Make these Rumkugeln, classic German rum balls, in no time! These tasty truffles effortlessly blend the rich flavors of chocolate and rum, and are a bite-sized piece of holiday heaven. Perfect at Christmas or any time of year.
Rumkugeln, translated as "rum balls" in German, are delightful bite-sized treats that perfectly balance the rich flavors of chocolate and dark rum.
These indulgent delights are typically made by combining a mixture of melted milk and dark chocolate with room temperature butter, powdered icing sugar, and a generous splash of dark rum.
The resulting mixture is chilled, rolled into small balls, and then coated with chocolate sprinkles for an added layer of texture.
Rumkugeln are versatile, making them a popular choice for various occasions, but they hold a special place during the holiday season, often featured in Christmas celebrations and gatherings.
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator or a cool place, these treats can stay fresh for up to three weeks.
These rum balls always remind me of my older sister who makes them every year. They're always part of her Christmas baking and everyone loves them. One bite and they immediately make me think of her!
I love that they're super easy to make, and I can keep a big batch in the pantry for a few weeks, bringing them out for holiday guests.
So, whether you're a chocolate enthusiast, a rum connoisseur, or simply someone with a sweet tooth, Rumkugeln are sure to captivate your taste buds with their rich, boozy, and utterly indulgent profile.
If you love bite-sized chocolate truffles, then be sure to also try Romkugler Danish Rum Balls and Marzipan Chocolates!
Jump to:
What are Rumkugeln Rum Balls?
Rumkugeln, translating to "rum balls" in German, are small chocolate treats blending milk and dark chocolate with butter, powdered sugar, and a splash of dark rum.
This sweet treat has a history as rich as its ingredients. Originating in Germany, these delightful treats have been a staple in holiday celebrations and cozy gatherings for generations.
With roots dating back to the 19th century, rumkugeln has evolved into a beloved dessert, cherished for its simplicity, versatility, and the joy it brings to every chocolate and rum enthusiast's palate.
Today, it stands as a testament to the timeless appeal of a treat that effortlessly combines indulgence with tradition.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Rumkugeln is the dessert equivalent of a shortcut to happiness. With a handful of readily available ingredients and a straightforward process, you can have these delightful treats ready in no time.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you're hosting a party or a cozy gathering, rumkugeln is a surefire way to win hearts. The combination of chocolate and rum is a classic that appeals to a wide range of taste buds.
- Make-Ahead Magic: Need a dessert you can prepare in advance? Rumkugeln is your answer. Whip up a batch, pop them in the fridge, and you're set for spontaneous dessert cravings or unexpected guests.
- Versatile Presentation: Roll them in chocolate sprinkles for a festive touch, or go for cocoa powder or chopped nuts for a more rustic feel. Rumkugeln can be customized to suit any occasion or personal preference.
Ingredients
- Milk Chocolate & Dark Chocolate: The dynamic duo that forms the chocolatey base. Choose good quality chocolate for a richer flavor. You can opt for all dark chocolate if you prefer a more intense cocoa profile.
- Unsalted Butter: Adds a creamy texture to the rumkugeln. Make sure it's at room temperature for easy incorporation.
- Powdered Icing Sugar: Sweetens the deal and contributes to the smooth, melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
- Dark Rum: The star of the show. Choose a quality dark rum to infuse the balls with a warm, boozy flavor. For a non-alcoholic version, you can use rum extract or skip this ingredient altogether.
- Chocolate Sprinkles, Cocoa Powder, or Nuts: The final touch that adds texture and visual appeal. Choose based on your preference or mix and match for a diverse platter.
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.
Chop the chocolate.
Melt it together either using a double boiler on the stovetop, stirring until smooth, or microwave it in short intervals, stirring between each interval until fully melted. Once the chocolate has melted, let it cool to room temperature.
Add the room temperature butter to a medium mixing bowl and sift in the powdered icing sugar.
Beat until light and fluffy.
Beat in the melted chocolate and rum.
Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour.
TIp: If the chocolate mixture is not firm enough to roll after chilling, beat in a little more powdered sugar and chill again.
