Margarita Balls: No-Bake Rum-Infused Lime Cocktail Treats Recipe
Margarita Balls are a delightful no-bake treat that captures the refreshing flavors of a classic margarita cocktail in a bite-sized dessert. Made with creamy cream cheese, tangy lime juice, tequila, and a touch of orange liqueur, these festive balls are coated in a zesty sugar and lime zest mixture for a perfect balance of sweet and citrus flavors. Ideal for holiday parties or gatherings, they require minimal ingredients and effort while delivering an indulgent and fun flavor experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 24 balls 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons tequila
- 2 tablespoons orange liqueur (such as Triple Sec)
- 3 cups vanilla wafer crumbs
Coating
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- Lime zest (for coating)
Instructions
- Prepare the mixture: In a medium-sized bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, lime juice, powdered sugar, tequila, and orange liqueur until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. This forms the creamy base that carries the margarita flavors.
- Add vanilla wafer crumbs: Stir in the vanilla wafer crumbs gently until the mixture comes together in a sticky dough. These crumbs add texture and structure to the balls.
- Form the balls: Roll the mixture into small, approximately 1-inch diameter balls with your hands. This uniform sizing ensures even chilling and serving portions.
- Coat the balls: Roll each ball in a mixture of white sugar and fresh lime zest to coat all sides evenly, enhancing sweetness and adding bright citrus aroma.
- Chill: Place the coated balls in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, or until they are firm enough to hold their shape and serve.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve these margarita balls chilled for a refreshing and indulgent cocktail-inspired dessert perfect for parties or gifting.
Notes
- For a stronger tequila flavor, you can add an extra tablespoon of tequila or orange liqueur, but be cautious to maintain the right consistency.
- If you prefer, substitute the vanilla wafer crumbs with crushed graham crackers or digestive biscuits for a different flavor profile.
- These balls can be made ahead of time and stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a festive touch, optionally sprinkle coarse sea salt on the balls after coating instead of sugar to mimic a salted margarita rim.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing and smooth texture.