Walnut Rum Balls

Prep: 15 min Serves: 42 Cuisine: American

Walnut Rum Balls are rich, bite-sized treats with a delightful combination of vanilla wafers, nuts, cocoa, and rum, perfect for festive occasions or as indulgent desserts.

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Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 cups finely crushed vanilla wafers
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 cup finely chopped nuts
  • 1/4 cup rum or bourbon
  • 2 tablespoons cocoa
  • 3 tablespoons corn syrup

Instructions

  1. Mix crushed vanilla wafers, powdered sugar, chopped nuts, cocoa, and corn syrup in a bowl.
  2. Add rum and mix thoroughly until well combined.
  3. Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls.
  4. Roll each ball in powdered sugar to coat.
  5. Serve and enjoy.

Tips & Substitutions

For a festive twist, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, substitute the rum with additional corn syrup or a splash of vanilla extract. You can also use different nuts like pecans or almonds depending on your preference. These walnut rum balls can also be enhanced with a drizzle of chocolate on top for extra decadence.

Serving Suggestions

These walnut rum balls are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat alongside coffee or tea. They pair beautifully with a dessert like Fruity Pudding Salad for a festive spread. For an added touch, serve them with a side of fresh fruit or a scoop of ice cream to balance the rich flavors.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover walnut rum balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. They can also be frozen for longer storage; just make sure to layer them between parchment paper to prevent sticking. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the refrigerator and serve cold or at room temperature.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Walnut Rum Balls contains roughly 101 calories, with 1g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.

101 kcal 5% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.5g 1% DV
Total Fat 1.5g 2% DV
Carbs 21.9g 8% DV
Fiber 0.4g 1% DV
Sugar 18.6g 37% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 22.7mg 1% DV
Potassium 33.8mg 1% DV
Cholesterol 2.9mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.5mcg
Calcium 4.3mg
Iron 0.3mg 1% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat

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 other types of nuts in this recipe?

Absolutely! While walnuts are traditional, feel free to experiment with pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts. Each type of nut will bring a unique flavor and texture to your rum balls, allowing you to customize them to your taste preferences.

How long do these rum balls need to set?

It's best to let the rum balls chill in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours after rolling them. This allows the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up, making them easier to handle and enhancing their taste.

Can I make these rum balls vegan?

Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegan by using a vegan alternative for the corn syrup, such as maple syrup or agave nectar. Ensure that your vanilla wafers are also vegan-friendly, and you'll have a delicious treat that everyone can enjoy.

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).

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