Rum Or Bourbon Balls

Rich, boozy, and nutty, these bite-sized treats are the perfect indulgence for adults only! Made with cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a splash of rum or bourbon, these decadent balls are rolled in crunchy pecans for a delightful contrast of textures.

Ready Time

30 mins

Yields

10 servings

Ingredients

1 cup chopped pecans
1 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup light corn syrup
1/4 cup rum or bourbon (or a combination of the two)
1 tablespoon light brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 ounces cream cheese, softened

Instructions

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, light brown sugar, and salt until well combined. Set aside.

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.

Gradually add the powdered sugar mixture to the cream cheese, beating until well combined. Add the light corn syrup, rum or bourbon (or a combination of the two), and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture.

Beat until smooth.

Stir in the chopped pecans until they are evenly coated with the cream cheese mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Once chilled, use a small cookie scoop or your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.

You should end up with around 10 balls. Place the balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or a plate.

Refrigerate the balls for at least 30 minutes to set.

Store the Rum or Bourbon Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Notes

Make sure to toast the pecans in a 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant, to bring out their flavor before chopping them. If you don’t have an electric mixer, you can also beat the cream cheese with a fork until smooth.

Use a high-quality rum or bourbon for the best flavor.

If the mixture is too sticky, refrigerate it for a few minutes to firm it up before shaping into balls. You can also roll the balls in powdered sugar or chopped pecans for a different look.

These Rum or Bourbon Balls make a great gift – just package them in an airtight container and tie with a ribbon.

Chill the balls for at least an hour if you want them to be firmer and easier to handle.