Ultimate Kentucky Derby Pie Recipe: Irresistibly Easy!

Craving a dessert that’s rich, gooey, and packed with Southern charm? Look no further than the Kentucky Derby pie recipe, a beloved treat that’s a staple at the iconic Kentucky Derby. This indulgent pie, with its blend of chocolate, nuts, and a hint of bourbon, is perfect for race day celebrations or any occasion that calls for a show-stopping dessert. Whether you’re hosting a Derby party or simply want to savor a slice of tradition, this recipe is easy to make and sure to impress. Let’s dive into how to create this decadent pie, explore its unique qualities, and answer all your burning questions about this Southern classic

What’s in a Kentucky Derby Pie?

So, what’s in a Kentucky Derby pie? This dessert is a delightful mash-up of textures and flavors, featuring a buttery pie crust filled with a sticky-sweet mixture. Here’s the breakdown of the key components:

• Pie Crust: A flaky, store-bought or homemade pastry crust forms the base.
• Nuts: Traditionally walnuts, though pecans are often used for their sweeter, richer flavor.
• Chocolate: Semi-sweet chocolate chips add a fudgy, decadent layer.
• Sweet Filling: A blend of corn syrup, sugar, eggs, and butter creates the gooey, caramel-like texture.
• Bourbon (Optional): A splash of Kentucky bourbon enhances the flavor with smoky, caramel notes.
• Vanilla and Flour: These add depth and structure to the filling.

The result is a pie that’s crunchy, chewy, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious, often described as a cross between a pecan pie and a chocolate chip cookie.

How to Make Kentucky Derby Pie?

Ready to bake? Here’s a detailed guide on how to make Kentucky Derby pie that’s perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike.

Ingredients

• Main Ingredients:
  • 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup pecans, coarsely chopped (or walnuts for a traditional touch)
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or dark chocolate for a richer flavor)
  • 3 large eggs
  • ¾ cup light corn syrup (or dark corn syrup for a deeper flavor)
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup light brown sugar, packed
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
  • 2 tbsp Kentucky bourbon (optional, or substitute with apple juice)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • ¼ tsp salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

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1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F. Place the unbaked pie crust in a 9-inch pie plate, crimping the edges. Set on a baking sheet to catch spills.
2. Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, whisk eggs, corn syrup, granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, bourbon (if using), and vanilla until smooth.
3. Add dry ingredients: Stir in flour and salt, mixing until no lumps remain.
4. Fold in nuts and chocolate: Gently fold pecans and chocolate chips into the filling, ensuring even distribution.
5. Fill the crust: Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading evenly.
6. Bake the pie: Bake for 45-50 minutes, until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly. Cover the crust with a pie shield or foil after 25 minutes to prevent over-browning.
7. Cool and serve: Cool the pie on a wire rack for at least 2 hours to set. Serve warm or chilled with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

This recipe yields a golden-brown pie with a gooey center and crunchy top, ready in about 3 hours total, including cooling time.

Can You Use Bourbon in Derby Pie?

A common question is, can you use bourbon in Derby pie? Absolutely! Bourbon is a hallmark of many Kentucky Derby pie recipes, adding a warm, caramel-like depth that complements the chocolate and nuts. However, it’s optional:

• With Bourbon: Use 1-2 tablespoons of a quality Kentucky bourbon (e.g., Maker’s Mark or Woodford Reserve). The alcohol bakes off, leaving a rich flavor safe for all ages.
• Without Bourbon: Substitute with apple juice, water, or bourbon extract for a similar taste without alcohol.

Interestingly, the original Derby Pie by Kern’s Kitchen reportedly doesn’t include bourbon, but many modern recipes embrace it for that authentic Kentucky flair.

What’s the Difference Between Derby Pie and Pecan Pie?

Another frequent query is, what’s the difference between Derby Pie and pecan pie? While they share similarities, here are the key distinctions:

• Nuts: Derby Pie traditionally uses walnuts, though pecans are common in modern versions. Pecan pie exclusively uses pecans.
• Chocolate: Derby Pie includes chocolate chips, giving it a fudgy layer. Pecan pie typically has no chocolate.
• Bourbon: Derby Pie often incorporates bourbon for a smoky kick, while pecan pie rarely does.
• Texture: Derby Pie has a denser, cookie-like filling due to flour and chocolate, whereas pecan pie is stickier and more custard-like.

