Introduction

Margarita Balls are a delightful, bite-sized treat that captures the refreshing flavors of a classic margarita cocktail. These creamy, tangy, and sweet treats are perfect for parties or anytime you want a fun twist on a dessert.

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

Step 1: In a medium-sized bowl, beat together the cream cheese, lime juice, powdered sugar, tequila, and orange liqueur until smooth and well combined.
Step 2: Stir in the vanilla wafer crumbs until the mixture comes together and is sticky.
Step 3: Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
Step 4: Roll each ball in a mixture of white sugar and lime zest to coat them evenly.
Step 5: Refrigerate the margarita balls for at least 2 hours or until firm.
Step 6: Serve chilled and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For an extra citrusy punch, add a teaspoon of lime zest directly into the cream cheese mixture.
You can substitute orange liqueur with a little orange extract for a non-alcoholic version.
Try rolling the balls in crushed graham crackers or toasted coconut for a different texture and flavor.

Storage

Store the margarita balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They taste best served chilled. If they soften too much, you can briefly freeze them to firm up before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these margarita balls ahead of time?

Yes, preparing them a day or two ahead is perfect. Just keep them refrigerated in an airtight container until ready to serve.

Can I omit the alcohol in this recipe?

Absolutely. Replace tequila and orange liqueur with lime juice and orange extract respectively for a non-alcoholic version that still delivers great flavor.

Margarita Balls Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 105 reviews

Margarita Balls are a delightful no-bake treat that combines the tangy zest of lime with the smooth creaminess of cream cheese and a spirited kick of tequila and orange liqueur. Rolled in vanilla wafer crumbs and a zesty sugar coating, these bite-sized desserts are perfect for parties or as a refreshing sweet snack chilled to perfection.

Author: Tara
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

Margarita Ball 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, about 1 tablespoon)

Instructions

Mix Cream Cheese Base: In a medium-sized bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, lime juice, powdered sugar, tequila, and orange liqueur until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and well combined, ensuring no lumps remain.
Add Vanilla Wafer Crumbs: Stir in the vanilla wafer crumbs thoroughly until the mixture is sticky and comes together enough to shape into balls.
Form Balls: Using your hands, roll the mixture into small balls approximately 1 inch in diameter, making sure they are compact and evenly sized for consistent chilling and serving.
Prepare Coating: Combine the white sugar and lime zest in a small bowl. Roll each cream cheese ball in this sugar and zest mixture to coat evenly, adding a bright citrus flavor and a slightly crunchy texture.
Chill: Place the coated margarita balls on a tray or plate and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until they are firm to the touch.
Serve: Serve the margarita balls chilled. Enjoy these refreshing, creamy treats as a delightful dessert or party appetizer.

Notes

For extra zest, add more lime zest to the coating mixture according to your preference.
Use softened cream cheese at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother batter.
Store leftover margarita balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For a festive touch, garnish with a small lime wedge or edible glitter before serving.
Non-alcoholic version: Replace tequila and orange liqueur with orange juice and a splash of lime soda for a kid-friendly version.

Keywords: margarita balls, no bake dessert, lime cream cheese balls, tequila treats, party appetizers, no cook dessert