Kentucky Derby Pie
Kentucky Derby Pie is a rich and gooey dessert that’s famous for its combination of chocolate, pecans, and a buttery, brown sugar filling all baked inside a flaky pie crust.…
Tip: save now, cook later.Kentucky Derby Pie is a rich and gooey dessert that’s famous for its combination of chocolate, pecans, and a buttery, brown sugar filling all baked inside a flaky pie crust. It’s like a warm, sweet hug on a plate, with the perfect mix of crunchy nuts and melty chocolate that makes every bite so satisfying.
I love making Kentucky Derby Pie because it’s not only delicious but also really easy to throw together. The best part is watching it bubble up in the oven and fill the kitchen with that amazing smell of toasted pecans and vanilla sugar. I usually keep a bag of pecans and some chocolate chips on hand just for moments when I’m craving something cozy but don’t want to mess with a complicated recipe.
This pie is a classic for Derby Day celebrations, but honestly, I think it’s perfect any time of year when you want something special without a ton of fuss. I like to serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top – it melts just a little and makes everything feel extra comforting. It’s one of those desserts that always brings smiles and makes people ask for seconds, which is a great sign in my book!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pecans: Pecans give Kentucky Derby Pie its signature crunch and flavor. If you can’t find pecans, walnuts are a great substitute with a similar texture. For a nut-free version, try pumpkin seeds or omit nuts altogether.
Chocolate Chips: Semisweet chocolate chips add a rich, melty sweetness. You can swap these with milk chocolate chips for a sweeter pie or dark chocolate chips for a richer taste.
Butter: Melted unsalted butter brings moisture and richness. If you only have salted butter, reduce the added salt in the recipe. For a dairy-free alternative, try melted coconut oil, but it will change the flavor slightly.
Sugars: The combo of granulated and brown sugar creates a deep, caramel-like sweetness. Light brown sugar works best, but dark brown sugar can add a more intense molasses flavor. You can experiment with coconut sugar for a less processed option.
How Do You Get That Perfect Gooey Filling Without Overbaking?
The filling should be soft and slightly jiggly when you take it out of the oven, not fully firm. Here’s how to nail it:
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50–60 minutes.
- Check near the 50-minute mark—the edges should be set, and the center should wobble a bit.
- A toothpick inserted near the center might come out with some moist crumbs—that’s perfect.
- Let the pie cool completely; it will firm up and hold its shape better.
- Be careful not to overbake, or the pie will dry out and lose its gooey texture.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9-inch pie plate – perfect size for Kentucky Derby Pie and helps the crust bake evenly.
- Mixing bowls – you’ll need a large one for the filling and a smaller one for prep.
- Whisk – makes mixing the sugary filling smooth and easy.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your ingredients just right for the best flavor and texture.
- Wire rack – so the pie can cool properly without getting soggy on the bottom.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap pecans for walnuts for a slightly different nutty flavor and crunch.
- Add a splash of bourbon or vanilla bourbon extract to the filling for a classic Derby twist.
- Mix in white chocolate chips along with semisweet for a sweeter, creamier taste.
- Stir in dried cherries or cranberries to add a tart contrast to the sweet filling.
How to Make Kentucky Derby Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pie:
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
- 1 cup chopped pecans (plus extra for garnish if desired)
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For Serving:
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate syrup (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This pie takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 50 to 60 minutes to bake. Then, allow it to cool completely for the best texture, which can take about 1 hour. Total time is roughly 2 hours including cooling.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place your unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie plate and set it aside while you prepare the filling.
2. Add Pecans and Chocolate:
Sprinkle the chopped pecans and semisweet chocolate chips evenly over the bottom of the pie crust, creating a delicious base layer.
3. Mix the Filling:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, packed brown sugar, melted butter, flour, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Keep stirring until everything is smooth and well combined.
4. Assemble and Bake:
Pour the filling mixture over the pecans and chocolate in the pie shell. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes or until the crust is golden and the filling looks set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
5. Cool and Serve:
Remove the pie from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice and serve with whipped cream on top. Drizzle chocolate syrup over the whipped cream if you like a little extra sweetness.
Can I Use Store-Bought Pie Crust for Kentucky Derby Pie?
Absolutely! Using a pre-made pie crust is a convenient option that works perfectly for this recipe. Just be sure to follow the baking times closely, as some crusts may brown faster.
How Should I Store Leftover Kentucky Derby Pie?
Store leftover pie covered tightly with plastic wrap or foil in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or enjoy it cold — both are delicious!
Can I Make Kentucky Derby Pie Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the pie up to a day in advance. Bake it as directed, let it cool, then cover and refrigerate. Bring it to room temperature before serving or warm it slightly in the oven.
Is There an Alcohol Ingredient in Traditional Kentucky Derby Pie?
Some recipes include bourbon for added flavor, but this particular recipe does not. If you’d like, you can add 1 to 2 tablespoons of bourbon to the filling mixture for that classic Derby touch.