These No-Bake Rum Balls are a classic treat perfect for the holidays or any time you need a sweet, boozy indulgence. Made with crushed cookies, cocoa powder, and just the right amount of rum, these bite-sized delights are easy to make and require no oven time. They’re rich, chocolatey, and have a kick that makes them a favorite at parties. Perfect as a homemade gift or as a festive addition to your dessert table, these rum balls are sure to impress.

Table of Contents

1. Ingredients
2. Instructions
3. Cook Notes & Tips
4. Recipe Variations
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
6. Conclusion

Ingredients

• 2 cups crushed vanilla wafer cookies (about 40 wafers)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts
• 1/4 cup light corn syrup
• 1/3 cup dark or spiced rum
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Additional powdered sugar, cocoa powder, or shredded coconut for rolling

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed vanilla wafer cookies, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and chopped nuts. Mix until well combined.
2. Add the Wet Ingredients
   • Add the corn syrup, rum, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir until the mixture is evenly moistened and forms a sticky dough.
3. Form the Balls
   • Using your hands, shape the mixture into 1-inch balls. You should get about 24-30 rum balls, depending on the size.
4. Coat the Rum Balls
   • Roll each rum ball in powdered sugar, cocoa powder, or shredded coconut until fully coated.
5. Chill
   • Place the rum balls in an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Cook Notes & Tips

• Crushing Cookies: Use a food processor to easily crush the vanilla wafer cookies, or place them in a resealable bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
• Rum Flavor: If you prefer a stronger rum flavor, you can add an extra tablespoon of rum. Just be mindful of the consistency of the mixture.
• Chilling Time: Chilling the rum balls allows the flavors to meld and improves the texture, making them taste even better.

Recipe Variations

• Bourbon Balls: Replace the rum with bourbon for a different twist on this classic recipe.
• Chocolate Lovers: Add 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips to the mixture for extra chocolatey goodness.
• No-Nut Version: Omit the chopped nuts if you have allergies or prefer a nut-free version. You can add extra crushed wafers to maintain the texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How long do rum balls keep? A: Rum balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. In fact, they often taste better after a few days as the flavors develop.

Q: Can I freeze rum balls? A: Yes, you can freeze rum balls! Store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.

Q: Can I make these alcohol-free? A: Absolutely! You can replace the rum with orange juice or apple juice for a non-alcoholic version.

These No-Bake Rum Balls are the perfect combination of rich chocolate, crunchy nuts, and a hint of boozy flavor. They’re easy to make, require no baking, and are always a hit at parties and gatherings. Whether you make them for a special occasion or just to have a little treat on hand, these rum balls are sure to please. Enjoy making (and eating) these delightful little bites!