White Christmas Rum Balls

These White Christmas Rum Balls have been a cherished holiday dessert in my family. With their delicate sweetness, warm rum flavor, and festive appearance, they’re always a hit at gatherings. Best of all, they require no baking and are incredibly simple to make.

I remember the first time I made these for a holiday party. They disappeared within minutes, and since then, they’ve become a must-have treat every December.

Ingredients

• Crushed vanilla wafers or tea biscuits: Forms the base of the mixture with a slightly sweet and buttery flavor.
• Shredded coconut: Adds texture and a tropical sweetness.
• Finely chopped pecans or walnuts: Bring nutty richness and some crunch.
• Powdered sugar: Balances the sweetness without being overpowering.
• White rum: Infuses these treats with warmth. Choose a good-quality rum for the best flavor.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness with depth. Opt for pure vanilla for the richest taste.
• Sweetened condensed milk: Acts as a binder while adding creamy sweetness. Adjust the amount to reach the perfect consistency.
• Extra shredded coconut: For added texture and decoration.
• Powdered sugar: Optional for a wintery snowy look.

Optional Add-Ins

• Dried cranberries: Chopped for a burst of tartness.
• White chocolate chips: For increased sweetness.
• Almond extract: For a nutty aroma.
• Orange zest: To add a citrusy brightness.

How To Make White Christmas Rum Balls

Prepare the Dry Ingredients:

Combine the crushed vanilla wafers, shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and powdered sugar in a large mixing bowl. Stir thoroughly to ensure even distribution of all ingredients.

Add the Wet Ingredients:

Pour in the sweetened condensed milk, white rum, and vanilla extract. Stir meticulously until a cohesive, thick dough forms. If the dough feels dry, incorporate an additional tablespoon of condensed milk for smooth consistency.

Let the Mixture Rest:

Allow the mixture to sit for ten minutes. This step is vital as it lets the crushed biscuits absorb the moisture, creating a smooth and palatable texture.

Roll into Balls:

Scoop small portions using a spoon or cookie scoop and roll into one-inch balls. The size ensures a perfect ratio of texture and flavor in every bite.

Coat the Rum Balls:

Gently roll each rum ball in shredded coconut until fully coated. For a festive snowy look, consider rolling a few in powdered sugar.

Chill and Serve:

Refrigerate the rum balls for at least one hour. This chilling step allows the flavors to meld together seamlessly while giving the balls a firmer texture.

My favorite part about these rum balls is the coconut coating. It reminds me of the first snowy winter I experienced after moving to a new country, making the treat nostalgic and dear to my heart.

Storage Tips

Store the rum balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They remain fresh and flavorful for up to two weeks. If making ahead for gifts or gatherings, keep them cool to ensure the flavors stay vibrant.

Ingredient Substitutions

Try swapping walnuts for almonds if preferred or using bourbon instead of rum for a different flavor profile. Similarly, if you’re avoiding alcohol, replace rum with orange or almond juice for a non-alcoholic version. Vegan alternatives like coconut condensed milk work wonderfully here too.

Serving Suggestions

White Christmas Rum Balls are delightful served alongside a tray of holiday cookies or festive drinks like eggnog or mulled wine. They make excellent edible gifts packaged in tins with parchment paper.

These easy-to-make rum balls are sure to bring cheer to your holiday table. Their irresistible taste and thoughtful presentation make them a treat your guests will rave about long after the celebrations are over.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of rum works best for these treats?

White or light rum is ideal for its delicate flavor, but you can experiment with spiced or flavored rum for a unique twist.

→ Can I make these without alcohol?

Yes, substitute the rum with orange or almond extract and a bit of juice to maintain the flavor and texture.

→ How do I store these treats?

Store the rum balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or freeze them for up to 2 months.

→ What can I use instead of vanilla wafers?

You can use tea biscuits, graham crackers, or any similar plain cookies for the base.

→ Can I adjust the sweetness?

Yes, reduce the powdered sugar or opt for unsweetened shredded coconut to balance the sweetness.