A Rich, Gooey Southern Classic
If you love pecan pie and chocolate chip cookies, then Kentucky Derby Pie is the dessert for you! This iconic Southern pie is rich, buttery, and loaded with chocolate chips, pecans (or walnuts), and a gooey brown sugar filling. It’s the perfect dessert for the Kentucky Derby, Thanksgiving, or any time you crave an indulgent treat.
I love this recipe because it’s easy to make, requires simple ingredients, and delivers a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch. Serve it warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, and watch it disappear!
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
Q: What is Kentucky Derby Pie?
Kentucky Derby Pie is a sweet, nutty, chocolate-filled pie baked in a flaky crust. It was created in 1954 at the Melrose Inn in Kentucky and has become a Derby Day tradition.
Q: Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?
Yes! Traditional Derby Pie is often made with walnuts, but pecans work beautifully too.
Q: Does this pie need to be refrigerated?
Yes, since it has eggs and butter, it’s best to store it in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Q: Can I freeze Kentucky Derby Pie?
Yes! Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slices in the oven.
Q: Can I make this without bourbon?
Yes! Bourbon adds a depth of flavor, but you can leave it out or replace it with vanilla extract for a non-alcoholic version.
What You Need to Make Kentucky Derby Pie
For the Pie Crust:
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
For the Filling:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons bourbon (optional)
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- ¾ cup semisweet chocolate chips
For Serving:
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
How to Make Kentucky Derby Pie
Step 1: Preheat & Prep the Crust
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the unbaked pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and flour until smooth.
- Add eggs, vanilla, and bourbon (if using), and whisk until fully combined.
- Stir in chopped nuts and chocolate chips.
Step 3: Assemble & Bake
- Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the center is set but slightly gooey.
Step 4: Cool & Serve
- Let the pie cool for at least 1 hour before slicing.
- Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Tips for the Best Kentucky Derby Pie
✔ Use good-quality bourbon – If using bourbon, go for a smooth Kentucky variety for the best flavor.
✔ Don’t overbake – The pie should be slightly gooey in the center for a rich texture.
✔ Let it cool before slicing – This allows the filling to set properly.
✔ For extra crunch – Toast the nuts before adding them to the filling.
✔ Want a deeper flavor? – Use dark chocolate chips instead of semisweet.
Reader Reviews
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Emma L. – “This was the best Derby Pie I’ve ever had! The chocolate and bourbon flavors were perfect.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟 James K. – “Super easy to make, and everyone at my Derby party loved it! Definitely making again.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Samantha W. – “Rich, gooey, and SO delicious! I used pecans, and it turned out amazing.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟 Lucas R. – “I left out the bourbon, and it was still incredible. A new family favorite!”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Jessica T. – “The best pie for chocolate lovers! Served it with homemade whipped cream—perfection!”
Printable Recipe
Kentucky Derby Pie
Ingredients
- For the Pie Crust:
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- For the Filling:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons bourbon (optional)
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- ¾ cup semisweet chocolate chips
- For Serving:
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep the Crust
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the unbaked pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and flour until smooth.
- Add eggs, vanilla, and bourbon (if using), and whisk until fully combined.
- Stir in chopped nuts and chocolate chips.
Step 3: Assemble & Bake
- Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the center is set but slightly gooey.
Step 4: Cool & Serve
- Let the pie cool for at least 1 hour before slicing.
- Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
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If You Enjoyed This Recipe, Please Share!
If you loved this Kentucky Derby Pie, don’t keep it to yourself! Share it on social media, pin it on Pinterest, or send it to a friend who loves Southern desserts. Nothing beats sharing the joy of homemade treats! Tag me if you try it!
