Spiced Rum Balls

Highlighted under: Homemade Sweets Recipes

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Spiced Rum Balls, a festive treat perfect for any celebration.

Anna Johnson

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2025-12-03T20:27:27.455Z

Spiced Rum Balls are a classic holiday treat that brings warmth and cheer. With a rich blend of spices and the unmistakable flavor of rum, these no-bake delights are sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Rich, spiced flavor with a kick of rum
  • No-bake recipe makes it quick and easy
  • Perfect for gifting during the holidays

The Sweet and Spicy Connection

Spiced Rum Balls are not just a treat; they are a harmonious blend of flavors that evoke warmth and nostalgia. The combination of rich cocoa, sweet vanilla wafers, and a kick of dark rum captures the essence of holiday gatherings. Each bite is a delightful experience, offering a perfect balance between sweetness and spice. The addition of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves infuses these balls with a comforting aroma, making them an irresistible indulgence during the festive season.

This recipe is a wonderful way to use up any leftover nuts from your holiday baking, allowing you to create something delicious without the hassle of baking. These rum balls are versatile and can be customized according to your taste preferences. If you prefer a stronger spice flavor, feel free to adjust the amounts of cinnamon or nutmeg. The possibilities are endless, and creating your own version can be a fun holiday project!

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you are hosting a holiday party or looking for a thoughtful gift, Spiced Rum Balls are an excellent choice. Their festive appearance and rich flavor make them a hit at any celebration. Place these delectable treats in a decorative tin or jar, and you have a perfect homemade gift that will be cherished by friends and family alike. The no-bake aspect of this recipe means you can whip up a batch in no time, leaving you more time to enjoy the festivities.

These rum balls are also a great addition to cookie platters, providing a delightful contrast to traditional cookies and pastries. Their unique flavor profile adds depth to any dessert table, making them a standout treat. Plus, they are easy to transport, so you can share them with loved ones or take them to potlucks and gatherings without worry.

Storage Tips and Variations

Storing Spiced Rum Balls is simple. Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they can last up to two weeks. The flavors actually improve over time as the spices meld together, making them even more delicious after a couple of days. If you want to enjoy them longer, consider freezing the rum balls. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn, and they can last for up to three months.

For a delightful twist, try experimenting with different types of rum or even flavored liqueurs. Coconut rum, spiced rum, or even chocolate liqueur can add unique layers of flavor to your rum balls. Additionally, consider rolling them in crushed nuts, coconut flakes, or even cocoa powder for a different presentation. Personalizing your Spiced Rum Balls can make them even more special, offering a unique treat for every occasion.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your Spiced Rum Balls:

Ingredients

  • 2 cups crushed vanilla wafers
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 cup finely chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
  • 1/2 cup cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup dark rum
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • Additional powdered sugar for rolling

Once you have all your ingredients ready, it's time to start making these delicious treats!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Spiced Rum Balls:

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed vanilla wafers, powdered sugar, chopped nuts, cocoa powder, dark rum, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Form the Balls

Using your hands, take small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.

Coat with Sugar

Roll each ball in additional powdered sugar until well coated. Place the finished balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the rum balls for at least 1 hour to set. Enjoy them chilled or at room temperature!

Enjoy your homemade Spiced Rum Balls at your next gathering or gift them to friends and family!

Serving Suggestions

When serving Spiced Rum Balls, consider pairing them with a warm beverage such as spiced cider, coffee, or hot chocolate. The warmth of these drinks complements the chilled rum balls perfectly, creating a cozy atmosphere. You can also serve them alongside other holiday treats, offering guests a variety of flavors and textures to enjoy.

For an elegant touch, place the rum balls on a decorative platter or cake stand, garnished with fresh mint leaves or holiday-themed decorations. This not only enhances their visual appeal but also sets the mood for a festive gathering.

Nutritional Information

While Spiced Rum Balls are a delightful indulgence, it’s essential to enjoy them in moderation. Each ball contains a rich combination of sugars, fats, and alcohol, making them a treat best reserved for special occasions. However, the inclusion of nuts provides some nutritional benefits, such as healthy fats and protein, which can help balance out the sweetness.

If you're looking to make a lighter version, consider reducing the amount of powdered sugar or substituting some of the ingredients with healthier alternatives. For instance, you can use almond flour instead of crushed vanilla wafers for a gluten-free option or replace some of the sugar with a natural sweetener.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use light rum instead of dark rum?

Yes, light rum can be used, but dark rum gives a richer flavor.

→ How long can I store these rum balls?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

→ Are these rum balls suitable for children?

Due to the alcohol content, it's best to keep these treats away from children.

→ Can I make these rum balls vegan?

Yes, you can substitute the rum with a non-alcoholic rum flavoring and use vegan wafers.

Spiced Rum Balls

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Spiced Rum Balls, a festive treat perfect for any celebration.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration0 minutes
Overall Time20 minutes

Created by: Anna Johnson

Recipe Type: Homemade Sweets Recipes

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 24 balls

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 2 cups crushed vanilla wafers
  2. 1 cup powdered sugar
  3. 1 cup finely chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
  4. 1/2 cup cocoa powder
  5. 1/2 cup dark rum
  6. 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  7. 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  8. 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  9. Additional powdered sugar for rolling

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed vanilla wafers, powdered sugar, chopped nuts, cocoa powder, dark rum, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Step 02

Using your hands, take small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.

Step 03

Roll each ball in additional powdered sugar until well coated. Place the finished balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 04

Refrigerate the rum balls for at least 1 hour to set. Enjoy them chilled or at room temperature!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Total Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 24g
  • Protein: 6g