Rum Balls

A Christmas cookie plate is even better when it includes a few homemade candies, and this recipe for rum balls from the Southern Living archives is one you'll turn to year after year. Originally from our December 1993 issue, this boozy confection was created by reader Lela H. Coggins from Brevard, N.C.

These tender, pecan-filled treats are for adults only. Made with dark rum and bourbon, they pack a powerful punch! Unlike many rum or bourbon ball recipes, Ms. Coggins uses honey instead of corn syrup, which gives these rum balls a more complex flavor and keeps them from being overly sweet. The variety of honey you use will alter the flavor of the rum balls slightly. Orange blossom honey will add citrus notes, clover honey will add a floral flavor, and a darker honey, like wildflower or buckwheat honey, will add a subtle bitter note that will contrast nicely with the sweet cookies.

The recipe couldn't be easier to make if you use a food processor to finely chop up the vanilla wafers and pecans. You want them to be very finely ground for the smoothest texture. Once you stir in the honey, bourbon, and rum, you'll have a sticky mixture to shape into 1-inch balls. Roll the formed balls in an extra layer of granulated sugar or vanilla wafer crumbs for a prettier presentation. You can serve the rum balls on a cookie plate or by themselves on a platter. For gift giving, package them in small boxes with paper candy liners.

The History of Rum Balls

Rum balls were originally created as a way for Danish bakers to make use of cakes and pastries leftover at the end of the day. They would mix them up with cocoa and rum, and roll the dough into balls, coating with coconut or chocolate sprinkles to sell for a low price the next day.

Today, these truffle-like confections are popular throughout the world, and made in a variety of flavors. They're particularly popular for the holiday season.

Do Rum Balls Contain Alcohol?

Yes, these rum balls contain two types of alcohol: bourbon and rum. The recipe makes six dozen rum balls, using 2/3 cup of alcohol, so it may not be enough for a serious buzz, but it is still present.

If you'd prefer to make these rum balls with less alcohol, you can substitute a portion (or all) of the alcohol with orange or apple juice for a fruity touch, or try using water with a splash of rum extract or vanilla extract for a more mild flavor.

Ingredients for Rum Balls

The ingredient list for rum balls is short, which in one reason it is such a hit during the busy holiday season:

• Vanilla wafers: A mild cookie perfect that grinds up easily in the food processor. Can be substituted with graham crackers, shortbread, or butter cookies if needed.
• Pecan pieces: For a nutty crunch throughout the rum balls. Can be substituted with other types of nuts, including walnuts or almonds.
• Honey: Adds a complex, fruity sweetness. Can substitute with other liquid sweeteners, including agave, maple syrup, or corn syrup, if needed, but you may need to cut back on the quantity for those with a thinner consistency.
• Bourbon and dark rum: Can substitute with a flavored rum, or preferred alcohol.
• Sugar or vanilla wafer crumbs: For coating the rum balls.

How To Make Rum Balls

These rum balls come together in minutes with the help of a food processor. The batch makes six dozen, so call in some help when it comes time to roll, and you'll be ready to serve a crowd in no time.

To make these rum balls:

• Step 1. Process vanilla wafers to fine crumbs.
• Step 2. Process pecans until finely chopped.
• Step 3. Mix to combine wafer crumbs and pecans with honey, bourbon, and rum.
• Step 4. Shape into balls, then roll in sugar or additional wafer crumbs.

What Else Can I Use to Coat Rum Balls?

The best part of making such a large batch is that you can coat the rum balls in different finishes, making it look like you spent all day making a variety of treats. Take a look in the pantry, and get creative with:

• Ground nuts
• Desiccated coconut
• Melted chocolate (white, milk, or dark)
• Holiday sprinkles (particularly nonpareils)
• Cocoa powder
• Confectioners' sugar

If rolling in cocoa or confectioners' sugar, sift a bit more over the tops just before you're ready to serve for the freshest finish.

How Long Do Rum Balls Last?

Rum balls can be made well in advance of your holiday party, and the flavors will continue to develop over time. Refrigerate coated rum balls in an airtight container for up to one month, or freeze for up to three months. If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator at least two hours before serving.

More Bourbon and Rum Ball Recipes You'll Love

• Kentucky Bourbon Balls
• Bourbon Balls
• Fudgy Pecan Bourbon Balls
• Pecan Bourbon Balls

Editorial contributions by Katie Rosenhouse.