Kentucky Derby Bars

Celebrate the Kentucky Derby with these easy and delicious Kentucky Derby Bars. These treats are a delightful twist on the classic Derby Pie, featuring rich flavors of chocolate, pecans, and a buttery crust. Perfect for gatherings or simply indulging at home, these bars embody the spirit of the Derby with every bite.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these Kentucky Derby Bars in less than an hour.
• Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate chips and chopped pecans creates a rich and satisfying dessert that everyone will love.
• Versatile Treat: Whether for the Derby, family gatherings, or casual get-togethers, these bars fit any occasion perfectly.
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare them in advance, making them an excellent choice for busy days or special events.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: With 24 servings per batch, they are ideal for sharing with friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools will make preparing your Kentucky Derby Bars a breeze. Below are some essential items to gather before you start baking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking pan (13×9 inches)
• Aluminum foil
• Nonstick cooking spray
• Mixing bowls
• Pastry blender
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking pan: This specific size ensures even baking and allows for perfect portion sizes.
• Pastry blender: Using this tool helps to achieve that sandy texture in the crust by cutting butter into the dry ingredients effectively.
• Whisk: A good whisk is essential for mixing ingredients smoothly without lumps.

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)

For the Filling

• 1 cup firmly packed brown sugar
• 1 cup dark corn syrup
• 1/2 cup butter (melted)
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups chopped pecans
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

How to Make Kentucky Derby Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 13×9-inch baking pan with aluminum foil, allowing some excess to hang over the edges. This makes it easier to lift out the bars later. Spray the foil with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

In a large bowl:
1. Whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt until well combined.
2. Use a pastry blender to cut in unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Transfer this mixture into your prepared baking pan and press it firmly into an even layer across the bottom.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes or until lightly browned.

Enjoy creating your Kentucky Derby Bars! These sweet treats are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

How to Serve Kentucky Derby Bars

Kentucky Derby Bars are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways, making them perfect for any gathering. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

With Fresh Whipped Cream

• Top each bar with a dollop of fresh whipped cream for a light, airy contrast to the rich flavors.

Accompanied by Vanilla Ice Cream

• Serve warm Kentucky Derby Bars alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The melting ice cream pairs beautifully with the chocolate and pecan flavors.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• For chocolate lovers, drizzle some chocolate sauce over the bars before serving. It adds an extra layer of sweetness and visual appeal.

Garnished with Pecans

• Sprinkle additional chopped pecans on top for added crunch and a sophisticated look.

Paired with Coffee

• Serve these bars with a cup of freshly brewed coffee. The bitterness of the coffee balances the sweetness of the dessert perfectly.

PIN THIS!

How to Perfect Kentucky Derby Bars

To achieve the best results when making Kentucky Derby Bars, consider the following tips:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix ingredients just until combined to keep your bars tender and not tough.

• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your baking time; overbaking can result in dry bars. They should be set but slightly gooey in the center.

• Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares for clean edges.

Best Side Dishes for Kentucky Derby Bars

Pairing side dishes with your Kentucky Derby Bars can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the richness of the bars.

2. Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses can complement the sweet flavors while providing a savory touch.

3. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries – These delightful treats echo the chocolate in the bars and make for an elegant presentation.

4. Pecan Pie Bites – Mini pecan pies offer a fun twist and pair well with the main dessert’s flavors.

5. Vanilla Yogurt Parfaits – Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a refreshing side that contrasts nicely with the bars.

6. S’mores Dip – This gooey dip brings another layer of sweetness that guests will enjoy dunking their bars into.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Kentucky Derby Bars can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using cold butter – Cold butter can lead to a crumbly crust. Make sure to use softened butter for the best texture.
• Skipping the lining of the pan – Not lining the pan can cause your bars to stick. Always line with foil and spray with nonstick cooking spray for easy removal.
• Overmixing the batter – Overmixing can make the bars tough. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a tender texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately – Improper measurements can ruin your recipe. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Baking at the wrong temperature – Baking at too high or too low a temperature can affect doneness. Always preheat your oven and double-check your temperature setting.

PIN THIS!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Kentucky Derby Bars in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Kentucky Derby Bars

• Freeze bars in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Kentucky Derby Bars

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 10 minutes for a warm treat.
• Microwave – Microwave individual servings on medium power for 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop – Place in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid for even warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries related to Kentucky Derby Bars.

How do I know when my Kentucky Derby Bars are done?

The bars should be set around the edges but slightly soft in the center. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs.

Can I use different nuts in Kentucky Derby Bars?

Yes! While pecans are traditional, you can substitute walnuts or almonds if you prefer.

What’s the difference between Kentucky Derby Bars and Derby Pie?

Kentucky Derby Bars are a portable dessert version of Derby Pie, which is typically served as a pie rather than in bar form.

How should I serve Kentucky Derby Bars?

Cut them into squares and serve plain, or top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!

Final Thoughts

Kentucky Derby Bars are not only delicious but also versatile, making them perfect for celebrations or everyday treats. Feel free to customize them by adding different nuts or flavorings. Try this recipe, and enjoy every bite!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Kentucky Derby Bars

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Eva
• Total Time: 1 hour 8 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Kentucky Derby Bars are a delectable twist on the classic Derby Pie, making them the perfect treat for celebrating the Kentucky Derby or any gathering. These easy-to-make bars feature a rich combination of chocolate, pecans, and a buttery crust that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight. With each bite, you’ll experience the essence of Southern charm and hospitality. Ideal for sharing or indulging at home, these bars are sure to impress family and friends alike.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup firmly packed brown sugar
• 1 cup dark corn syrup
• 1/2 cup butter (melted)
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups chopped pecans
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 13×9-inch baking pan with aluminum foil and spray it with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners' sugar, and salt. Cut in softened butter using a pastry blender until crumbly.
3. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 15-18 minutes until lightly browned.
4. In another bowl, combine brown sugar, dark corn syrup, melted butter, eggs, chopped pecans, and chocolate chips. Pour over the baked crust.
5. Bake for an additional 30 minutes or until set. Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 48 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 40mg