Classic Kentucky Derby Pie Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 cup of granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons of Kentucky bourbon
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
  • 1 cup of chopped pecans
  • 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
  • Whipped cream for garnish (optional)

Steps and instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine the sugar and flour.
  3. Beat in the eggs and melted butter until the mixture is well combined.
  4. Add in the Kentucky bourbon and vanilla extract, stirring to incorporate.
  5. Mix in the chopped pecans and chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
  6. Pour the mixture into the unbaked pie crust, spreading it out so it fills the crust evenly.
  7. Place the pie on the center rack of the preheated oven.
  8. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the top is set and golden brown.
  9. Remove from the oven and let the pie cool completely before serving.
  10. Optionally, top with whipped cream before serving.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Use a graham cracker crust instead of a traditional pie crust for a different flavor and texture.
  • Substitute walnuts or almonds for the pecans for a variation in nutty flavor.
  • Try using dark chocolate chips or white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips for a unique twist.
  • Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling mixture for a hint of warm spice.
  • For a boozy twist, substitute the bourbon with rum or brandy.
  • Experiment with different extracts such as almond or maple for a different flavor profile.
  • Add a tablespoon of instant coffee granules to intensify the chocolate flavor.
  • For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

Recipe overview

Derby Pie is a decadent dessert that's an essential part of any Kentucky Derby celebration. This beloved Southern staple is a sweet pie filled with a rich mix of sugar, butter, flour, eggs, Kentucky bourbon, vanilla extract, chopped pecans, and chocolate chips. Baked to perfection until golden brown, this dessert is a wonderful blend of a nutty pecan pie and a chocolate chip cookie. Top off your slice with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra layer of delight. Whether you're hosting a Kentucky Derby party or simply craving a sweet, comforting dessert, this Derby Pie recipe is sure to be a hit. Expect a rich, buttery, and slightly boozy delight that's surprisingly easy to make!

Common questions

  1. Can I substitute the bourbon with another ingredient? Yes, you can substitute the bourbon with 2 tablespoons of strong coffee or 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract.
  2. Can I use a different type of nut instead of pecans? Yes, you can use walnuts, almonds, or a mix of nuts according to your preference.
  3. How should I store the Derby Pie? Store the pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for the best taste and freshness.
  4. Can I freeze the Derby Pie? Yes, you can freeze the pie after it has cooled completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing for up to 2-3 months.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Pie dish - A 9-inch pie dish is ideal for baking the Derby Pie.
  • Mixing bowls - Several mixing bowls will be helpful for combining ingredients.
  • Whisk - A whisk is useful for beating the eggs and incorporating the ingredients smoothly.
  • Measuring cups and spoons - To ensure accurate measurements of the ingredients.
  • Oven mitts - To handle the hot pie dish when placing it in the oven or removing it.
  • Pie server - For neatly slicing and serving the pie.
  • Cooling rack - To allow the pie to cool evenly after baking.

Origin stories

Legend has it that the Derby Pie, which is essentially a chocolate and pecan tart, got its name from a friendly family argument. The pie was created by Walter and Leaudra Kern, who ran the Melrose Inn in Prospect, Kentucky. They wanted a unique dessert to serve their customers, so they concocted a recipe that included chocolate chips and pecans, along with a splash of bourbon, a common ingredient in the Bluegrass State. Once they had the recipe nailed down, they couldn't decide on a name. The story goes that they put several names in a hat, and the name that was drawn was "Derby Pie", in honor of the famous horse race, the Kentucky Derby, held annually in their home state. Today, the name "Derby Pie" is a registered trademark of Kern's Kitchen, the Louisville company that was founded by the Kern family and still makes the pie according to the original recipe.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.

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