Kahlua Chocolate Balls

These Kahlua Balls are a rich and indulgent treat perfect for celebrations or anytime you want something sweet with a little coffee kick. Creamy, smooth, and coated in chocolate, they combine classic shortbread cookies with the bold flavor of Kahlua liqueur for a delightful bite-sized dessert that always impresses.

I made these for a holiday party once, and they disappeared faster than I expected. Now I keep the ingredients on hand for last-minute guests or cozy nights in.

Ingredients

• Shortbread cookies: Lorna Doone brand is best for the perfect buttery crunch and texture
• Powdered sugar: adds sweetness and a smooth finish to the crumb mixture
• Cream cheese: softened to room temperature ensures the filling is creamy and smooth
• Kahlua coffee-flavored liqueur: brings that iconic coffee and vanilla spirit flavor& pick a quality brand for best taste
• Finely ground instant espresso powder: is optional but heightens the coffee notes for a richer flavor
• Milk chocolate almond bark: melts easily and melts smoothly to coat the balls with a glossy finish
• White chocolate almond bark: used for a decorative drizzle adds contrast and extra sweetness

Instructions

Sift the Baking Surface:

Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier

Grind the Cookies and Sugar:

Place the shortbread cookies and powdered sugar in a food processor and pulse for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until they become fine crumbs& this uniform crumb is key for a smooth mixture

Mix in Cream Cheese and Kahlua:

Add the softened cream cheese, Kahlua coffee liqueur, and optional espresso powder to the food processor& pulse for 20 to 30 seconds until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy without lumps

Form the Kahlua Balls:

Using a 1 and a half inch cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop out the mixture into balls and place them on one of the prepared baking sheets& this size balances bite-sized with satisfying flavor

Chill to Firm Up:

Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for at least one hour to allow the balls to harden enough to roll smoothly and dip in chocolate

Roll Smoothly:

Once chilled, roll each portion gently in your palms to make smooth, uniform balls& place them back in the fridge so they stay firm while melting the chocolate

Melt the Milk Chocolate:

Microwave the milk chocolate almond bark in a microwave safe bowl on high for one minute, stir, then heat in additional 30 second bursts stirring frequently& avoid overheating to keep it silky and shiny

Dip the Balls in Chocolate:

Use a fork to dip each ball fully into the melted milk chocolate& tap the fork gently on the bowl edge to remove excess chocolate and then slide the coated ball onto the second parchment-lined baking sheet

Prepare the White Chocolate Drizzle:

Melt the white chocolate almond bark the same way as the milk chocolate& once smooth, transfer to a piping bag or use a spoon to drizzle decorative lines over the coated Kahlua balls

Final Chill:

Place the tray back into the refrigerator for about 15 minutes so the chocolate coating sets before serving

The shortbread cookies are my favorite part since they add a buttery, slightly crumbly texture that contrasts so well with the cream cheese filling. Making these reminds me of cozy holiday gatherings where everyone eagerly waits for these polished little indulgences to show up.

Storage Tips

Store Kahlua Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them firm and fresh for up to one week. They can also be frozen in a single layer on a tray before transferring to a container for up to three months—allow to thaw in the fridge before serving. Avoid storing at room temperature for extended periods or the cream cheese center may soften too much.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute Kahlua with another coffee-flavored liqueur such as Tia Maria or even strong coffee if you prefer a non-alcoholic version. If you cannot find almond bark, high-quality chocolate chips or chopped bars will work but be careful to temper or melt gently. For a nut-free option, use chocolate melts that are guaranteed nut free or regular chocolate with caution regarding cross-contamination.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Kahlua Balls chilled on a decorative platter with coffee or dessert wine for an elegant treat. They are perfect bite-sized accompaniments to a holiday cookie platter or an after-dinner treat at gatherings. Consider pairing with fresh fruit or lightly salted nuts to balance sweetness.

These Kahlua Balls combine simplicity and elegance for a crowd-pleasing dessert that's as easy as it is delicious.

FAQs about Recipes

→ What ingredients enhance the coffee flavor in these balls?

Kahlua coffee-flavored liqueur and optional instant espresso powder intensify the rich coffee notes.

→ How do you achieve a smooth texture for rolling the balls?

Thoroughly pulsing the shortbread crumbs and mixing with softened cream cheese ensures a smooth, cohesive mixture ideal for shaping.

→ What is the best way to melt the chocolate coatings?

Microwave in short intervals while stirring to prevent overheating and achieve a silky smooth chocolate for dipping.

→ How long should the balls chill before dipping?

Chill for at least one hour to firm up the mixture, making it easier to roll and dip without losing shape.

→ Can the white chocolate drizzle be applied without a piping bag?

Yes, a spoon or fork can be used to create the drizzle effect if a piping bag is not available.