If ever there was a dessert worth celebrating, it’s Derby Pie. This luscious treat combines the richness of chocolate, the nuttiness of pecans or walnuts, and a decadent, gooey filling held lovingly inside a flaky crust — all ready to crown your next gathering, holiday, or cozy night in. Whether you’re channeling Kentucky Derby traditions or craving a “wow” ending to Sunday supper, Derby Pie delivers with both nostalgia and irresistible flavor. It’s easier to make than you might guess, and always a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Derby Pie hinges on just a handful of pantry staples, and each one plays an essential part in crafting the pie’s signature flavor and texture. These building blocks come together with hardly any fuss, proving that baking can be both simple and spectacular.
- Unbaked 9-inch pie crust: The buttery base that cradles all the gooey, chocolaty deliciousness; store-bought or homemade both work great.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted and cooled): For rich flavor and that signature velvety texture — melting it first blends it seamlessly into the filling.
- Granulated sugar (3/4 cup): Lends classic sweetness and balances the deeper notes from the brown sugar.
- Light brown sugar (3/4 cup, packed): Boosts caramel flavor and gives the pie a slight chew.
- Large eggs (3): The key to that silky-smooth, custard-like filling; they hold everything together.
- All-purpose flour (1/2 cup): Adds just enough structure so the filling sets without turning cakey.
- Bourbon (1 tbsp, optional): A classic Kentucky touch that adds warmth and complexity; skip it if baking for kids or alcohol-free folks.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Rounds out the flavors for a crave-worthy depth.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): Essential for keeping the pie from tasting too sweet and enhancing all the flavors.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 cup): Melts into pockets of chocolatey goodness — don’t be shy!
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (1 cup): Classic Derby Pie texture and crunch; toasted nuts take it over the top, but raw is perfect too.
How to Make Derby Pie
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s always a good idea to preheat right away, so your oven is perfectly hot and ready for your Derby Pie. If your pie crust is refrigerated, let it sit out a few minutes as your oven warms to take the chill off.
Step 2: Mix Butter and Sugars
In your largest mixing bowl, combine the cooled melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Whisk until you have a smooth, glossy mixture. This dissolves the sugars a bit and ensures you won’t have any gritty spots in the finished pie.
Step 3: Add Eggs One at a Time
Add the eggs, one at a time, to your sugar-butter mixture. Beat well after each addition — the mixture will turn luscious and creamy. This step helps create the signature silky filling Derby Pie is famous for.
Step 4: Stir in Dry Ingredients and Flavorings
Mound in the all-purpose flour, pour in the bourbon (if using), vanilla extract, and sprinkle over the salt. Mix until everything is just combined. The flour will give the pie structure without making it too dense, and the flavorings tie everything together beautifully.
Step 5: Fold in Chocolate and Nuts
Switch to a spatula and gently fold in the chocolate chips and your choice of chopped walnuts or pecans. Folding instead of stirring will keep your Derby Pie batter thick and loaded with gooey, chunky surprises in every bite.
Step 6: Fill the Crust and Bake
Pour the mixture into the unbaked pie crust and smooth the top gently with a spatula to distribute the filling evenly. Slide the pie into your preheated oven and bake for 50 to 55 minutes. Look for a golden brown top and a slightly puffed, set center. A toothpick inserted should come out with moist crumbs – don’t overbake, or the filling may lose its gorgeous goo.
Step 7: Let It Cool
Once baked, allow the Derby Pie to cool completely on a rack. This step is key for slicing neat wedges, as the filling continues to set as it cools. Patience pays off, promise!
How to Serve Derby Pie
Garnishes
Top each slice with a cloud of freshly whipped cream or a brilliant scoop of vanilla ice cream. A sprinkle of extra chopped nuts or a shower of shaved chocolate can take your Derby Pie from delightful to downright unforgettable. If you like, drizzle a little warm caramel or a splash of bourbon sauce over the top for a dessert that rivals any bakery.
Side Dishes
Derby Pie stands beautifully on its own, but it also plays so well with others. Serve alongside fresh berries, a strong cup of black coffee, or even sweetened cold brew for contrast. For spring and summer gatherings, a crisp fruit salad or chilled mint tea makes a refreshing partner.
Creative Ways to Present
Instead of the traditional wedges, consider slicing your Derby Pie into bite-sized bars for a party platter. For a show-stopper, bake in mini tart shells for individual pies, perfect for celebrations or dessert buffets. You can even crumble leftovers into parfaits layered with whipped cream and fresh berries—pure genius.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your Derby Pie has cooled, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Leave it at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for up to four days. The flavors deepen by the next day, making it a fabulous make-ahead dessert.
Freezing
To freeze Derby Pie, wrap individual slices or the entire pie in a double layer of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of foil. Store in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving for a just-baked taste anytime.
Reheating
If you crave your pie warmed, reheat slices in the oven at 300°F for 10 to 15 minutes, or microwave briefly on medium power. Just remember: warming brings the chocolate to melty perfection, especially paired with ice cream.
FAQs
Can I make Derby Pie nut-free?
Absolutely! Skip the nuts entirely and perhaps shave a few minutes off the baking time, as the filling cooks a little faster without them. The pie won’t lose its gooey magic and is perfect for guests with nut allergies.
What type Dessert
Semi-sweet chocolate chips are a classic for Derby Pie, but dark chocolate chips or chunks add a grown-up richness. You can even swirl two kinds of chocolate for deeper flavor complexity.
How do I know when my Derby Pie is done?
The top should be golden and slightly crackly, and a toothpick inserted near the center needs to come out with just a few moist crumbs. If it’s wet, give it a few more minutes, but don’t wait for it to come out clean—the gooey center is the heart of Derby Pie!
Is the bourbon flavor strong?
The tablespoon of bourbon brings subtle warmth without overpowering the pie. If you’re not a bourbon fan or sharing the pie with kids, you can simply leave it out altogether and the Derby Pie will still taste incredible.
Can I use a store-bought crust?
Definitely! A good quality store-bought crust keeps things simple, especially on a busy baking day. Just make sure it’s unbaked when you pour in the filling. If you love baking from scratch, homemade is always welcome, too.
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason Derby Pie has been delighting dessert tables for generations — it’s simple, decadent, and so much fun to bake (and eat!) with loved ones. Don’t wait for a special occasion to try it; whip up this classic whenever you crave comfort, chocolate, and a little Southern charm. Happy baking, and may every slice be the highlight of your table!
Print
Derby Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American (Southern)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich, decadent flavors of a classic Derby Pie, a beloved Southern dessert featuring a buttery crust filled with a gooey mixture of chocolate, nuts, and a hint of bourbon. Perfect for any occasion, this pie is sure to impress your guests with its irresistible taste.
Ingredients
Pie Crust:
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp bourbon (optional)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the filling: In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well. Stir in flour, bourbon, vanilla, and salt until combined. Fold in chocolate chips and nuts.
- Fill the crust: Pour the mixture into the unbaked pie crust and spread evenly.
- Bake: Bake for 50-55 minutes until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean.
- Cool and serve: Let the pie cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
- For a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts and slightly reduce the baking time.
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