Rum balls – a sweet and indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. These bite-sized morsels are packed with flavor, thanks to the addition of dark rum, and are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re looking for a unique dessert to serve at your next holiday gathering or just want to treat yourself to something special, these decadent rum ball recipes are irresistible.
From classic chocolate rum balls to coconut, espresso, and even pumpkin spice, we’ve got 18 mouthwatering recipes to try. Each one is packed with the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, guaranteed to make your taste buds do the happy dance. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and indulge in a little bit of rum-soaked bliss.
Classic Chocolate Rum Balls
Add a touch of sophistication to your holiday gatherings with these decadent Classic Chocolate Rum Balls. A perfect combination of rich chocolate, sweet marshmallows, and the warmth of rum, these bite-sized treats are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons rum extract (or 1 tablespoon dark rum)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine oats, butter, and confectioners’ sugar. Mix until well combined.
2. Add marshmallows, cocoa powder, rum extract (or dark rum), vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until marshmallows are evenly coated.
3. Use a small cookie scoop or your hands to shape mixture into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Place balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None needed! Just chill and enjoy.
Coconut Rum Balls
Coconut Rum Balls: A Delicious Treat for Any Occasion
These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, gatherings, or just as a sweet indulgence. With the combination of shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and dark rum, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1/4 cup dark rum
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and dark rum. Mix until well combined.
2. Add the softened butter and vanilla extract to the mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Use your hands or a small cookie scoop to shape the dough into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the coconut.
5. Just before serving, dust with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
Cooking Time: None! These Coconut Rum Balls are best served chilled.
Espresso Rum Balls
Take a break from the daily grind with these rich and indulgent Espresso Rum Balls, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. With the bold flavors of espresso and rum, these bite-sized treats are sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder
– 1 tablespoon dark rum
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar, butter, espresso powder, and rum until smooth.
3. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll into balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
White Chocolate Rum Balls
Add a touch of sophistication to your holiday gatherings with these creamy white chocolate rum balls. Made with crushed cookies, sweetened condensed milk, and the warmth of dark rum, these bite-sized treats are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup crushed vanilla wafers or biscotti
– 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 2 tablespoons dark rum (optional)
– Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the white chocolate chips and crushed cookies.
2. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk until well combined.
3. If using rum, stir it in at this point.
4. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Use your hands or a small cookie scoop to shape the mixture into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
6. Roll each ball in powdered sugar to coat.
7. Serve chilled, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None needed! These treats are ready when you are.
Peanut Butter Rum Balls
Peanut Butter Rum Balls Recipe
Summary:
These creamy and indulgent treats combine the richness of peanut butter with the warmth of rum, perfect for a special occasion or as a unique gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons dark rum (optional)
– 1 cup powdered sugar, for rolling
– Chopped peanuts or chopped pecans, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine peanut butter, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Mix until smooth.
2. Add the softened butter and mix until well combined.
3. If using rum, stir it in at this point.
4. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow it to firm up.
5. Scoop the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Roll each ball between your hands to shape.
6. Roll the peanut butter balls in powdered sugar to coat.
7. Place the coated balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
9. Garnish with chopped peanuts or pecans, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Oreo Rum Balls
These bite-sized treats combine the classic flavors of Oreo cookies and rum to create a unique and delicious dessert perfect for special occasions or holiday parties.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of Oreos, crushed
– 1/2 cup of confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons of dark rum
– 1 tablespoon of milk
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the crushed Oreos and confectioners’ sugar.
2. Add the softened butter to the Oreo mixture and stir until well combined.
3. Stir in the dark rum, milk, and pinch of salt.
4. Use your hands or a spoon to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the Oreo Rum Balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as these are no-bake treats!
Gingerbread Rum Balls
These chewy treats combine the spices of gingerbread with the warmth of rum, perfect for a cozy night in or a holiday gathering. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create these deliciously aromatic bites.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup gingersnap crumbs
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons rum extract (or to taste)
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine gingersnap crumbs and powdered sugar.
2. Add the softened butter and mix until crumbly.
3. Stir in the rum extract and ground ginger.
4. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the rum balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until firm.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: None! These bite-sized treats are ready to enjoy straight from the fridge.
Pecan Rum Balls
These bite-sized treats combine the richness of pecans with the warmth of rum, perfect for a holiday gathering or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 cup light brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons dark rum (such as Myers’s)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add chopped pecans and mix until well combined.
4. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
5. Stir in dark rum.
6. Roll dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
7. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly browned.
9. Allow to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Almond Joy Rum Balls
Elevate your holiday gatherings with these indulgent treats that combine the classic flavors of Almond Joy bars with a hint of rum. Perfect for gift-giving or serving at parties, these bite-sized balls are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
– 1 tablespoon dark rum (optional)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine powdered sugar, coconut, and pecans.
2. Add almond extract and mix until well combined.
3. If using rum, stir in the dark rum.
4. Gradually add softened butter, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter).
6. Place on parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: None required! Simply store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 2 months.
