I have it on good authority that while Santa enjoys all cookies left for him on Christmas Eve, rum balls are his definitive favorite. This recipe is from one of my oldest girlfriends, who incidentally is named Noelle. She brought these to a Christmas party we hosted a few years ago, and everyone just loved them. So, she gave me the recipe and I’ve had them on my “to-bake” cookie list every year since.
They’re super easy to throw together – using only melted chocolate, crushed vanilla wafers, and rum essentially. Make sure you use good brick chocolate – not the chips. I’ve been stocking up on the “Pound Plus” bars from Trader Joe’s when I’m in the big city, and I can’t rave enough about them. Great chocolate for a great price! And, good brown rum is important too. I used Cruzan, but I think spiced rum (Captain, anyone?) might just be my favorite.
I hope everyone is ready for this evening, and Christmas Day tomorrow. I know I’ve had a hard time getting into the Christmas spirit this year, but I think I’m finally coming around. Was baking, candy making, and enjoying Christmas music all weekend long. And the boys, oh – they are so excited! We’re looking forward to a nice dinner, baths & Christmas PJ’s, then putting baby Jesus in the manger and leaving our cookies for Santa before going to bed. I’ve always felt Christmas Eve is such a magical time – full of hope and wonder. I’m so glad that I still feel that way today. I’m pretty sure that having this crew to celebrate with makes it all the more easier.
I’ll definitely be leaving a couple of these babies out for the big man himself tonight, and carrots for Rudolph of course. Merry Christmas everyone, I hope you all have a wonderful holiday!
Rum Balls
1 box vanilla wafers, crushed in a food processor
6 oz semis sweet chocolate
1/2 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
1/4 light corn syrup
2/3 cup rum
pinch of salt
2 cups pecans lightly toasted
1/2 cup confectioner sugar (for rolling)
Melt the chocolate in a double boiler over barely simmering water. In a large bowl combine brown sugar, corn syrup, bourbon and salt. Add melted chocolate, crushed vanilla wafers and half the pecans. Mix to combine.
Spread the remaining pecans in a shallow container or plate for rolling. Do the same for the confectioner sugar.
shape dough into 1 inch balls and roll into nuts or sugar. refrigerate for 24 hours before serving to blend flavors.
Will keep in the refrigerator for 2 weeks, or they can be frozen.
Source: my family friend Noelle