Pour the sprinkles (or cocoa powder) into a shallow dish.
Roll the rumkugeln mixture into small bite-sized balls (using a teaspoon or melon baller).
Roll into balls, then roll in the sprinkles (or cocoa powder).
Place onto a plate. Repeat until all of the rum ball mixture is used up.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator or in a cool place for up to 3 weeks. For the best flavor, let them come up to room temperature before serving.
Variations
- White Chocolate Dream: Replace the dark chocolate with white chocolate for a sweeter, creamier version.
- Nutty Delight: Mix finely chopped hazelnuts or almonds into the rumkugeln mixture for a delightful crunch.
- Fruity Fusion: Add a burst of fruitiness by incorporating dried fruit bits like raisins or cranberries.
Storage
Store: To keep your rumkugeln fresh and flavorful, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator or a cool place. They'll stay delicious for up to 3 weeks. Pro tip: For the best flavor and texture, let them come up to room temperature before serving.
Top tip
- Temperature Check: Ensure your butter is at room temperature. This makes it easier to achieve a smooth and fluffy consistency when beating it with the powdered sugar.
- Chill Effect: If the chocolate mixture isn't firm enough after chilling, don't panic. Beat in a bit more powdered sugar before giving it another round in the refrigerator.
- Size Matters: Keep your rumkugeln bite-sized. Smaller portions ensure a perfect balance of chocolate and rum in every mouthful.
- Get Rolling: When rolling the mixture into balls, slightly dampen your hands to prevent sticking. It's a small trick that makes the process a breeze.
FAQ
While it's possible, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. It's best to enjoy them fresh or refrigerated.
No worries! You can substitute with rum extract or choose a non-alcoholic alternative like apple juice or coffee.
Christmas Recipes From Around The World
- Romkugler Danish Rum Balls
- Icelandic Pepper Cookies - Piparkokur
- Icelandic Christmas Cookies
- German Bethmännchen Marzipan Cookies
- Pignoli Cookies - Italian Pine Nut Cookies
- Figgy Pudding
Sign up for our free newsletter and never miss a recipe!
Plus, you'll get a free eBook: 15 Minute Vegan Dinners!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 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
Rumkugeln - German Rum Balls
Equipment
- mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 6 oz. milk chocolate 170g
- 6 oz. dark chocolate 170g
- ½ cup unsalted butter at room temperature, 115g
- 1 cup powdered icing sugar 120g
- 4 tablespoons dark rum
- ½ cup chocolate sprinkles jimmies, or cocoa powder or finely chopped nuts - for rolling
Instructions
- Chop the chocolate then melt it together either using a double boiler on the stovetop, stirring until smooth, or microwave it in short intervals, stirring between each interval until fully melted. Once the chocolate has melted, let it cool to room temperature.
- Add the room temperature butter to a medium mixing bowl and sift in the powdered icing sugar. Beat until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the melted chocolate and rum.
- Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour.
- Tip: If the chocolate mixture is not firm enough to roll after chilling, beat in a little more powdered sugar and chill again.
- Pour the sprinkles (or cocoa powder) into a shallow dish.
- Roll the rumkugeln mixture into small bite-sized balls (using a teaspoon or melon baller). Roll into balls, then roll in the sprinkles (or cocoa powder).
- Place onto a plate. Repeat until all of the rum ball mixture is used up.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator or in a cool place for up to 3 weeks. For the best flavor, let them come up to room temperature before serving.
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.
Sisley
These were so fun to make and have been brilliant Christmas presents so far.
Nikki
Whoa! Everyone loved the chocolate and the dark rum. Yum! THanks so much for the recipe, will make again for sure!
Nathan
This recipe was downright dangerous, haha. The rum added such a nice balance to all of the chocolate (although you can never have too much chocolate), and these were super rich but so addicting! I used Kracken Rum - so good.
Vicky
These German Rumkugeln were easier to make than I would have imagined. Loved the combination of rich chocolate, sprinkles, and a hint of rum!
Lauren
These Rum Balls are going right on my must-make holiday cookie list for the grown ups! My husband and I love rum-flavored treats so I know these are going to be a new favorite!