Romkugluer are traditional Danish Rum Balls made of leftover cake, jam and rum, then rolled in coconut. The rich and indulgent truffles are hugely popular in Denmark and you can make them at home yourself in no time.
Romkugler is a delightful treat that turns leftovers into something extraordinary. With its simplicity, versatility, and global variations, it's no wonder these Danish rum balls have become a favorite worldwide.
Originally created by Danish bakers as a way to use up leftover cake, these truffles quickly became hugely popular.
The beauty of Romkugler lies in its adaptability. Use any leftover cake or pastries, experiment with different jams, or even swap the rum for a non-alcoholic alternative of rum essence.
If you love Christmas treats from around the world, be sure to try Icelandic Piparkokur, German Bethmännchen, or Figgy Pudding.
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Differences in Rum Balls Around the World
Romkugler isn't the only player in the rum ball game.
While Danish Rum Balls boast a unique blend of cake and fruity jam, German Rum Balls often feature nuts and are rolled in sugar or cocoa.
American Rum Balls, on the other hand, frequently include crushed cookies and are coated in powdered sugar or cocoa.
Each variety offers a distinct take on this globally loved treat.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- No Cake Left Behind: Got leftover cake that's past its prime? Romkugler is the ultimate solution. Transform dry cake crumbs into a moist and flavorful delight.
- Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and a food processor, you can whip up a batch of these delightful treats in no time.
- Versatility: The beauty of Romkugler lies in its adaptability. Use any leftover cake, experiment with different jams, or even swap the rum for a non-alcoholic alternative.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you're hosting a gathering or just craving a sweet indulgence, Romkugler is a surefire way to impress your guests or treat yourself.
Ingredients
- Leftover Cake: Any type works - try pound cake, vanilla cake, chocolate cake etc... For this batch I used chocolate muffins.
- Jam: Adds a burst of fruity sweetness to complement the cake. Raspberry is the most traditional, but you can use strawberry, apricot etc...
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Intensifies the chocolatey goodness.
- Rum: For that distinctive flavor. If you want non-alcoholic, swap to rum essence.
- Coconut Flakes: The finishing touch that adds a delightful texture.
See the recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
Follow this step-by-step photo tutorial, then scroll down to the recipe card for the full ingredients list and method.
Add the cake to a food processor and pulse until it forms crumbs.
Add the jam, cocoa powder and rum and process until it forms a thick, smooth dough.
Place the coconut into a shallow dish.
Use a teaspoon or melon baller, and make the romkugler mixture into small bite-sized balls. Roll into balls, then roll in the coconut.
Set onto a cookie sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up a little.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Variations
- Nutty Twist: Roll your Romkugler in crushed nuts for an extra crunch.
- Citrus Zest: Add a pop of freshness by incorporating citrus zest into the mixture. Orange works well.
- Spice It Up: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, comforting flavor.
- White Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate your Romkugler by drizzling melted white chocolate over the coconut-coated balls.
Storage
Store: Keep your Romkugler fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Their compact size makes them easy to grab whenever a sweet craving strikes.
Top tips
- Pulse, Don't Blend: Use short pulses in the food processor to maintain a desirable texture for your Romkugler.
- Chill Before Rolling: Refrigerate the mixture before rolling to make the process smoother and avoid sticky fingers.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different cake flavors, jams, or even flavored rum for a unique twist.
- Size Matters: Keep your Romkugler bite-sized for the perfect, poppable treat.
Edible Christmas Gifts
We love making a big batch of romkugler to give as an edible Christmas gift. Be sure to also try these other tasty edible gifts:
Marzipan Chocolates
Bethmaennchen
Snow Globe Cookies
Pecan Brittle
Salted Chocolate Honeycomb
Mini Dark Chocolate Tarts
FAQ
Yes! Most cake works, but I find that richer flavors like chocolate or coffee enhance the overall taste.
While they can be frozen, the texture may change slightly. It's best to consume them within two weeks for optimal freshness.
Other Famous Danish Desserts
- Æbleskiver: These spherical, fluffy pancakes are often enjoyed during the Christmas season, filled with apple slices or jam.
- Koldskål: A chilled buttermilk soup, typically served with kammerjunkere (small, crisp cookies) during the summer.
Are Romkugler for Christmas or All Year Round?
While Romkugler's cozy, comforting flavors make them a popular choice during the Christmas season, there's no need to limit yourself.
These versatile treats are perfect for any time of the year, whether you're craving a sweet pick-me-up or need a quick dessert for a gathering.
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⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you love this recipe, please leave a five-star rating and review in the comments below! And if you make any modifications, let us know how it went so that we can all benefit from your experience. Happy cooking!
📖 Recipe
Romkugler (Danish Rum Balls)
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- food processor
Ingredients
- 17.5 ounces leftover cake 500g I used leftover chocolate muffins
- 3 tablespoons raspberry jam or other flavor such as strawberry
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons rum or 1-2 teaspoons of rum essence
- coconut flakes for rolling
Instructions
- Add the cake to a food processor and pulse until it forms crumbs.
- Add the jam, cocoa powder and rum and process until it forms a thick, smooth dough.
- Place the coconut into a shallow dish.
- Use a teaspoon or melon baller, and make the romkugler mixture into small bite-sized balls. Roll into balls, then roll in the coconut.
- Set onto a cookie sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up a little.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
- Pulse, Don't Blend: Use short pulses in the food processor to maintain a desirable texture for your Romkugler.
- Chill Before Rolling: Refrigerate the mixture before rolling to make the process smoother and avoid sticky fingers.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different cake flavors, jams, or even flavored rum for a unique twist.
- Size Matters: Keep your Romkugler bite-sized for the perfect, poppable treat.
Nutrition
The nutritional information provided is approximate and can vary depending on several factors, so is not guaranteed to be accurate. Please see a registered dietician for special diet advice.
Dorene
Leftover cake?? What is that?? Not in my house...I have teenage boys! I'm lucky they don't eat the whole refrigerator!! LOL
TAYLER ROSS
I was looking for something new to add to our cookie trays this year, and these rum balls were perfect! Thanks so much for sharing the recipe - two guests asked for the recipe link
Chessa
I LOVE rum balls! I hadn't had them in so long so I ended up making this Danish verison, as well as the German kind. Everyone loved both!
Casey
I was looking for a recipe for stale cake (made too much pound cake for a party!) and found this recipe on pinterest. Worked so well!
Kim
These were so delicious! I loved every bite and my only regret is that I didn't make more!
Mahy
I could eat a ton of these, that's for sure. Definitely the recipe to make over these holidays. Yum!
Stephanie
These Danish rum balls are so delicious. A great way to use up leftover cake as I feel guilty when I discard cake tops. Love the hints of rum in these treats.