Mediterranean Rum Balls
These Mediterranean Rum Balls are a fun no-bake treat inspired by the warm flavors of the region. Instead of the usual plain cookie crumbs and cocoa, these use crushed tea biscuits, walnuts, honey, dates and a hint of citrus. The rum adds depth, while orange zest, cardamom and a touch of tahini give them a Mediterranean twist. They take only a few minutes to mix and roll, and taste even better after chilling. Serve them during the holidays, at gatherings or whenever you want something sweet without turning on the oven.
Prep: 20 minutes
Chill: 1–2 hours
Total: 1 hour 20 minutes to 2 hours 20 minutes
Ingredients
2 cups finely crushed tea biscuits or digestive biscuits
1 cup finely chopped walnuts
½ cup soft, pitted dates (mashed or processed)
¼ cup honey
3 tablespoons tahini
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
¼ cup rum
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Zest of 1 orange
½ teaspoon cardamom
Pinch of salt
For coating: shredded coconut, finely chopped pistachios or extra cocoa powder
Instructions
Add crushed biscuits to a large mixing bowl.
Stir in the walnuts, cocoa powder, cardamom and salt.
Add the mashed dates and mix to distribute them evenly.
Pour in the honey and tahini.
Add the rum and vanilla.
Add the orange zest.
Use a spoon or your hands to work the mixture until it becomes thick and sticky.
If the mixture feels dry, add a splash more rum or a teaspoon of honey. If it is too wet, add more crushed biscuits.
Scoop out small portions and roll into smooth balls.
Coat each ball in coconut, pistachios or cocoa. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.
Tips
Crush the biscuits as fine as possible so the balls hold together well.
If your dates are firm, soak them in warm water for 5 minutes first.
Use a food processor if you want a smoother texture.
Toast the walnuts lightly for extra flavor.
Add rum slowly so the mixture does not become runny.
If making for kids, swap rum for orange juice.
Use honey that is runny, not thick, for easier mixing.
Roll the mixture with slightly damp hands to prevent sticking.
Chill the mixture for 10 minutes if it softens too much while rolling.
Store the balls in an airtight container to keep them from drying out.
Variations
Chocolate-Espresso: Add 1 teaspoon instant espresso for a deeper flavor.
Coconut-Tahini: Replace some biscuits with coconut flakes and increase tahini.
Almond-Orange: Use almonds instead of walnuts and add a drop of orange blossom water.
Pistachio Delight: Coat the balls fully in crushed pistachios.
Fig & Honey: Replace dates with mashed dried figs and keep the honey stronger.
Spiced Holiday: Add cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves for a seasonal version.
Chocolate-Dipped: Dip the chilled balls in melted dark chocolate.
No-Rum Version: Replace rum with pomegranate juice or orange juice.
Berry Twist: Add finely chopped dried cranberries.
Sesame Crunch: Roll the balls in toasted sesame seeds.
Q&A
Can I make these without alcohol?
Yes. Replace rum with orange juice, apple juice or coffee.
Can I use another nut?
Almonds, hazelnuts or pistachios all work.
Do they freeze well?
They freeze nicely for up to two months.
How long do they keep in the fridge?
About one week in an airtight container.
Can I use cocoa-coated biscuits?
Yes, but reduce the added cocoa slightly.
What if my mixture is too soft?
Add more biscuit crumbs until firm enough to roll.
What if it’s too dry?
Add a splash of rum, honey or water.
Can I skip the tahini?
Yes. Replace it with almond butter or peanut butter.
Can I make them sweeter?
Add an extra tablespoon of honey or use sweeter biscuits.
Can I use chocolate wafers instead of tea biscuits?
Yes, but reduce added sugar or honey a little.
Nutrition
(per ball, approx., based on 24 balls)
Calories: ~95
Fat: ~5 g
Carbs: ~12 g
Protein: ~1.5 g
Fiber: ~1 g
Sugar: ~7 g
Conclusion
Mediterranean Rum Balls are simple, rich and full of warm flavors. The combination of biscuits, walnuts, dates, honey and tahini makes them soft and satisfying. The rum adds depth, and the orange zest keeps them bright. You don’t need a mixer or an oven, and the recipe is easy to adjust based on what’s in your pantry. Whether you want a holiday dessert, a quick sweet treat or something you can make ahead, these little bites are reliable and always welcome at gatherings. They hold well in the fridge, freeze beautifully and taste even better the next day. Once you try them, they’ll become one of those no-bake desserts you return to again and again.