Easy Rum Balls

Rum balls are the ultimate treat for the holiday season. Sweet, nutty, and a hint of spirit, these treats make the perfect gift or addition to a cookie table at your holiday party.

Rum Ball Recipe

Have you ever had rum balls? How about bourbon balls? They are practically the same thing just different in spirit!

Rum balls have always had a place on our Christmas cookie tray and I can’t wait to share my family’s recipe with you.

This traditional holiday candy is a staple for us and will become one for you too. Perfect for cookie exchanges, giving as a gift for neighbors and coworkers, you might have to make more than one batch at at time. Best part is that this is a no bake recipe.

Also try my Butter Pecan Toffee or my Avalanche Cookies for fun homemade treats and edible gifts.

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Ingredients Needed

Powdered Sugar – Be sure to sift it before measuring.

Butter – Always use unsalted butter for best flavor.

Pecans – I like to use this toasted pecans recipe to bring out extra nutty flavor.

Lemon Juice – Fresh is best and it brings a brightness to the rum balls.

Rum – Use your favorite brand! Substitute water if you want to make these for kids of all ages.

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How to Make Rum Balls Recipe

First: Mix together the rum and lemon juice and set aside. Mix together the butter and confectioners sugar in a large bowl.

Second: Pour the rum and lemon juice mixture in the powdered sugar/butter mix. Stir until combined. Fold in the pecans.

Third: Roll into 1-inch balls. I like to use an ice cream scoop so they are all the same size and it keeps my hands clean.

Fourth: Roll them in powdered sugar, sanding sugar, or sprinkles if desired. You can also roll in chopped nuts. Place in the refrigerator and let chill for 1 hour. Enjoy!

I wouldn’t make the rum balls more than one inch balls in size. They are potent and rich and will overwhelm your senses quickly!

For the full recipe and detailed instructions, please refer to the recipe card at the bottom of the post.

What do you roll rum balls in?

• rainbow sprinkles
• chocolate sprinkles
• powdered sugar
• cocoa powder
• chopped nuts
• crushed graham crackers
• wafer or cookie crumbs

How to Store Rum Balls

Because of the butter, you should store them in the refrigerator. Store in an airtight container and they will last for two weeks.

Can I freeze them?

Yes, you can freeze them for up to a month in an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, remove from the freezer and bring to room temperature.

Can I make rum balls without vanilla wafers?

This is the perfect recipe for that! Of course, it makes them a little more potent:) Most recipes use crushed vanilla wafers but this one does not.

Rum balls are made with actual rum and are considered alcoholic so please enjoy responsibly. Although, you would have to eat a bunch of them to actually get intoxicated.

What can I use instead of rum?

If you don’t want to use rum, feel free to use another spirit or water for that matter. It will take all the fun out of them being rum balls though.

Why are my rum balls dry?

If your rum balls come out dry or are hard to shape, add a little more butter or rum and stir the mixture again. Keep adding 1 tablespoon at a time until the batter is the right consistency.

What is the best rum for rum balls?

I like to use white rum, but you can use flavored rum, spiced rum, or your favorite dark rum. You can also use bourbon or amaretto.

Looking for a truffle small sweet to take to a party you’ve been invited to? Check out all my small sweets recipes, both sweet and savory, to fit your special occasion!

Tapas Tips & Tricks

• This recipe doesn’t use corn syrup which is amazing!
• Use an ice cream scoop for uniform rum balls
• Leave plain or roll in powdered sugar, raw, sugar, sprinkles, shredded coconut, cocoa powder, or chopped nuts.
• Mix the butter and powdered sugar in a food processor if easier. Just not too much.
• Use a rolling pin to smash or crush your nuts instead of chopping them with a knife.
• Make them ahead of time and save on stress during the holiday season!

If you love this recipe as much as I do, please write a five-star review in the comment section below (or on Pinterest with the “tried it” button – you can now add pictures into reviews, too!), and be sure to help me share on facebook!

In less than 5 minutes you have these boozy rum balls ready to go!

Beverages:

Frozen White Hot Chocolate from Jonesin’ For Taste
Instant Pot Peppermint Hot Chocolate from The Crumby Kitchen
Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate from Rants From My Crazy Kitchen
Salted Caramel Mocha Latte from Hezzi-D’s Books and Cooks

Breakfast:

Cranberry Breakfast Cake from Family Around the Table
Easy Homemade Eggnog Pancakes from Love and Confections

Candies:

Grinch Rice Krispie Treats from Cheese Curd in Paradise
Homemade Fudge from Juggling Act Mama

Desserts:

Eggnog Gingerbread Layer Cake from Culinary Adventures with Camilla
Italian Anise Biscotti from Blogghetti
No-Bake Gingerbread Cheesecake from Daily Dish Recipes
Orange Meltaways from An Affair from the Heart
Snowman Christmas Cake from The Redhead Baker
Snowmen Macarons from A Kitchen Hoor’s Adventures

This recipe is intended for individuals ages 21 & up. Please drink responsibly.

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