Rum Balls

Rum Balls are a classic no bake treat that combines cake crumbs with cocoa and a splash of spirit. They are perfect for using up leftover chocolate cake or sponge. These sweet bites are very popular during the festive season. You can easily adjust the amount of rum to suit your taste.
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Photo of the finished dish for the recipe Rum Balls

Why you should cook rum balls

These Rum Balls are incredibly easy to make because they require no baking at all. You only need a few simple ingredients to create a rich and decadent snack. They keep well in the fridge and actually taste better after the flavours have had time to develop. This is a great recipe for making ahead of time when you have guests.

How to prepare rum balls

Step 1
Prepare the cake: Crumble the chocolate cake into fine pieces using your hands or a food processor. Place the crumbs into a large mixing bowl and ensure there are no large lumps left.
Step 2
Mix the base: Add the apricot jam and cocoa powder to the cake crumbs. Pour in the dark rum and stir everything together with a wooden spoon until a thick dough forms.
Step 3
Shape the balls: Scoop out a small amount of the mixture and roll it between your palms to form a small ball. Repeat this process until all the mixture is used and place them on a baking tray.
Step 4
Coat and chill: Roll each of the Rum Balls in a bowl of chocolate sprinkles until they are completely covered. Place the finished treats in the fridge for at least thirty minutes to firm up before serving.

My best tips for rum balls

If the mixture feels too dry to roll, you can add a little extra jam or a tiny splash of water to help it stick together. For those who prefer a different texture, try using crushed biscuits instead of cake crumbs. You can also swap the chocolate sprinkles for desiccated coconut or finely chopped nuts to change the finish. Make sure to use a good quality dark rum for the best flavour in your Rum Balls.

If you are serving these to children, you can replace the alcohol with orange juice or a little extra jam. Always store them in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh and moist.

Find more ideas here: caesar dressing, peppers stuffed with tuna or pork chops with sage.

Ingredients

servings
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  • 400 g chocolate cake crumbs
  • 100 g apricot jam
  • 50 g cocoa powder
  • 60 ml dark rum
  • 100 g chocolate sprinkles

Cooking time

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Nutrition information

NUTRITIONper serving
  • Energy:854 kJ / 204 kcal
  • Fat:8 g
  • - of which saturates:4 g
  • Carbohydrates:30 g
  • - of which sugars:22 g
  • Protein:2 g
  • Fibre:2 g
  • Salt:150 mg

People also ask

You can store Rum Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. The flavour often improves after a few days as the rum infuses into the cake crumbs.
Yes, Rum Balls freeze very well for up to three months. Simply place them in a freezer safe bag or container and thaw them in the fridge before serving.
Rum Balls usually takes about 5 minutes to make. The time can vary slightly with the quantity and method. Check the texture towards the end.
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