Fudge rum balls

 Fudge rum balls are a decadent and delightful dessert that combines the rich fudginess of brownies with the boozy kick of rum. They're perfect for parties, potlucks, or whenever you crave a sweet and flavorful treat. Here's a recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

• For the Fudge Base:
  • 1 (18-ounce package) Duncan Hines Moist Deluxe Butter Recipe Fudge Cake Mix
  • 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (or a combination)
  • 1 tablespoon rum (or more to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon rum extract (or more to taste, optional)
• For the Coating (Optional):
  • Powdered sugar
  • Chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or a mix)
  • Melted chocolate (optional)
  • Coconut flakes (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on the fudge cake mix package (usually around 350°F or 175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

2. Prepare Cake Mix: Prepare the fudge cake mix according to the package instructions. This usually involves mixing the cake mix with water, eggs, and oil (ingredients will vary depending on the specific brand).

3. Add Nuts and Rum: Fold in the chopped nuts and your desired amount of rum (and rum extract, if using) into the prepared cake batter. Mix well until evenly distributed.

4. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the greased baking pan and bake the cake for the time specified on the package instructions. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with moist crumbs (not completely clean) when the cake is done.

5. Cool the Cake Completely: Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before starting to form the rum balls. This is important for the mixture to set properly.

6. Crumble the Cake: Once cool, crumble the cake into a large bowl using your hands or a fork. You want a mixture of fine crumbs and small chunks for a good texture in the rum balls.

7. Shape the Rum Balls: Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion out the crumbled cake mixture and roll them into balls. You can moisten your hands slightly to prevent sticking if needed.

8. Coating the Rum Balls (Optional): Here are some options for coating your rum balls:

   • Powdered Sugar: Roll the rum balls in powdered sugar for a simple and elegant look.
   • Chopped Nuts: Roll the rum balls in chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
   • Melted Chocolate: Melt some chocolate (dark, semi-sweet, or milk chocolate) using a double boiler or in the microwave using short bursts with stirring. Once melted and smooth, dip the rum balls into the chocolate to coat them completely. Let the excess chocolate drip off, then place them back on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet.
   • Coconut Flakes: Roll the rum balls in coconut flakes for a tropical twist.
   • You can even get creative and combine different coatings, like rolling in chopped nuts then drizzling with melted chocolate.

9. Refrigerate and Store: Place the rum balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm. This allows the rum flavor to meld and the balls to set properly.

Tips:

• Use high-quality rum for the best flavor, but adjust the amount based on your preference for rum intensity.
• If the mixture feels too dry and difficult to form into balls, add a tablespoon or two more of rum (or milk) one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a desired consistency.
• Ensure the cake is completely cool before crumbling it for easier handling and better rum ball formation.
• Store leftover rum balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Enjoy these delicious and boozy Fudge Rum Balls! Remember to consume responsibly and be mindful of anyone who might be avoiding alcohol.