Keto Rum Balls: The Decadent Treat To Try For Holidays

Welcome to my kitchen! We’re about to whip up something you’ll want to make every holiday season—or just when you’re craving a little bite of magic: low-carb rum balls. Yes, you can enjoy these decadent, boozy, chocolatey delights without worrying about the sugar crash or carb overload. Pull up a stool, grab a mixing bowl, and let’s get started!

Why Low-Carb Rum Balls Are the Bomb

I know what you’re thinking: “Rum balls? Isn’t that a dessert grandma makes from a dusty recipe card?” Well, sure, but we’re upgrading them into a modern, low-carb masterpiece. These are indulgent enough to satisfy your sweet tooth while sneaky enough to fit into your low-carb lifestyle. The best part? They’re so easy to make, you’ll wonder why you ever bought those sugary pre-packaged ones.

What You’ll Need: The Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s everything you need to make around 20-24 rum balls. Don’t worry if you’re missing an item or two; I’ll throw in substitutions and tips as we go.

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 cup almond flour
    This is our low-carb hero! It gives structure without adding carbs.
  • 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
    Make sure it’s high-quality; the flavor really pops in these little bites.
  • ½ cup powdered erythritol or another keto-friendly sweetener
    Go for powdered—it mixes better than granulated and doesn’t leave a gritty texture.
  • A pinch of salt
    Just trust me. Salt makes the chocolate taste richer.

Wet Ingredients

  • ¼ cup dark rum
    The star of the show! Go for a decent rum you’d actually drink. If you don’t do alcohol, swap it for rum extract mixed with water (about 1-2 teaspoons extract for the same punch).
  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
    This adds a luscious texture and helps bind everything together.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    For that warm, bakery-like undertone.

For Rolling

  • Unsweetened shredded coconut
    A classic coating! Lightly toast it for extra flavor, if you’re feeling fancy.
  • Crushed nuts
    Pecans or walnuts work best, adding a lovely crunch.
  • Cocoa powder
    For those who want extra chocolate vibes.

Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Low-Carb Rum Balls

Cooking with me is less like following a recipe and more like chatting with a friend who just so happens to know their way around desserts. So, let’s walk through this like you’re right here in the kitchen with me.

1. Set the Mood

Before you get started, throw on your favorite playlist (I’m partial to some holiday classics or lo-fi beats). Light a candle. We’re not just making dessert; we’re creating a whole vibe.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

Grab a medium-sized mixing bowl. Toss in your almond flour, cocoa powder, powdered sweetener, and that little pinch of salt. Use a whisk or fork to combine everything until it looks like the world’s most delicious hot cocoa powder.

👉 Pro Tip: If your almond flour has lumps, sift it first. Nobody wants clumps in their rum balls.

3. Add the Wet Ingredients

Pour in your rum, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Start stirring with a spoon or silicone spatula. The mixture will look crumbly at first, but don’t panic. Keep mixing, and soon it’ll come together into a sticky dough.

If the dough feels too dry, add a splash more rum (or water if you’re keeping it alcohol-free). If it’s too wet, sprinkle in a bit more almond flour. It’s all about balance here.

4. Chill the Dough

Pop the bowl in the fridge for 20-30 minutes. This step isn’t just to firm up the dough—it also lets the flavors meld together, so you get that rich, boozy depth in every bite.

While you wait, clean up the counter or sneak a sip of rum. I won’t judge.

5. Roll ‘Em Out

Now for the fun part! Grab a tablespoon-sized scoop of dough and roll it between your palms to form a ball. (Pretend you’re making a mini snowball.) Repeat until you’ve used up all the dough.

👉 Hot Tip: If the dough gets too sticky, lightly grease your hands with a tiny bit of coconut oil. It’s like magic.

6. Choose Your Coating

This is where you can get creative. Pour your chosen coatings—coconut, nuts, cocoa powder—into small bowls. Roll each ball in a coating, pressing gently to make sure it sticks. If you can’t decide, do a mix!

7. Chill Again

Place your finished rum balls on a parchment-lined tray and stick them back in the fridge for at least an hour. This sets the texture and makes them easier to eat without falling apart.

Tips for the Best Low-Carb Rum Balls Ever

  • Make Them Your Own: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a holiday twist. Feeling extra decadent? Toss in a handful of sugar-free chocolate chips.
  • Storage: Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks—or in the freezer for up to three months. They taste amazing straight from the freezer!
  • No Almond Flour? Swap it for finely ground pecans or hazelnuts. The flavor will change slightly, but it’s just as delicious.
  • Too Boozy? Cut the rum in half and replace it with heavy cream or unsweetened almond milk.

Why These Rum Balls Are a Keeper

Here’s the thing about these little bites of joy: they’re perfect for everything. Need a quick dessert for a dinner party? Done. Want something sweet that doesn’t mess with your macros? Hello, hero. Planning a holiday cookie exchange? These are guaranteed to be the star of the tray (and you don’t even have to bake!).

What Readers Say About This Recipe

“I made these for my book club, and they disappeared in seconds. Even my non-keto friends were begging for the recipe!” – Jessica M.

“These are dangerously good. I keep a stash in the freezer and pop one whenever I need a little treat.” – Mark R.

“I can’t believe how easy these are to make. And the flavor? Out of this world!” – Sarah L.

Share the Love

If you make these low-carb rum balls, I’d love to hear how they turned out! Tag me on Pinterest or Instagram with your creations. You might just inspire someone else to try their hand at these treats.

Let me know if you’ve got any questions or if you want to brainstorm other variations. After all, the best recipes come from a little experimentation and a lot of love. Happy rolling, and enjoy every bite! ❤️

Print

Low-Carb Rum Balls For Holidays

These keto-friendly low-carb rum balls are a no-bake treat packed with rich chocolate flavor and a splash of rum. Perfect for holidays, parties, or as a quick snack, they’re easy to make, completely sugar-free, and customizable with your favorite coatings.

  • Author: Jane Summerfield
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 20-24 rum balls 1x
  • Category: Dessert, Snack
  • Method: No-bake
  • Cuisine: American, Keto, Low-Carb

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup almond flour
  • 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ½ cup powdered erythritol (or other keto-friendly sweetener)
  • Pinch of salt
  • ¼ cup dark rum (or rum extract + water for a non-alcoholic version)
  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Unsweetened shredded coconut, crushed nuts, or cocoa powder (for rolling)

Instructions

  • In a mixing bowl, whisk together almond flour, cocoa powder, powdered sweetener, and salt.
  • Add rum, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until a sticky dough forms. Adjust with more almond flour if too wet or a splash of rum if too dry.
  • Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes.
  • Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and roll into balls.
  • Roll each ball in your chosen coating (coconut, nuts, or cocoa powder).
  • Place on a tray lined with parchment paper and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.

Notes

  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.
  • You can toast the shredded coconut for added flavor before rolling the balls.
  • Feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a holiday twist.

Please note: The recipe or ingredients shown in the video might vary slightly from what’s listed here. Use the video as an illustration, but for the best results, you might want to stick to the recipe provided in this article.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 rum balls
  • Calories: 75 Sugar: 0g Sodium: 5mg Fat: 6g Saturated Fat: 3g Unsaturated Fat: 2g Trans Fat: 0g Carbohydrates: 2g Fiber: 1g Protein: 1g Cholesterol: 0mg

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