nana's rum balls

Name: Nana's Rum Balls
Prep time: 30 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box(es) Nabisco vanilla wafers (11 oz); 1 cup(s) powdered sugar; 3 tablespoon(s) cocoa powder; 4 tablespoon(s) white Karo syrup; 1 cup(s) pecans (you can also use walnuts); 1/2 cup(s) spiced rum (I use Captain Morgans); ## FOR COATING; 1/2 cup(s) powdered sugar for rolling them in; 1/2 cup(s) cocoa powder (optional); melted chocolate for dipping (optional)

(8 RATINGS)

1.02K Pinches 9 Photos

Deneece Gursky

Miami, FL

Updated on Nov 12, 2025

I know there are plenty of recipes for rum balls on here, but my recipe box just wouldn't be right if I didn't add Nana's. They are the most requested treat from the adults during the holidays. Lol, I wonder why...

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A platter of Nana's Rum Balls coated in powdered sugar and chocolate.

Blue Ribbon Recipe

These bite-sized rum balls are delish! You taste the flavor of the rum in every bite. They're boozy, chocolaty, smooth, and rich. We coated the rum balls in powdered sugar and melted chocolate. Both were tasty. These are perfect for an adult holiday gathering or a hostess gift. Since the alcohol does not cook out, make sure to keep kids away from these.

— The Test Kitchen

prep time 30 Min

cook time

method No-Cook or Other

yield 8-10 serving(s)

Ingredients

1 box Nabisco vanilla wafers (11 oz)
1 cup powdered sugar
3 tablespoons cocoa powder
4 tablespoons white Karo syrup
1 cup pecans (you can also use walnuts)
1/2 cup spiced rum (I use Captain Morgans)
FOR COATING
1/2 cup powdered sugar for rolling them in
1/2 cup cocoa powder (optional)
melted chocolate for dipping (optional)

How To Make nana's rum balls

Step 1

Crush vanilla wafers in a food processor.

Step 2

Add crushed nuts. Then add the remaining ingredients (except powdered sugar for rolling). Mix well.
Step 3

Form into 1-inch balls and roll in powdered sugar to completely coat.
Step 4

You can also roll them in cocoa or dip them in melted chocolate.
Step 5

Store in an airtight container. The longer they sit the stronger they become.
Last Step: Don't forget to share! Post a picture of your finished recipe here and on your favorite social network. Don't forget to tag Just A Pinch and include #justapinchrecipes!

Nutrition Facts

(per serving*)

calories: 402kcal, carbohydrates: 58g, cholesterol: 0mg, fat: 17g, fiber: 4g, protein: 4g, saturated fat: 4g, sodium: 165mg, sugar: 36g, unsaturated fat: 13g

*Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Nutrition information is estimated.

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