Think of Derby Pie as a pecan pie’s decadent cousin, with extra layers of flavor.

Does Derby Pie Need to Be Refrigerated?

Does Derby Pie need to be refrigerated? It depends on how long you plan to store it. Due to the egg-based filling, follow these guidelines:

• Room Temperature: Safe for up to 2 hours after baking. If serving within a day, cover with plastic wrap and store in a cool, dry place.
• Refrigeration: For longer storage, refrigerate the pie in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. It stays fresh for up to 4-5 days.

To serve refrigerated pie, let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes or warm it in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes for that fresh-baked taste.

How Long Does Derby Pie Last?

Wondering how long does Derby Pie last? Proper storage is key:

• Room Temperature: Up to 1-2 days, covered tightly.
• Refrigerator: Up to 4-5 days when wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in a pie keeper.
• Freezer: See can you freeze Kentucky Derby pie below for details.

Always check for signs of spoilage, like an off odor or mold, before consuming.

Can You Make Derby Pie Without Nuts?

For those with allergies or preferences, can you make Derby Pie without nuts? Yes, but it alters the traditional texture:

• Omit Nuts: Skip the pecans or walnuts entirely for a chocolate-heavy pie with a gooey, fudgy filling.
• Substitutions: Replace nuts with crushed pretzels, oats, or coconut flakes for crunch without allergens.
• Adjustments: Reduce the filling slightly (e.g., use ¾ cup corn syrup) to prevent overflow in a standard pie crust.

While nuts are a hallmark, a nut-free version is still delicious and retains the chocolate-bourbon essence.

Can You Freeze Kentucky Derby Pie?

Can you freeze Kentucky Derby pie? Yes, it freezes well with proper care:

• Freezing: Cool the pie completely, then wrap tightly in two layers of plastic wrap and a layer of aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• Thawing: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bring to room temperature or warm in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes.
• Note: Freezing may slightly soften the crust and alter the texture, so fresh is best for optimal crunch.

Freeze individual slices for portion control, wrapping each in plastic wrap before placing in a freezer-safe bag.

What Chocolate Is Best for Derby Pie?

Choosing the right chocolate is crucial, so what chocolate is best for Derby Pie? Here’s the scoop:

• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: The classic choice, balancing sweetness with cocoa intensity. Brands like Ghirardelli or Nestlé work well.
• Dark Chocolate Chips: For a richer, less sweet pie, use 60-70% cocoa dark chocolate.
• Milk Chocolate: Sweeter and creamier but can overpower the filling—use sparingly.
• Chopped Chocolate: For a rustic look, chop a semi-sweet or dark chocolate bar into chunks.

Avoid white chocolate, as it’s too sweet and lacks the depth needed. Toss chips with 1 tbsp flour before adding to prevent sinking.

Is Derby Pie a Trademarked Name?

Is Derby Pie a trademarked name? Yes, and it’s a fascinating piece of culinary history. The original Derby Pie was created in 1954 by the Kern family at the Melrose Inn in Prospect, Kentucky. They trademarked “Derby Pie” in 1969, and Kern’s Kitchen fiercely protects it, even suing publications like Bon Appétit for misuse. As a result, many recipes use names like “Kentucky Bourbon Pie” or “Derby-Style Pie” to avoid legal issues. The official recipe remains a secret, but copycat versions like this one capture its essence with pecans, chocolate, and bourbon.

Nutrition Information (Per Slice, 1/10 of Pie)

• Calories: 520
• Protein: 6g
• Carbs: 60g
• Fat: 30g

Final Thoughts

The Kentucky Derby pie recipe is a celebration of Southern flavors, blending crunchy nuts, melty chocolate, and a hint of bourbon in a flaky crust. Whether you’re cheering on the horses or hosting a cozy gathering, this pie is a winner. Bake it, share it, and savor every gooey bite!

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