistibly delicious? My homemade rum balls are the perfect holiday indulgence! With a rich blend of chocolate, nuts, and a hint of rum, each bite is a burst of flavor that will delight your taste buds.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, gifting them to loved ones, or simply treating yourself, these no-bake delights are a must-try. Follow this simple recipe to whip up a batch of these crowd-pleasing sweets that are as elegant as they are tasty!

Easy Rum Balls

Ingredients

1 ¾ cups (200 g) finely crushed chocolate cookies or graham crackers
1 cup (100 g) finely ground pecans or walnuts
1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting)
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
¼ cup (60 ml) dark rum
2 tablespoons light honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Coating: Dust with powdered sugar or coat with 7 oz (200 g) melted milk

Instructions

Line your baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a food processor pulse cookies set aside then pulse the pecans or walnuts.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed cookies, ground nuts, powdered sugar, and cocoa powder. Stir until well blended.

In a small bowl combine rum, honey or (maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Mix until the ingredients form a moist, cohesive dough.

Scoop out small portions of the mixture (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll them into smooth balls. Place the balls on a parchment-lined tray.

Refrigerate the shaped balls for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

Coat with Chocolate

Melt the chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in the microwave in short bursts.

Using a fork or a skewer, dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Allow the excess chocolate to drip off before placing it back on the tray.

Once all the balls are coated, sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar on top for decoration.

Refrigerate the rum balls for another 15-20 minutes, or until the chocolate is set.

Variations

Booze-Free Option
Substitute the rum with orange juice or coffee for a non-alcoholic version that’s just as flavorful.

Different Spirits
Experiment with other spirits like bourbon, brandy, or amaretto to create unique flavor profiles.

Flavor Boost
Add a teaspoon of instant coffee granules or orange zest to the mixture for an extra depth of flavor.

Nut-Free Version
Replace the ground nuts with shredded coconut or additional crushed cookies to accommodate nut allergies.

Coconut Coating
Roll the balls in desiccated coconut instead of chocolate or powdered sugar for a tropical twist.

Dark Chocolate Lovers
Use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate for a more intense, bittersweet flavor.

Cripsy Coatings
Change your flavors and presentation by experimenting with finely crushed nuts, sprinkles, crushed wafers, crushed cookies, or even finely grated chocolate.

Creative Uses

Rum balls are not just a standalone treat they can elevate other desserts, too!

• Use them as edible decorations by placing them on cakes or cupcakes for a festive touch.
• Crumble leftover rum balls over vanilla ice cream to create a decadent dessert topping.
• A show-stopping dessert platter, pair them with fresh fruit, cheese, and other bite-sized sweets to impress your guests.

Serving & Pairing Suggestions

Rum balls are a versatile treat that pairs beautifully with various beverages. For a cozy evening, serve them with a warm cup of spiced tea, hot chocolate, or freshly brewed coffee. If you’re hosting a festive gathering, pair rum balls at room temperature with a glass of dessert wine, such as port or sherry, to enhance the richness of the flavors. Want a more indulgent twist try serving them alongside spiced eggnog or even a creamy liqueur like Baileys.

Storage Tips

To keep rum balls fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. The flavors will deepen with time!

For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.

Rum Ball Recipe Card

One-Pot Cooking Rocks!