Best Baked Rum Balls Recipe

If you’re searching for a treat that’s festive, indulgent, and unbelievably delicious, these
Baked Rum Balls are exactly what you need. This classic dessert combines
rich chocolate, warm spices, and a bold splash of
dark rum to create the ultimate bite-sized treat. Whether you’re preparing
them for the holidays, serving them at parties, or gifting them to friends, these rum balls
never fail to impress. Their soft, fudgy texture and irresistible aroma make them a
top-tier dessert that stands out on any dessert table.

Ingredients & Their Roles

• 1 1/2 cups crushed vanilla wafers – These create the base structure and give each ball its signature texture.
• 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts – Adds crunch, nutty depth, and enhances richness.
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – Provides deep chocolate flavor and balances sweetness.
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar – Sweetens the rum balls and helps bind ingredients smoothly.
• 1/4 cup dark rum – The star ingredient that infuses each ball with warm, bold, aromatic flavor.
• 3 tbsp melted butter – Adds moisture and richness, helping the mixture stick together.
• 2 tbsp honey or corn syrup – Helps bind the mixture and adds glossy sweetness.
• Extra powdered sugar or cocoa – For rolling and finishing the rum balls beautifully.

How to Make Baked Rum Balls

1. Prepare the base: In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed vanilla wafers, chopped nuts, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
2. Add the wet ingredients: Pour in the melted butter, honey, and dark rum. Stir until the mixture becomes thick, sticky, and moldable.
3. Shape the balls: Scoop about 1 tablespoon per ball and roll between your palms to form smooth, round shapes.
4. Bake the rum balls: Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the rum balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 8 minutes. This step deepens the flavor and helps the rum caramelize slightly.
5. Coat the rum balls: Let them cool slightly, then roll each ball in powdered sugar or cocoa for a perfect finish.
6. Chill before serving: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors intensify.

Why This Recipe Is Loved

These Baked Rum Balls deliver the perfect combination of soft, fudgy texture and bold holiday flavor. They’re incredibly easy to prepare, require no special equipment, and look beautifully elegant once finished. Better yet, they taste even better the next day as the flavors meld, making them an ideal make-ahead dessert.

Pro Tips for Perfect Rum Balls

• Use high-quality rum for the richest flavor.
• Crush the wafers finely to ensure smooth, cohesive texture.
• Let them rest overnight for maximum flavor development.
• Roll them twice in powdered sugar for a snowy, festive look.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your rum balls with a hot cup of **coffee**, a cozy **hot chocolate**, or a festive **glass of eggnog**. They pair beautifully with Christmas cookie platters, dessert boards, or gift boxes wrapped for friends and family.

Conclusion

These Baked Rum Balls are incredibly simple to make, unbelievably delicious, and guaranteed to become a tradition in your home. With rich chocolate flavor, a hint of rum warmth, and a melt-in-your-mouth texture, this recipe delivers everything you love about a holiday treat—and more. Try them once, and they’ll be your go-to dessert every season.