Red Velvet Rum Balls
Add a touch of sophistication to your holiday gatherings with these rich and decadent Red Velvet Rum Balls.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red velvet cake crumbs
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons dark rum
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the red velvet cake crumbs and confectioners’ sugar.
2. Add in the softened butter and mix until well combined.
3. Stir in the dark rum and vanilla extract until the mixture forms a dough-like consistency.
4. Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the rum balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time:
– None! These rum balls are best served chilled or at room temperature.
Maple Walnut Rum Balls
Elevate your holiday party with these bite-sized treats that combine the warmth of maple, the crunch of walnuts, and the smoothness of rum. Perfect for gift-giving or snacking.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons dark rum (or substitute with a non-alcoholic liquid)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine oats, flour, granulated sugar, and brown sugar.
2. Add chopped walnuts and stir until combined.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup and softened butter until smooth.
4. Add dark rum (or substitute) to the maple syrup mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
6. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until firm.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as these treats are no-bake!
Pumpkin Spice Rum Balls
Combine the warmth of pumpkin spice with the smoothness of rum in these bite-sized treats perfect for autumn gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon pumpkin puree
– 2 tablespoons dark rum (or to taste)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together oats, flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix peanut butter and pumpkin puree until smooth. Add rum and stir to combine.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
5. Roll into balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each ball.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Coconut Rum Balls
Brighten up your day with these bite-sized treats that combine the sweetness of coconut, the tartness of lemon, and a hint of rum. Perfect for parties or as a pick-me-up snack.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1/4 cup finely chopped pecans (optional)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons dark rum
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar and coconut.
2. Add the chopped pecans (if using) and stir until well combined.
3. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and whisk in lemon juice, rum, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until a dough forms.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until firm.
Cooking Time: None! These treats are best served chilled, but you can also store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Dark Chocolate Orange Rum Balls
Elevate your holiday party with these decadent dark chocolate orange rum balls, perfect for sipping and sharing. With a hint of citrus and a kick of rum, these bite-sized treats are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1/4 cup orange liqueur (such as Grand Marnier or Cointreau)
– 1 tablespoon rum extract
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Chopped dark chocolate and orange zest for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together oats, confectioners’ sugar, cocoa powder, and salt.
2. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Add the orange liqueur, rum extract, and vanilla extract to the melted chocolate; stir to combine.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture; mix until well combined.
5. Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Cherry Almond Rum Balls
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these bite-sized treats that combine the sweetness of cherries, the nutty flavor of almonds, and a hint of rum.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon almond extract
– 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons dark rum (optional)
– 1 cup rolled oats
– Chopped almonds or pecans for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together cherries, sugar, and almond extract until well combined.
3. Add the softened butter and confectioners’ sugar; mix until smooth.
4. If using rum, stir it in at this point.
5. Gradually add the rolled oats to the mixture; mix until just combined (don’t overmix).
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each ball.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
8. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Toffee Rum Balls
Elevate your holiday gathering with these rich, buttery, and boozy treats that combine the flavors of toffee and rum. These bite-sized balls are perfect for a Christmas party or a New Year’s Eve celebration.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup light brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup crushed toffee bits
– 2 tablespoons dark rum (or substitute with bourbon or whiskey)
– 1 1/2 cups chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
3. Stir in crushed toffee bits and dark rum.
4. Roll mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Allow to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chocolate Mint Rum Balls
Elevate your holiday gatherings with these decadent treats that combine the cooling freshness of mint with the richness of chocolate and a hint of rum. These bite-sized balls are perfect for snacking or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup peppermint extract
– 2 tablespoons rum extract (or to taste)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Chopped mint leaves or crushed candy canes for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine oats, confectioners’ sugar, and butter; mix until well combined.
2. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir peppermint and rum extracts into the melted chocolate.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture; mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Chill for at least 30 minutes.
6. Garnish with chopped mint leaves or crushed candy canes.
Cooking Time: None necessary! These rum balls are best served chilled and enjoyed within a few days of making.
Caramel Rum Balls
Elevate your holiday parties with these sweet and boozy treats. Caramel Rum Balls are an easy-to-make dessert that combines the richness of caramel, the warmth of rum, and the crunch of pecans.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 cup light brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup dark rum (such as Myers’s or Gosling’s)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine pecans, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Add softened butter, heavy cream, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Stir in dark rum.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each ball.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweet and boozy world of rum balls! This collection of 18 decadent recipes will satisfy your cravings for chocolatey, nutty, fruity, and spicy treats. From classic chocolate to coconut, espresso, white chocolate, peanut butter, Oreo, gingerbread, pecan, almond joy, red velvet, maple walnut, pumpkin spice, lemon coconut, dark chocolate orange, cherry almond, toffee, chocolate mint, caramel, and more – there’s something for everyone! Each recipe is packed with rum-infused goodness, making them perfect for holiday parties, special occasions, or just because. Treat yourself and your loved ones to a sweet escape!
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
