Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These no-bake treats are quick to assemble, bursting with citrus flavor, and perfect for entertaining. They are refreshing, portable, and require minimal ingredients.
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Margarita Balls: Bright, Zesty, and Perfectly Bite-Sized
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 24 balls
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Margarita Balls are zesty no-bake dessert bites infused with lime flavor and a hint of tequila, coated in powdered sugar for a sweet and tangy treat inspired by the classic cocktail.
Ingredients
- 2 cups vanilla wafer crumbs
- 1 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for coating)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans (optional)
- 2 tbsp lime zest
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 2 tbsp tequila
- 2 tbsp triple sec or orange juice
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine vanilla wafer crumbs, powdered sugar, and chopped pecans.
- Stir in lime zest.
- In a small bowl, mix lime juice, tequila, triple sec, and corn syrup.
- Pour liquid mixture into dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
- Roll mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Roll each ball in powdered sugar to coat.
- Place on a tray and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- Adjust tequila amount to taste.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- For a non-alcoholic version, replace tequila with extra lime juice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Vanilla wafer crumbs form the base structure of the dessert balls.
Sweetened condensed milk binds the mixture and provides sweetness.
Fresh lime zest delivers vibrant citrus aroma and flavor.
Fresh lime juice adds brightness and slight tang.
Powdered sugar enhances sweetness and smooth texture.
Unsalted butter adds richness and helps create a soft consistency.
Tequila can be added for authentic margarita flavor, if desired.
Shredded coconut is used for coating and adds texture.
Salt enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
Green food coloring is optional for visual appeal.
Directions
In a large bowl, combine vanilla wafer crumbs and powdered sugar. Stir to distribute evenly.
Add softened butter, sweetened condensed milk, lime zest, and lime juice. If using tequila, incorporate it gradually. Mix thoroughly until a cohesive dough forms.
If the mixture feels too soft, refrigerate briefly to firm up. Once manageable, scoop and roll into small, even balls.
Roll each ball in shredded coconut to coat evenly. Arrange on a tray and refrigerate until firm.
Serve chilled for best texture and flavor.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 20 to 24 balls. Preparation takes 15 minutes, with at least 1 hour of chilling time.
Storage/reheating
Store Margarita Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Serve chilled.
Variations and Customizations
Margarita Balls are easily adaptable. I tested this recipe with crushed graham crackers instead of vanilla wafers, which produced a slightly deeper flavor. For a stronger citrus profile, increase the lime zest while maintaining balanced sweetness.
If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, omit tequila entirely and add a small amount of additional lime juice or zest. For a decorative touch, roll the balls in finely crushed pistachios instead of coconut.
These simple adjustments allow you to customize the flavor intensity while preserving the bright, refreshing character of the dessert.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
| Nutrient | Per Ball |
|---|---|
| Calories | 130 kcal |
| Protein | 1 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 14 g |
| Sodium | 45 mg |
Expert Tips & Customizations
Use Fresh Lime
Fresh zest and juice provide the best flavor.
Chill Before Rolling
If sticky, refrigerate the mixture briefly.
Balance Tartness
Adjust lime gradually to avoid overpowering acidity.
Serve Cold
Chilling improves texture and flavor definition.
FAQs
Do these contain alcohol?
Tequila is optional and can be omitted.
Can I freeze Margarita Balls?
Yes, freeze in an airtight container and thaw in the refrigerator.
Are they very sweet?
They are moderately sweet with bright citrus balance.
Can I use bottled lime juice?
Fresh juice provides superior flavor.
Why is my mixture too soft?
Additional chilling will firm it up.
Are these suitable for parties?
Yes, they are ideal make-ahead party treats.
Conclusion
Margarita Balls offer a playful, citrus-forward dessert that is simple to prepare and beautifully refreshing. With their bright lime flavor and soft texture, they provide a festive, bite-sized treat perfect for celebrations and gatherings alike.
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