Rum Ball Recipes

Rum Balls are bite-sized, no-bake truffles with chocolate and rum, popular at Christmas. Global variations add twists like condensed milk, wafers, cookies, or coconut. Here, we've compiled lots of exciting rum ball recipes!

Picture of rum ball recipes - making them on a table.

Rum balls are the unsung heroes of the dessert world.

They're easy to make, adaptable to various tastes, and have a rich history that spans the globe.

So, whether you're looking to impress at a holiday gathering or just want a quick fix for your sweet tooth, rum balls are your go-to indulgence.

But what makes a rum ball? There are so many global varieties, that what you might consider to be a rum ball could be rather different to what I know them to be!

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Rum Balls Around The World
Coating Ideas
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Rum Balls Around The World

Rum balls, those delectable orbs of boozy delight, have traversed the globe, each region infusing its unique twist into this beloved treat. Let's embark on a flavorful journey across continents:

Australia: Lamington Balls Down under, they've jazzed up the classic recipe, introducing Lamington Balls. These babies roll in desiccated coconut, imparting a tropical kick that perfectly complements the boozy core.
Germany: Rumkugeln In the land of precision and indulgence, Germany brings us Rumkugeln. Filled with two types of chocolate mixed in a butter base, these German delights are topped off with jimmies (chocolate sprinkles) for that touch of elegance.
Jamaica: Jamaican Rum Balls It's no surprise that Jamaica, the home of rum, boasts its own version of these bites. With a hearty dose of local rum, a whipping cream based filling, and a coating of coconut or chocolate, Jamaican Rum Balls capture the essence of the Caribbean in every bite.
USA: Bourbon Balls Stateside, they've put their own spin on the classic. Enter Bourbon Balls, where the rum takes a backseat to the rich flavor of bourbon. Often incorporating pecans, maple syrup and coated in powdered sugar, these Southern treats are a hit at any American gathering.
Denmark: Romkugler In Denmark, they've embraced rum balls year-round, dubbing them Romkugler. These Danish treats maintain a simple elegance, with leftover cake and jam combined with a coating of coconut, cocoa or powdered sugar.
USA: American Nilla Wafer Versions Across the United States, some opt for a variation using Nilla Wafers instead of the traditional biscuit crumbs. This American twist adds a hint of vanilla to the mix, creating a nostalgic flavor that's impossible to resist. Oreos or Biscoff cookies are also a popular addition.
Hungary: Kókuszgolyó Hungary joins the rum ball party with Kókuszgolyó. Similar in preparation but uniquely Hungarian, these balls are often rolled in sugar and have the addition of ground walnut, raisins, or even whole cherries, making each bite a delightful adventure.

Coating Ideas

So, you've got your base ready. Now, it's time to dress it up. The beauty of rum balls lies in their versatility, especially when it comes to coatings.

Cocoa Powder: The classic choice. A dusting of cocoa powder gives your rum balls an elegant, slightly bitter edge.
Jimmies: Also called chocolate strands or chocolate sprinkles, they add a great crisp texture to your rum ball recipe.
Chopped Nuts: Roll your balls in a medley of chopped nuts – almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts – for that satisfying crunch.
Shredded Coconut: Take a trip to the tropics by coating your balls in shredded coconut. It adds a delightful chewiness.
Powdered Sugar: Keep it simple with a sprinkle of powdered sugar. It's like a snowy blanket for your boozy bites.
Sprinkles: Feeling whimsical? Roll your rum balls in colorful sprinkles for a festive touch.

Rum balls are bite-sized, no-bake wonders that pack a punch. They're made with crushed biscuits or cookie crumbs, cocoa powder, sweetened condensed milk, and, you guessed it, a generous splash of rum. The result? A potent, flavorful treat that's as easy to make as it is to devour. Try these tasty rum ball recipes!