Celebrate the Kentucky Derby with these easy and delicious Kentucky Derby Bars. Much like Derby Pie, these bars are packed with traditional elements like butter, eggs, pecans, and chocolate! Perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat at home, these bars combine rich flavors with a simple recipe that anyone can master.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Delicious Flavor: These Kentucky Derby Bars feature a perfect blend of chocolate and pecans, creating a rich and satisfying dessert.
Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can whip up these delightful bars without hassle.
Versatile Serving Options: Ideal for parties, picnics, or family gatherings, these bars bring a festive touch to any occasion.
Great for Sharing: With 24 servings per batch, they are perfect for sharing with friends and family during the Derby or any celebration.
Classic American Dessert: Enjoy the taste of this timeless dessert that pays homage to Kentucky’s famous Derby Pie.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Kentucky Derby Bars, gather your tools to ensure everything goes smoothly. Having the right equipment will make the process easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

Baking pan: The right size ensures even baking, giving you perfectly shaped bars.
Aluminum foil: This helps with easy removal of the bars from the pan after baking.
Nonstick cooking spray: Prevents sticking, making cleanup easier.
Pastry blender: Ideal for cutting butter into flour quickly and evenly.

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. Let the excess foil hang over the sides of the pan for easy removal later. Spray the foil with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Using a pastry blender, cut in the softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Transfer this mixture to your prepared pan and press it firmly into an even layer across the bottom. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes or until lightly browned.

With these steps completed, you’re well on your way to enjoying your homemade Kentucky Derby Bars! Stay tuned for further instructions on adding that delightful filling.

How to Serve Kentucky Derby Bars

Serving Kentucky Derby Bars can elevate any gathering, especially during the Kentucky Derby season. These decadent treats can be enjoyed in various ways that enhance their rich flavors.

Individual Portions

Serve each bar cut into squares for easy handling, perfect for parties and gatherings.

With Whipped Cream

Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for a light, creamy contrast to the rich chocolate and pecans.

With Ice Cream

Pair these bars with vanilla or caramel ice cream for a delightful dessert combination.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

Include Kentucky Derby Bars on a dessert platter alongside other sweets like brownies and cookies for variety.

How to Perfect Kentucky Derby Bars

To achieve the best results with your Kentucky Derby Bars, follow these tips for perfecting the recipe.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and pecans are fresh for optimal flavor and texture.
Don’t Overmix the Crust: Mix just until combined to keep the crust tender and flaky.
Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to verify your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking.
Let Cool Before Cutting: Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing to avoid crumbling.
Experiment with Nuts: While pecans are traditional, try walnuts or almonds for a different twist.
Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for extended freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Kentucky Derby Bars

Pairing side dishes with Kentucky Derby Bars enhances your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing touch that balances the sweetness of the bars.
Mint Julep: This classic cocktail complements the flavors of the bars while embracing the spirit of the Derby.
Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: These treats echo the chocolate in the bars and add an elegant flair.
Pecan Pie Bites: Miniature versions of pecan pie offer a delightful contrast to the bars while keeping with the theme.
Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can provide a savory balance against the sweet bars.
Vanilla Custard: A silky custard adds creaminess that pairs beautifully with the texture of Kentucky Derby Bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Kentucky Derby Bars can be a delightful experience, but there are some common mistakes you should avoid to ensure the best results.

Using cold butter – Cold butter can make it difficult to achieve the right texture in your crust. Always use softened butter for better mixing.
Skipping the crust baking – Don’t skip pre-baking the crust as it helps create a solid base. This prevents the filling from making it soggy.
Overmixing the filling – Overmixing can lead to an undesirable texture. Mix just until combined for a smoother filling.
Not measuring ingredients accurately – Precise measurements are key. Use dry measuring cups for flour and sugar to get perfect results.
Ignoring cooling time – Letting your bars cool completely before cutting ensures clean slices and better presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store Kentucky Derby Bars in an airtight container.
They can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Kentucky Derby Bars

Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Kentucky Derby Bars

Oven – Preheat to 350°F, place bars on a baking sheet, and warm for about 10 minutes.
Microwave – Heat bars on a microwave-safe plate for 15-20 seconds or until warm.
Stovetop – Place bars in a non-stick skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Kentucky Derby Bars that might help you with your baking journey.

What are Kentucky Derby Bars?

Kentucky Derby Bars are delicious dessert bars inspired by Derby Pie, featuring rich chocolate, pecans, and a sweet filling.

Can I substitute other nuts in Kentucky Derby Bars?

Yes! You can use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans if you prefer different nut flavors.

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

The edges should be set and slightly golden brown while the center remains soft but not liquidy.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them one day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Kentucky Derby Bars are not only rich and satisfying but also versatile enough for various occasions. Feel free to customize them by adding different nuts or chocolate types. Try making this delightful dessert at your next gathering!

Kentucky Derby Bars

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Author: Julia
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: Approximately 24 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Kentucky Derby Bars, a scrumptious dessert inspired by the classic Derby Pie. These bars combine rich chocolate, crunchy pecans, and a sweet filling for an irresistible treat that is perfect for any celebration. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, these easy-to-make bars promise to be the star of the show. With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, even novice bakers can create this decadent dessert that captures the spirit of the Kentucky Derby.

Ingredients

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

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 13×9-inch baking pan with aluminum foil and spray with nonstick cooking spray.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners' sugar, and salt. Cut in softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 15 to 18 minutes until lightly browned.
In another bowl, combine brown sugar, dark corn syrup, melted butter, eggs, pecans, and chocolate chips; mix well.
Pour the filling over the crust and bake for an additional 30 to 35 minutes until set.
Allow bars to cool completely before slicing into squares.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American