I have mentioned before that my paternal Grandma was a wonderful cook. Even though she is no longer with us, her rum ball cookies continue to make an appearance every Christmas. These cookies are simple to prepare and do not require any baking. Use your food processor to grind the walnuts and vanilla wafers. If you don't have a food processor, put them in a large ziplock bag and whack away with a heavy bottom skillet or a rolling pin. (Grandma was convinced this was the key to reliving holiday stress!) Grandma would always say you had to prepare the cookies at least 3 days in advance to allow the rum to mellow. While I always observe this advice I have been known to sneak a taste early.
Grandma R’s Rum Balls
recipe courtesy of
1 ½ cups walnuts, ground
3 cups vanilla wafers, ground
1 cup confectioner’s sugar, sifted
1 ½ tablespoons cocoa
3 tablespoons light corn syrup
½ cup dark rum (or bourbon)
Combine all ingredients in a large bowl, mix well. Shape into small balls, about 1 inch diameter. Roll in confectioner’s sugar.
Make rum balls 3 days in advance to mellow before serving. Store in a covered container.
