Margarita Balls Recipe

Introduction

Margarita balls are a delightful no-bake treat that capture the refreshing flavors of a classic margarita cocktail in a bite-sized dessert. Creamy, tangy, and sweet with a hint of citrus zest, they make a perfect party appetizer or a fun twist on cookies for any occasion.

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
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• Lime zest (for coating)

Instructions

1. Step 1: 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 well combined.
2. Step 2: Stir in the vanilla wafer crumbs until the mixture becomes sticky and holds together.
3. Step 3: Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, using your hands for even sizing.
4. Step 4: Combine the white sugar with lime zest in a shallow bowl and roll each ball in the mixture to coat evenly.
5. Step 5: Place the coated balls on a tray and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm.
6. Step 6: Serve chilled and enjoy these tangy, sweet treats!

Tips & Variations

• For a stronger lime flavor, add extra lime zest into the cream cheese mixture before forming the balls.
• Substitute orange liqueur with a splash of orange juice for a milder, alcohol-free version.
• Use crushed graham crackers instead of vanilla wafers for a slightly different texture and flavor.
• Chill the mixture briefly before rolling if it feels too soft to handle easily.

Storage

Store margarita balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They are best served chilled straight from the fridge. If the coating softens, you can briefly chill them again before serving to firm up the texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make margarita balls ahead of time?

Yes, they can be made a day or two in advance and kept refrigerated. This helps the flavors meld together nicely while saving you prep time on the day you want to serve them.

Are margarita balls suitable for kids?

Since they contain tequila and orange liqueur, margarita balls are intended for adults. To make a kid-friendly version, replace the alcohol with extra lime juice or a splash of orange juice.

Margarita Balls Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 106 reviews

These Margarita Balls are a delightful no-bake treat combining the tangy flavors of lime and tequila with a sweet creamy base and a crunchy vanilla wafer coating. Perfect for parties or a refreshing dessert, they offer the familiar zest of a margarita in a bite-sized, creamy, and sugary snack.

• Author: Amaya
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 balls 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Base Mixture

• 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

1. Combine Ingredients: 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 well combined, ensuring a creamy and consistent base.
2. Add Crumbs: Stir in the vanilla wafer crumbs into the mixture until it comes together and becomes sticky enough to form balls.
3. Form Balls: Roll the mixture into small balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter, ensuring they are compact and hold their shape.
4. Coat Balls: Roll each ball in a mixture made from white sugar and lime zest, coating them evenly for extra flavor and a slight crunch.
5. Refrigerate: Place the coated margarita balls in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours or until firm to set properly.
6. Serve: Serve the margarita balls chilled for a refreshing and flavorful dessert experience.

Notes

• Ensure cream cheese is fully softened at room temperature for easier mixing.
• Adjust the amount of powdered sugar for sweetness preference.
• For stronger alcohol flavor, slightly increase tequila and orange liqueur but be cautious not to overdo.
• You can substitute orange liqueur with orange juice for a non-alcoholic version.
• Use fresh lime zest to enhance the aroma and flavor on the coating.
• Keep refrigerated until ready to serve to maintain their shape and freshness.

Keywords: Margarita Balls, No-Bake Dessert, Cream Cheese Dessert, Lime Dessert, Party Treats