My Page
My Cookbooks
  • Main Cookbook
    Premium Members can have more than one cookbook in this list. They can keep private cookbooks just for organizing their recipes, or share them publicly with friends or the world. Learn more
My Account

62 Reviews of Christmas Rum Balls(Or Bourbon Balls)

by Bergy
reviewer icon

From: Lennie

On Nov 20, 2001

Fantastic! Not only are these both fast and easy to make, but the taste is terrific. Two comments: 1) I used a one-inch scoop and my yield was 40 rum balls; and 2) I'd recommend chilling the mixture for 15-30 mins before forming balls as it makes the process easier. Bergy, I'll be making these EVERY Xmas.

27 people found this review helpful

  • Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
  • From: Lillie Boyd

    On Jun 29, 2003

    GREAT! I used the cocoa liquer instead, had to make 3 batches for everyone. Easy, Easy. Thanks for posting this.

    9 people found this review helpful

  • Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
  • reviewer icon

    From: Marg (CaymanDesigns)

    On Dec 27, 2004

    Yow-wow!!! These things are potent!! My DH's comment was, "that's like taking a shot of rum". My 17-year-old nephew walked around the room after he ate one flapping his arms and wiping his eyes. Hehehe I rolled mine in granulated sugar as that is they way I've always seen it done around here. I had to let the 'dough' sit for a bit before I could form it into balls. I think the wafers needed to absorb some of the moisture. Will cut back on the rum next time, just our personal preference. UPDATE- the longer they sit the better they are! After 5+ days sitting in a tin DH has declared them "perfect". Still potent but the flavors have blended beautifully.

    6 people found this review helpful

  • Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
  • From: Rushncook

    On Dec 12, 2007

    These were great! I made these as a last minute thought for a party- Since I didn't have time to let the rum mellow, I used Kahlua instead of rum and boy were they good! No mellowing time needed! The Kahlua was not too strong and the flavor mixed so well with the cocoa....I'm thinking to try Irish cream next. Thanks Bergy!

    5 people found this review helpful

  • Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
  • From: Linda6

    On Dec 21, 2001

    I just finished a double batch and they are wonderful. I'm sure after they set a couple days they will be even better. The refridgeration for 30 min. made forming the balls much easier. I used brandy, only because that is what I prefer. This recipe was fast, easy, and I definitely plan on making them again. I will be putting them out for X-mas before dinner.

    4 people found this review helpful

  • Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
  • From: Princessmitzoue

    On Dec 18, 2002

    Great recipie! During the first batch, everyone said the liquour was too strong (I used burbon instead of rum- so this may be the problem) Not to worry- next batch, I cut the burbon in 1/2, doubled the syrup & sugar, and they turned out great! Thanks for the great idea

    4 people found this review helpful

  • Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
  • From: Jack King

    On May 6, 2005

    We made Rum Balls just like this in Germany for many years. Typically stale cake or sweet breads are used instead of the wafers. I used stale German Stolen (a kind of fruit bread) and substituted almonds for the nuts. This recipe is superb and can take on so many variations according to which "wafer" you use. Thank you for posting it for us.

    4 people found this review helpful

  • Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
  • reviewer icon

    From: Morti

    On Dec 7, 2006

    Great recipe! A little too strong for me, but I'll just adjust the alcohol next time. I even used splenda rather than icing sugar and they came out good.

    4 people found this review helpful

  • Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
  • From: paula&matt

    On Jul 14, 2002

    I made one substitute for the rum I used cocoa liquer....yum!

    4 people found this review helpful

  • Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
  • reviewer icon

    From: Nadia NYC

    On Jan 15, 2005

    This did not work for me at first. I found it too potent and barely edible. I used good quality bourbon (Knob Creek) and thought perhaps b/c of its alcohol content-- aged 9yrs, 100 proof, it might have been too much for this recipe. I brought it to work and consulted our pastry chef and he said to keep it in an airtight container and let it sit for a week or more. I tested it a week later and I could not believe they were the same bourbon balls! The alcohol was not overpowering...it was actually nice and decadent. Unfortunately, it was too late to add them to my dessert platter for my ny's eve party as planned. But, I had them all to myself! So, don't be discouraged if it doesn't work out for you. This is definitely worth the wait.

    3 people found this review helpful

  • Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
  • Learn about the benefits of Premium Membership

    Take a Tour

    Sister Sites: Food Network | HGTV | HGTVPro | DIY | Fine Living | Great American Country | FrontDoor.com Real Estate | Ecologue

    Comparison Shop for Kitchen Appliances & Utensils at Shopzilla & BizRate

    © 2009 Scripps Networks, Inc. All rights reserved