Christmas Rum Balls Or Bourbon Balls Recipe

Indulge in the festive spirit with these easy-to-make Christmas Rum Balls! These delightful treats are perfect for gifting or enjoying yourself. Made with rich cocoa, spiced rum (or bourbon!), crushed vanilla wafers (or chocolate cookies!), and crunchy nuts, these melt-in-your-mouth balls are even better after a week of mellowing. The recipe is adaptable – this year, I used chocolate cookies instead of vanilla wafers, and they were even more delicious! Get ready for rave reviews – these ice-cold treats are a guaranteed holiday hit!

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 20 mins
Calories 73.2 kcal
Protein 1g
Rating 4.3 (100 Reviews)
Christmas Rum Balls Or Bourbon Balls

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Christmas Rum Balls Or Bourbon Balls

  • Vanilla Wafers
  • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • Icing Sugar
  • 1/2 cup spiced rum (or bourbon)
  • White Corn Syrup
  • Pecans

How to Make Christmas Rum Balls Or Bourbon Balls

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Sift together 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder and 1 cup granulated sugar.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine 1/2 cup spiced rum (or bourbon) with 1/4 cup corn syrup.
  4. Add the rum/bourbon mixture to the cocoa and sugar mixture. Stir well to combine.
  5. Add 1 1/2 cups crushed vanilla wafers (or chocolate cookies) and 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or a mix).
  6. Mix thoroughly until well combined. The mixture will be moist.
  7. Using a teaspoon or two, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls.
  8. Roll the balls in the remaining 1/4 cup granulated sugar (optional).
  9. Place the rum balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  10. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are slightly firm. Do not overbake.
  11. Let cool completely on a wire rack.
  12. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer for up to 3 weeks. They are divine ice cold!

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Small additions can make a big impact! Try a sprinkle of fresh herbs, a dash of your favorite spice blend, or a squeeze of citrus just before serving to really enhance the flavors of your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

0 g

Sugar

27g

Fat

1g

Carbs

2g