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, parties, or simply a delightful treat at home, these bars capture the spirit of the Derby in every bite.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip up these bars in no time.
Rich Flavor: The combination of dark corn syrup, brown sugar, and chocolate creates a rich and satisfying taste that everyone will love.
Versatile Treat: These bars can be enjoyed on various occasions, from Derby Day celebrations to holiday gatherings.
Crowd-Pleaser: With 24 servings in one batch, they are perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Gorgeous Presentation: Their beautiful layers of chocolate and nuts make them visually appealing for any dessert table.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes baking Kentucky Derby Bars easier and more fun. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

13×9-inch baking pan
Aluminum foil
Nonstick cooking spray
Mixing bowls
Whisk or pastry blender

Importance of Each Tool

Baking Pan: A sturdy pan ensures even baking and helps maintain the shape of your bars.
Aluminum Foil: It makes cleanup a breeze by allowing you to lift the bars out easily after they cool.
Whisk or Pastry Blender: These tools help combine ingredients smoothly for a consistent texture.

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, letting excess extend over the sides. 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 or your fingers, cut in the softened butter until the mixture resembles sandy crumbs. Firmly press this mixture into the bottom of your prepared baking pan. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes or until lightly browned.

Now you’re ready to enjoy this delightful recipe! Stay tuned for more steps on how to complete these Kentucky Derby Bars.

How to Serve Kentucky Derby Bars

Kentucky Derby Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re celebrating the Derby or simply indulging in a sweet snack, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Whipped Cream

Serve warm with a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top for added richness.

A La Mode

Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream; the cold ice cream perfectly contrasts the warm bars.

Drizzled with Chocolate

Drizzle melted chocolate over the bars before serving to amplify the chocolate flavor.

Topped with Pecans

Sprinkle additional chopped pecans on top for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.

With Fresh Berries

Serve alongside fresh strawberries or raspberries to add a fruity touch and balance the sweetness.

How to Perfect Kentucky Derby Bars

To achieve the ultimate Kentucky Derby Bars, follow these expert tips for a perfect bake every time.

Use room temperature ingredients – Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
Don’t overmix the crust – Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to a tough crust.
Allow to cool completely – Let the bars cool in the pan before cutting them to ensure clean slices.
Store properly – Keep leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.
Experiment with flavors – Add a splash of bourbon to the filling for an authentic Derby twist.
Cut into small squares – These bars are rich, so smaller portions are ideal for sharing.

Best Side Dishes for Kentucky Derby Bars

When serving Kentucky Derby Bars, consider pairing them with side dishes that complement their rich flavors. Here are some great options:

Mint Julep
A classic cocktail made with bourbon, fresh mint, and sugar, perfect for sipping while enjoying dessert.
Fruit Salad
A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances out the sweetness of the bars wonderfully.
Cheese Platter
A selection of cheeses like sharp cheddar or creamy brie provides a savory contrast to the sweet bars.
Pecan Pie Bites
Miniature versions of pecan pie offer a delightful addition that aligns with the bar’s flavors.
Vanilla Ice Cream Sundae
Top your sundae with chocolate syrup and nuts for an indulgent treat that pairs well with Derby Bars.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries
These elegant treats add a touch of romance and complement the chocolate notes in the bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

Skipping the crust preparation: A solid crust is key for the texture. Make sure to press it firmly into the pan before baking.
Using cold butter: Cold butter can lead to a crumbly crust. Always use softened butter for a smooth and even mixture.
Overbaking the bars: Overbaking can make your bars dry. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the oven once lightly browned.
Not measuring ingredients properly: Accurate measurements ensure the perfect balance of flavors. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups.
Ignoring cooling time: Cutting into warm bars can lead to messy slices. Allow them to cool completely before cutting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Kentucky Derby Bars

Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Kentucky Derby Bars

Oven: Preheat to 350°F and place bars on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until warm.
Microwave: Heat each bar on low for 15-20 seconds or until warmed through.
Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to your questions about Kentucky Derby Bars below!

What are Kentucky Derby Bars?

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

How do I make Kentucky Derby Bars gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Kentucky Derby Bars, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Yes! You can replace pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile in your Kentucky Derby Bars.

How do I store leftover Kentucky Derby Bars?

Store leftover Kentucky Derby Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.

Final Thoughts

Kentucky Derby Bars offer a wonderful mix of flavors and textures that everyone will love. They’re perfect for gatherings or as a sweet treat at home. Feel free to customize them with different nuts or chocolates based on your preferences!

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Kentucky Derby Bars

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Author: Jessica
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: Approximately 24 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Kentucky Derby Bars, a perfect dessert inspired by the iconic Derby Pie. These bars are a delectable combination of rich chocolate, crunchy pecans, and a creamy filling that captures the spirit of Derby Day. With their buttery crust and luscious layers, they are ideal for parties, celebrations, or enjoying as a sweet treat at home. Easy to make and visually appealing, these bars offer a crowd-pleasing dessert option that everyone will adore.

Ingredients

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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 sandy crumbs. Firmly press into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 15 to 18 minutes until lightly browned.
In another bowl, mix brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, eggs, chopped pecans, and chocolate chips until well combined. Pour over the baked crust.
Bake for an additional 25 to 30 minutes or until set. Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American