Looking for more no-bake keto desserts? Try my keto no-bake cookies, keto cookie dough, or keto coconut clusters. With layers of flavor, from buttery shortbread to toasted nuts and smooth dark chocolate, my low-carb rum balls are addictive after one bite. Folding in a little rum extract really is the icing on the cake!
Why I love this recipe
A no-bake treat. With no baking required, that means less time in the kitchen and fewer dishes to wash. Diet-friendly. As opposed to classic rum balls, these rum balls are low in carbs and free of refined sugar. They’re also easy to make vegan and gluten-free with a few effortless swaps. The perfect keto Christmas treat. I grew up snacking on rum balls during the holidays, and to this day, they’re one of my favorite treats to gift my friends. Just because I’m keto doesn’t mean I have to miss out on all the fun! Safe for kids. While ‘rum’ is in the title, there isn’t actual rum in these. Rather, there’s rum extract, which has no more alcohol than one teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Ingredients needed
Shortbread cookies– Traditional rum balls use any plain cookie or biscuit in them. To keep them keto, I simply blended up my homemade keto shortbread cookies. You could also try keto peanut butter cookies or almond butter cookies. Walnuts and almonds– Any nuts can be used. Be sure to chop them VERY finely or even blend them to a very fine texture. Butter– Salted and melted. You can also use dairy free butter. Cocoa powder– Unsweetened cocoa powder or dark cocoa powder for a richer flavor. Powdered sugar– Keep it keto by using sugar free powdered sugar. Shredded coconut– Both in the rum balls and to roll them in! Rum extract– Optional, but gives these their name! If you would like to add actual rum to it, you can do so. Water– Only need if the dough isn’t sticky.
How to make keto rum balls
I’ve included step-by-step photos below to make this recipe easy to follow at home. For the full printable recipe instructions and ingredient quantities, scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of this post. Step 1- Make the shortbread base. In a high-speed blender or food processor, combine the shortbread cookies and walnuts and blend until thick crumbs remain. Step 2- Finish the batter. Transfer the mixture to a large mixing bowl. Add ½ cup of shredded coconut, along with the rest of the ingredients, and mix to combine. If the dough is too thick, add some water, one tablespoon at a time, until smooth. Step 3- Coat. Using your hands, form 12 small balls of dough. Roll each ball in the remaining coconut, then place them on a lined plate or tray. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
Arman’s recipe tips
Avoid over-blending. The batter should be smooth but still coarse. If it’s too fine, you’ll need to add extra cookie crumbs to keep its shape. Make a test ball. Roll out a small rum ball, decorate it, and give it a taste. Adjust any flavors as necessary before shaping the rest of the balls. Use a small cookie scoop. To get even-sized rum balls. Gift them! Use a glass jar or a paper box lined with parchment paper. Place the rum balls in them and store them in the refrigerator until they are ready to be given as the perfect edible gift.
Storage and make-ahead tips
To store: Rum balls can be stored at room temperature, covered, for up to 2 weeks. The balls will be soft in texture. However, if you’d like them firmer and thicker, keep them stored in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 2 months. These rum balls are delicious as is, but you can play around with the mix-ins or take them up a notch with a few extra final touches. Here are some ideas:
Add more chocolate. Fold in sugar-free chocolate chips into the dough, or dip the balls in melted chocolate and dust with cocoa powder. Citrus rum balls. Swap the water for orange juice and add orange zest from one orange. Nutty rum balls. Instead of rolling the balls in coconut, roll them in crushed pistachios or peanuts. Nut-free rum balls. Swap the nuts for sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
To freeze: Place rum balls in a ziplock bag and store them in the freezer for up to 6 months. Gifting: Use a glass jar or a paper box lined with parchment paper. Place the rum balls in them and keep them stored in the refrigerator until they are ready to be given as edible gifts.
More no-bake keto recipes to try
Keto fat bombs– Perfect for keeping the hunger pangs at bay. Keto fudge– Thick, creamy, and the ultimate guilt-free chocolate dessert. Keto fruit dip– Made with 3 ingredients and pairs well with everything. No bake caramel cookie dough bars– After one taste, let’s just say portion control goes out the window!
