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GRANDMA’S RUM BALLS

Sana Umer
These classic Grandma’s Rum Balls are rich, moist, and packed with rum flavor. Perfect for holiday parties or gifting, they combine chocolate, nuts, and a touch of sweetness in bite-sized treats everyone will love.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dessert, Holiday Treat, Snack
Cuisine American, Confectionery
Servings 30 rum balls
Calories 110 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups vanilla wafer crumbs about 2 sleeves
  • 1 ½ cups powdered sugar divided
  • 1 ½ cups finely chopped walnuts or pecans
  • ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ¾ cup dark rum
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Extra powdered sugar or cocoa powder for rolling

Instructions
 

Mix Dry Ingredients:

  • In a large bowl, combine vanilla wafer crumbs, 1 cup powdered sugar, chopped nuts, and cocoa powder. Mix well.

Add Wet Ingredients:

  • Stir in rum and vanilla extract until the mixture is moist and holds together when pressed. If too dry, add a little more rum.

Shape the Rum Balls:

  • Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls using your hands.

Coat the Balls:

  • Roll each ball in the remaining powdered sugar or cocoa powder to coat evenly.

Chill:

  • Place rum balls on a tray and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let flavors meld.

Notes

  • Make Ahead: Rum balls can be made up to a week ahead and stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
  • Alcohol-Free Option: Substitute rum with rum extract or omit alcohol altogether for a kid-friendly version.
  • Nuts: Feel free to swap walnuts with pecans or almonds according to preference.
  • Serving: These are perfect party bites and also make great homemade gifts during holidays.
  • Storage: Keep refrigerated to maintain freshness and prevent them from becoming sticky.
Keyword rum balls, holiday treats, no-bake dessert, chocolate rum balls, festive sweets, easy rum balls recipe