Decadent Holiday Rum Balls Recipe

Welcome to my cozy kitchen! Today, I’m sharing a recipe that’s perfect for the holidays or anytime you’re craving something indulgent and festive. Rum Balls are a no-bake delight, combining rich chocolatey goodness with a hint of warmth from the rum. They’re easy to make, irresistibly delicious, and the perfect treat to share—or not, I won’t judge!

If decadent, bite-sized treats are your love language, these Rum Balls are about to become your best friend!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No baking required! These are perfect for those days you want a dessert but don’t want to turn on the oven.
• Made with pantry staples—most of these ingredients are probably already in your kitchen.
• Customizable! Adjust the flavor, add toppings, or make them kid-friendly.
• They’re a hit at holiday parties, but also an indulgent treat you can whip up year-round.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s what you’ll need to create these irresistible Rum Balls:

• Crushed cookie crumbs: I use vanilla wafers, but graham crackers or digestive biscuits work too.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds that rich chocolate flavor. Dutch-process cocoa gives a deeper flavor if you have it!
• Powdered sugar: For sweetness and as a binder.
• Light corn syrup: Helps hold everything together while keeping the balls moist.
• Rum: Dark or spiced rum adds a warm, aromatic flavor. For a non-alcoholic version, you can substitute with orange juice or vanilla extract!
• Finishing touches (optional): Roll these beauties in finely chopped nuts, sprinkles, or shredded coconut for an extra something special.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Rum Balls is as stress-free as it gets! Here’s how to create these little bites of bliss:

1. Prepare the cookie crumbs: Use a food processor to crush your cookies into fine crumbs. If you don’t have a food processor, place the cookies in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cookie crumbs, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar. Stir until everything is evenly distributed.
3. Add the wet ingredients: Stir in the corn syrup and rum until the mixture comes together. It should be moist but firm enough to hold its shape when rolled.
4. Roll into balls: Using a small scoop or spoon, grab portions of the mixture and roll them into 1-inch balls. If the mixture is sticky, dust your hands with a bit of powdered sugar.
5. Coat the balls: Roll each ball in your choice of toppings, like nuts, sprinkles, or coconut, for flavor and a fun finish.
6. Chill: Place the Rum Balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Chef’s Tips and Tricks

• For an intense chocolate flavor, use dark or Dutch-process cocoa powder.
• If your mixture feels too dry, add a tiny splash of rum or corn syrup until it’s workable.
• Use a melon baller or cookie scoop for evenly sized balls.
• Store the Rum Balls in the fridge for a firmer texture or at room temperature for a softer bite.

Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions

Want to mix things up? Here are some ideas:

• Non-Alcoholic: Replace rum with orange juice or almond extract for a kid-friendly version.
• Festive Flair: Roll the balls in red and green sprinkles for a holiday-ready treat.
• Double Chocolate: Dip the balls in melted chocolate for an extra layer of indulgence.
• Serving Suggestion: Pair these with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of eggnog for the ultimate holiday duo.

FAQs

• Can I make Rum Balls ahead of time? Absolutely! They actually taste better after a day or two in the fridge as the flavors develop. They can be stored for up to two weeks in an airtight container.
• Can I freeze Rum Balls? Yes, they freeze beautifully! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, and then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
• What type of rum should I use? Dark or spiced rum works best for a rich flavor. If you like a hint of sweetness, try a coconut or vanilla-infused rum.

Rum Balls Recipe Card

There you have it—your decadent, bite-sized Rum Balls are ready to impress! Whether you’re gifting these or keeping them all to yourself, I can’t wait to see how yours turn out. If you give this recipe a try, let me know in the comments or tag me on Instagram using #TheKitchensAid. Happy no-baking!