Whether you're alcohol-free or catering for a younger crowd, you'll love this super easy recipe for Rum Balls without rum! You only need 4 simple ingredients.

Rum balls no rum? Sounds crazy, but it's totally possible!

Whether you've embraced an alcohol-free lifestyle or find yourself catering to a younger crowd, the joy of these chocolate delights is still very much on the menu – with this super easy recipe for Rum Balls without rum!

There are many reasons to avoid the rum in these truffles. But don't worry - they still taste incredible!

They're super simple to make, and are rich and decadent. Little balls of holiday bliss.

Okay, so with no rum it's a bit odd to describe them as rum balls. But they are classic rum balls, but without alcohol or rum extract.

They're perfect for those of you who prefer a sober treat, for kids to enjoy, or if you just ran out of rum. These bite-sized wonders promise to be a hit at any gathering.

These are German style classic rum balls (minus the rum), so there are no cookies, no wafers and no condensed milk, like in American style ones. The results are smooth, decadent, and rich.

I first made this recipe during a weekend baking spree for a party, when I realized I was fresh out of rum for my usual rum ball recipe. Determined to satisfy my sweet tooth, I decided to just go ahead anyway and the result was these Rum Balls No Rum!

The batch of irresistible chocolate truffles disappeared faster than I could say, "Who needs rum anyway?" Since then, it's become my go-to treat for any occasion – or no occasion at all.

Now, I make them all the time for parties, because I don't have to warn the host to let people know that there is booze in them. It's just easier and safer!

Jump to:

Does Rum Essence have alcohol in it?
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients
How to make Rum Balls without Rum
Variations
Storage
More Chocolate Recipes
Recipe Tips
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Does Rum Essence have alcohol in it?

Some rum essence or rum extract, contain alcohol. The extraction process typically involves using alcohol to capture the flavor compounds from the rum. Although the quantity of alcohol in the final extract is relatively small, it's essential to be aware of its presence, especially if you are avoiding alcohol for any reason.

For those looking for a completely alcohol-free alternative, there are imitation rum extracts available that are formulated without any alcohol content. Always check product labels and ingredient lists to make an informed choice based on your preferences and dietary requirements.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

No-Rum Delight: Perfect for teetotalers or those who want a break from the traditional rum-infused treats, these balls are a delightful alternative.
Simple Indulgence: With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is a breeze to whip up, making it perfect for impromptu sweet cravings or last-minute gatherings.
Chocolate Galore: If you're a certified chocoholic, this recipe is your dream come true. With semisweet chocolate chips as the star, each bite is a celebration of cocoa goodness.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you're hosting a party or contributing to a potluck, these Rum Balls Without Rum are guaranteed to steal the show. Who can resist the allure of chocolatey bliss?
Kid Friendly: With no rum, kids can safely sample these tasty truffles.

Ingredients

You only need simple pantry ingredients for this recipe!

Semisweet Chocolate Chips: The hero of this recipe, these chips bring a deep, rich chocolate flavor. Feel free to use dark chocolate chips if you prefer a more intense cocoa taste.
Unsalted Butter: Room temperature butter adds a velvety texture to the truffles, ensuring a smooth and creamy consistency. If you only have salted butter, adjust the amount of additional powdered sugar to balance the sweetness.
Powdered Icing Sugar: Sweetening the deal, powdered icing sugar not only adds sweetness but also contributes to the truffle's smooth texture. If you're out of this, regular granulated sugar can be pulsed in a food processor until fine as a substitute.
Chocolate Sprinkles: The final touch! Feel free to swap to finely chopped nuts or cocoa powder.

See the recipe card for quantities and method.

How to make Rum Balls without Rum

Follow these step-by-step instructions, then scroll down for the full ingredients list and method.

Melt the chocolate. You can either use a double boiler on the stovetop, stirring until smooth, or microwave the chocolate in short intervals, stirring between each interval until fully melted. Allow the melted chocolate to cool to room temperature.

Sifting the powdered sugar, and beating it with the butter.

In a medium mixing bowl, add the room temperature butter and sift in the powdered icing sugar. Beat the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy.

Beat in the cooled melted chocolate until well combined.

Cover the bowl and chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least an hour. If the chocolate mixture is not firm enough to roll after chilling, beat in a little more powdered sugar and chill again.

Spooning out spoonfuls of rum ball mixture, and rolling them in chocolate sprinkles.

Pour the chocolate sprinkles into a shallow dish.

Using a teaspoon, roll the chocolate mixture into small bite-sized balls. Roll each ball in the sprinkles until fully coated.

Repeat the process until all of the chocolate mixture is used up.

Store the rum balls without rum in an airtight container in the refrigerator or in a cool place for up to 3 weeks. For the best flavor, allow them to come up to room temperature before serving. Enjoy!

Scroll down for the full ingredients list and method.

Variations

Orange Zest Zing: Add a zesty twist by incorporating orange zest into the chocolate mixture. The citrusy kick complements the rich chocolate flavor beautifully.
Coffee Infusion: For the coffee lovers, dissolve a tablespoon of instant coffee in the melted chocolate. The subtle hint of coffee takes these truffles to a whole new level.
Minty Freshness: Infuse a drop or two of peppermint extract into the chocolate mixture for a refreshing minty flavor. Top with crushed candy canes for a festive touch.
White Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate the visual appeal by drizzling melted white chocolate over the coated truffles. It not only adds a contrasting color but also a delightful flavor combination.

Storage

Store your Rum Balls No Rum in an airtight container in the refrigerator or a cool place for up to 3 weeks. To experience the full flavor, allow them to come up to room temperature before serving. However, good luck resisting their allure for that long!

Close up of a bowl of rum balls without rum.

More Chocolate Recipes

Recipe Tips

Temperature Matters: Ensure the melted chocolate has cooled to room temperature before incorporating it into the butter and sugar mixture. This prevents the butter from melting and ensures a smooth, creamy consistency.
Chill for Success: Don't rush the chilling process. Allowing the chocolate mixture to firm up in the refrigerator for at least an hour ensures easier rolling and shaping of the truffles.
Coating Techniques: When rolling the truffles, keep your hands slightly damp to prevent the chocolate mixture from sticking. This makes the coating process much smoother.

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