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kentucky derby pie recipe
Aima Solace

Kentucky Derby Pie Recipe

A rich, gooey Southern dessert with pecans, chocolate chips, and a hint of bourbon, baked in a flaky pie crust, perfect for Derby celebrations.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 10
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust store-bought or homemade
  • 1 cup pecans coarsely chopped (or walnuts for traditional flavor)
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or dark chocolate for richer taste
  • 3 large eggs
  • ¾ cup light corn syrup or dark corn syrup for 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

Method
 

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

Notes

  • Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for 2-3 months, wrapped tightly.
  • Substitutions: Use apple juice instead of bourbon, or omit nuts for a fudgy version (reduce corn syrup to ¾ cup).
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and crust.
  • Prevent Sinking: Toss chocolate chips and nuts with 1 tbsp flour before adding to filling.

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