Include in Print View:

Kathy’S Rum Balls

Kathy's Rum Balls recipe image
These classic Rum Balls are the ultimate no-bake holiday treat, combining the crunch of vanilla wafers and pecans with the deep richness of Dutch cocoa. The mixture is bound together with Karo syrup and a generous splash of rum, bourbon, or amaretto, creating a moist, fudgy interior that melts in your mouth. Rolled in confectioners' sugar, they offer a beautiful contrast of textures and flavors. Perfect for gifting or serving at parties, these truffles improve with age as the flavors meld together in the refrigerator. They are simple to assemble, requiring no oven time, making them an effortless yet elegant addition to any dessert table.
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 6
Calories: 15.8
Dietary: Gluten-free, Vegan, Vegetarian
Description
These classic Rum Balls are the ultimate no-bake holiday treat, combining the crunch of vanilla wafers and pecans with the deep richness of Dutch cocoa. The mixture is bound together with Karo syrup and a generous splash of rum, bourbon, or amaretto, creating a moist, fudgy interior that melts in your mouth. Rolled in confectioners' sugar, they offer a beautiful contrast of textures and flavors. Perfect for gifting or serving at parties, these truffles improve with age as the flavors meld together in the refrigerator. They are simple to assemble, requiring no oven time, making them an effortless yet elegant addition to any dessert table.
Ingredients
  • 1 cup vanilla wafer crumbs
  • 1 cup confectioners' sugar (plus more for rolling)
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped pecans
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons Dutch cocoa
  • 1/4 cup rum, bourbon, or amaretto
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons Lite Karo syrup
Directions
  1. 1
    In a large mixing bowl, combine the vanilla wafer crumbs, confectioners' sugar, chopped pecans, and Dutch cocoa.
  2. 2
    Add the rum (or bourbon/amaretto) and Karo syrup to the dry ingredients.
  3. 3
    Mix thoroughly until the mixture resembles wet sand and holds together when pressed.
  4. 4
    Using a teaspoon, scoop small portions of the mixture and roll them between your palms to form smooth balls.
  5. 5
    Roll each ball in additional confectioners' sugar until fully coated.
  6. 6
    Place the finished rum balls on a foil-lined tray or into a tin.
  7. 7
    Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

Amount Per Serving
Calories 15.8kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 0.0g0%
Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 0.4mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 4.1g2%
Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
Sugars 1.8g
Protein 0.0g0%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Storage: Store rum balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 3 weeks. The flavors will deepen and the texture will soften over time, which many people prefer.

Variations: You can substitute the rum with bourbon for a richer flavor or amaretto for a nutty twist. For a non-alcoholic version, use a rum extract or additional syrup, though the texture may be slightly less firm.

Tips: If the mixture is too dry to roll, add syrup one teaspoon at a time. If it is too wet, add more wafer crumbs or confectioners' sugar.

Preparation: Make sure your vanilla wafers are finely crushed for a smoother texture. You can use a food processor or place them in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin.

Keywords: rum balls, no bake, truffles, chocolate, pecans, vanilla wafers, holiday dessert, gift ideas, karo syrup, confectioners sugar, dutch cocoa, bourbon, amaretto, easy desserts, party snacks
Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/kathys-rum-balls/