Rosemary'S Rum Balls
Delightful rum balls with a hint of rosemary, featuring rich cocoa, crunchy walnuts, and a sweet powdered sugar coating—perfect for parties and festive gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix vanilla wafer crumbs, powdered sugar, cocoa, chopped walnuts, and Karo syrup in a bowl.
- Add rum gradually, mixing until the mixture is firm enough to form into balls.
- Shape the mixture into small balls.
- Roll the balls in powdered sugar to coat.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use finely crushed vanilla wafers to ensure a smooth texture. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, substitute the rum with orange juice or a flavored syrup. Feel free to experiment with nuts; pecans or almonds can work well in place of walnuts. You can also add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth.
Serving Suggestions
These rum balls make a delightful holiday treat or party snack. Serve them alongside a cup of coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy pairing. They can also be a great addition to a dessert platter with other sweets, such as Aunt Kate'S Applesauce Cake, for a festive touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store the rum balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate them, where they can last for up to three weeks. If they become too firm, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rosemary'S Rum Balls contains roughly 848 calories, with 3g protein, 162g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (15% of the Daily Value) and iron (12% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cookie instead of vanilla wafers?
Yes, you can substitute vanilla wafers with graham crackers or any other sweet cookie you enjoy. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness if needed, as different cookies may have varying sugar content.
How do I make these rum balls vegan?
To make vegan rum balls, you can substitute the Karo syrup with agave nectar or maple syrup. Ensure the vanilla wafers used are vegan, and replace the rum with a non-alcoholic option like flavored syrup or a fruit juice for a similar taste.
Can I freeze rum balls for later?
Yes, rum balls freeze well. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).