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Nostalgic Grandmas Rum Balls Recipe

Nostalgic Grandmas Rum Balls Recipe


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4.7 from 21 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 19 1x

Description

Grandma’s rum balls bring nostalgic holiday cheer with rich chocolate and spirited rum flavor. Homemade treats combine classic ingredients for a delightful no-bake dessert you’ll savor with each delectable bite.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (250 g) vanilla wafer cookies, finely crushed
  • 1 cup (120 g) pecans or walnuts, finely chopped
  • ¼ cup (20 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) dark or spiced rum
  • 3 tbsps (45 ml) light corn syrup or honey
  • Powdered sugar (for rolling)

Instructions

  1. Pulverization: Transform vanilla wafers into fine crumbs using a food processor or rolling pin, ensuring a uniform texture that will effectively bind the mixture.
  2. Flavor Foundation: Whisk powdered sugar and cocoa powder together, distributing dry ingredients evenly to enhance the rum ball’s rich taste profile.
  3. Textural Complexity: Blend finely chopped nuts into the crumb mixture, introducing a delightful crunch and nutty undertone to the confectionery treat.
  4. Moisture Integration: Pour rum into the dry ingredient blend, stirring methodically to create a cohesive, slightly sticky dough that holds its shape when rolled.
  5. Shaping and Coating: Form compact, uniform spheres using clean hands or a small cookie scoop, then generously roll each rum ball in powdered sugar to create a delicate, snow-white exterior that contrasts with the dark, rich interior.
  6. Maturation and Storage: Arrange coated rum balls on a parchment-lined tray, allowing them to set and develop deeper flavors in a cool environment. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate, where they can mature and maintain their robust rum-infused essence for up to two weeks.

Notes

  • Crumb Consistency Matters: Ensure vanilla wafers are finely ground for a smooth, uniform texture that helps bind ingredients perfectly.
  • Balance Rum Intensity: Adjust rum quantity to control alcohol strength, making the treat suitable for different taste preferences and age groups.
  • Chilling Technique: Refrigerate rum balls for several hours before serving to enhance flavor melding and improve overall taste complexity.
  • Coating Customization: Experiment with alternative coatings like cocoa powder, finely chopped nuts, or melted chocolate for diverse flavor and texture experiences.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1-2 hours
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks, Cocktails
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 19
  • Calories: 162
  • Sugar: 12 g
  • Sodium: 5 mg
  • Fat: 7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 23 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg