Rich, chocolatey, and spiked with a hint of dark rum, these no-bake Rum Balls are a festive holiday treat that come together in minutes. I love how they deliver a fudgy texture with just the right amount of sweetness and a warming boozy finish. Whether I’m making a batch for holiday parties or packaging them up as edible gifts, they never fail to impress.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 ½ cups crushed vanilla wafer cookies (about 11 oz)
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts
½ cup dark rum
2 tablespoons light corn syrup
Optional: extra powdered sugar or cocoa for rolling
Directions
I start by combining the crushed vanilla wafers, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and chopped nuts in a large mixing bowl.
Then I add in the dark rum and light corn syrup, stirring everything together until it forms a thick, sticky mixture.
I roll the mixture into 1-inch balls using my hands, trying to keep them uniform for even presentation.
For an extra touch, I roll some of the balls in powdered sugar or cocoa powder.
Once rolled, I place them on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate them for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields about 30 bite-sized balls.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Calories: 105 kcal per ball
Variations
I sometimes switch out the dark rum for spiced rum or bourbon for a different flavor twist. For a nut-free version, I leave out the pecans or walnuts and add more crushed cookies. Rolling them in shredded coconut or finely crushed peppermint candies adds a fun holiday flair. If I want to dial down the boozy taste, I cut the rum slightly and replace part of it with orange juice or coffee.
Storage/Reheating
I store these Rum Balls in an airtight container in the fridge, where they stay fresh for up to two weeks. They actually taste even better after a day or two, as the flavors deepen over time. I don’t need to reheat them—they’re best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If I’m gifting them, I layer them between wax paper in a decorative tin.
FAQs
How strong is the rum flavor in these balls?
The rum flavor is definitely present but not overpowering. If I prefer a milder taste, I reduce the amount slightly or mix it with another liquid like juice.
Can I make Rum Balls without alcohol?
Yes, I can substitute the rum with fruit juice like orange or apple juice for an alcohol-free version, though it will slightly change the texture and flavor.
Do I have to use vanilla wafer cookies?
Vanilla wafers work best for their flavor and texture, but I’ve also used graham crackers or digestive biscuits in a pinch with great results.
Can I freeze Rum Balls?
Absolutely. I freeze them in a single layer first, then transfer to a container or freezer bag. They keep well for up to two months—just thaw in the fridge before serving.
Are these safe for kids to eat?
Since they contain uncooked alcohol, these Rum Balls are meant for adults. If I’m making a batch for kids, I always use a non-alcoholic substitute.
Conclusion
These no-bake Rum Balls are one of my go-to holiday treats because they’re simple, customizable, and irresistibly delicious. Whether I’m serving them at a festive gathering or wrapping them up as edible gifts, they bring a perfect mix of decadence and charm to the table. With just a handful of ingredients and a little chill time, I get a dessert that’s big on flavor and low on effort.
📖 Recipe:
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Rum Balls
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 30 balls
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Rich, no-bake chocolate Rum Balls made with vanilla wafers, cocoa, nuts, and dark rum. Perfect for the holidays, gifting, or anytime you want a quick and indulgent treat.
Ingredients
2 ½ cups crushed vanilla wafer cookies (about 11 oz)
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts
½ cup dark rum
2 tablespoons light corn syrup
Optional: extra powdered sugar or cocoa for rolling
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed vanilla wafers, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and chopped nuts.
- Add the dark rum and light corn syrup to the dry mixture and stir until well combined and sticky.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls using your hands, aiming for uniform size.
- Optional: Roll the formed balls in additional powdered sugar or cocoa powder for coating.
- Place the balls on a parchment-lined tray.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up.
Notes
For a different twist, substitute dark rum with spiced rum or bourbon.
To make it nut-free, omit nuts and increase the crushed cookies.
Try rolling in shredded coconut or crushed peppermint candies for holiday flair.
Use fruit juice like orange juice for an alcohol-free version.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 105
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 35mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
