Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups vanilla wafer crumbs
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup dark rum
- 2 tablespoons orange zest
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- Additional powdered sugar for rolling
Special equipment needed:
- Food processor or blender
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a food processor or blender, pulse vanilla wafers until they become fine crumbs.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine vanilla wafer crumbs, powdered sugar, and chopped pecans.
4. Add orange juice, dark rum, orange zest, and melted butter to the mixing bowl. Mix until well combined.
5. Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, form mixture into 1-inch balls and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned.
7. Let cool for a few minutes before rolling in additional powdered sugar.
8. Serve and enjoy!
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 10-12 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 350°F
Serving size:
- Makes approximately 24 balls
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 120 per ball
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 1g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Vanilla wafers can be substituted with graham crackers or shortbread cookies.
- Pecans can be substituted with walnuts or almonds.
- Orange juice can be substituted with orange liqueur.
Variations:
- Add 1/4 cup of chocolate chips to the mixture for a chocolate-orange flavor.
- Roll the balls in coconut flakes instead of powdered sugar for a tropical twist.
- Substitute the rum with bourbon or whiskey for a different flavor profile.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to finely chop the pecans to ensure they mix well with the other ingredients.
- If the mixture is too dry, add a little more orange juice or rum.
- If the mixture is too wet, add a little more powdered sugar.
- Store the balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Storage instructions:
- Store the balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Reheating instructions:
- These balls are best served at room temperature, but can be reheated in the microwave for a few seconds if desired.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the balls on a platter with orange slices and fresh mint leaves for a pop of color.
Garnishes:
- Garnish with additional orange zest or chopped pecans.
Pairings:
- Serve with a glass of dark rum or a cup of hot tea.
Suggested side dishes:
- These balls are a sweet treat and can be served as a dessert or snack on their own.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the balls are too dry, add a little more orange juice or rum.
- If the balls are too wet, add a little more powdered sugar.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and any utensils used in the preparation of the recipe to prevent the spread of bacteria.
Food history:
- Rum balls are a popular treat during the holiday season and originated in Europe.
Flavor profiles:
- These balls have a sweet and nutty flavor with a hint of orange and rum.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a dessert or snack.
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Taste: Sweet, Tangy, Citrusy, Rum, Rum-Flavored