This rum balls recipe is one of our most popular and makes a lovely edible gift. As well as being richly flavoured with dark rum, cocoa and coconut, they’re so easy to make, with just 20 minutes of prep time. With one recipe swap you can make these chocolate rum balls kid-friendly too.
Ingredients
Method
Rum balls recipe
Process biscuits until fine crumbs.
Transfer crumbs to a large bowl; add condensed milk, coconut, sifted cocoa, rind and rum. Stir well to combine.
Roll mixture into walnut-sized balls. Toss balls in extra coconut. Place on a tray; cover, refrigerate until firm.
Suitable to freeze. Not suitable to microwave.
Test Kitchen tip

Editor’s tip
This is one of our most popular Christmas recipes. Some readers make three batches every festive season! Bundle some into little bags or boxes as gifts, or have a container full in the fridge for when guests pop over.
Sarah McInerney, Digital Managing Editor
How to make this rum ball recipe (video)
Can this rum ball recipe be made in advance?
The balls can be made up to 1 month ahead; keep refrigerated.
Do you have to use alcohol in this recipe?
For an alcohol-free, kid-friendly version, you can use bottled orange juice.
Do you have to use rum in rum balls?
You can swap rum for Baileys or Grand Marnier if you prefer.
How do you toast coconut?
To toast coconut, place in large frying pan; stir occasionally over medium heat until golden. Cool.