These margarita balls are bite-sized, no-bake treats inspired by the classic lime-forward cocktail—without the mess or the shaker. They’re sweet, tangy, lightly salty, and perfect for parties, holidays, or make-ahead desserts. If you love citrus desserts like homemade lemon drops, this recipe will be right up your alley.
Why You’ll Love It
- No baking: Just mix, roll, and chill.
- Bold lime flavor: Fresh juice and zest make a big difference.
- Party-ready: Easy to serve and easy to transport.
- Flexible: Make them alcohol-free or adult-style.
Margarita Balls (No-Bake Lime Treats)
- Total Time: 1 hour (includes chilling)
- Yield: 24 balls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These no-bake Margarita Balls are sweet, tangy, and inspired by the classic lime cocktail—perfect for parties, holidays, or make-ahead treats.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups vanilla wafer crumbs
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp lime zest (from 1–2 limes)
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 tbsp orange juice
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp coarse sugar, for rolling
- Optional: 1–2 tbsp tequila (for adult version)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix the vanilla wafer crumbs and powdered sugar until evenly combined.
- Add the softened cream cheese, lime zest, lime juice, orange juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until a thick dough forms.
- If making an adult version, gently stir in the tequila until just combined.
- Scoop the mixture into 1-inch portions and roll into smooth balls.
- Roll each ball in coarse sugar to mimic a salted margarita rim.
- Place on a lined baking sheet and chill for at least 45 minutes before serving.
Notes
For extra tang, add 1/2 tsp more lime zest. Swap vanilla wafers for shortbread crumbs. For a fun twist, roll in sugar mixed with lime zest. Make alcohol-free by omitting tequila.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: margarita balls, lime, no-bake, dessert, party treat
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups vanilla wafer crumbs
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp lime zest (from 1–2 limes)
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 tbsp orange juice
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp coarse sugar, for rolling
- Optional (adults only): 1–2 tbsp tequila
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix the vanilla wafer crumbs and powdered sugar until evenly combined.
- Add the softened cream cheese, lime zest, lime juice, orange juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until a thick dough forms.
- If making an adult version, gently stir in the tequila until just combined.
- Scoop the mixture into 1-inch portions and roll into smooth balls.
- Roll each ball in coarse sugar to mimic a salted margarita rim.
- Place on a lined baking sheet and chill for at least 45 minutes before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra tang, add an additional 1/2 teaspoon of lime zest.
- Swap vanilla wafers with shortbread crumbs for a buttery twist.
- Roll in a mix of sugar and finely grated lime zest for more color.
- Love bite-sized sweets? Try Oreo balls for another no-bake option.
Substitutions
- Use graham cracker crumbs instead of vanilla wafers.
- Replace cream cheese with mascarpone for a softer texture.
- Skip alcohol entirely and add extra lime juice for a kid-friendly version.
Serving Suggestions
Serve margarita balls chilled on a small platter with lime wedges. They pair well with citrus desserts like Meyer lemon meltaways or sweet party bites such as Samoa truffles.
Storage & Reheating
Store these treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. No reheating needed.
FAQs
Do margarita balls contain alcohol?
They can, but it’s optional. The base recipe is alcohol-free, making it suitable for all ages unless tequila is added.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes. These are ideal make-ahead treats and actually taste better after chilling.
More to Try
Conclusion
These margarita balls deliver everything you love about a margarita—bright lime, subtle sweetness, and that signature sugar coating— in an easy, no-bake dessert. Whether you make them alcohol-free or adult-style, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast.