Kentucky Derby Bars

Name: Kentucky Derby Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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 melted butter; 4 large eggs; 2 cups chopped pecans; 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Published: July 3, 2025

by Emilia

Pinterest Facebook WhatsApp X Yummly

Celebrate the Kentucky Derby with these easy and delicious Kentucky Derby Bars. Packed with flavors of butter, eggs, pecans, and chocolate, these bars are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a Derby party or just craving a sweet treat, these bars deliver rich taste and delightful texture. Make them for a fun gathering or enjoy them as a personal indulgence!

Remember it later

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

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Delicious Flavor: The combination of chocolate and pecans creates a rich, nutty flavor that everyone will love.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
Versatile Treat: Great for parties, picnics, or just a cozy night in; these bars fit any occasion.
Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare these bars in advance and store them for later enjoyment.
Serves Many: This recipe yields 24 servings, making it ideal for sharing with friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on your Kentucky Derby Bars, gather your tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

Baking pan: The right size ensures even cooking and helps achieve the perfect bar texture.
Mixing bowl: A large bowl provides enough space for combining ingredients without spills.
Pastry blender: This tool makes cutting in butter easy, ensuring a sandy mixture for the crust.

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 your 13×9-inch baking pan with aluminum foil, allowing some excess to hang over the edges. Spray the foil with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

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

Now you’re ready to move on to creating that delightful filling!

How to Serve Kentucky Derby Bars

Serving Kentucky Derby Bars is a delightful experience that brings a taste of the South to your table. These sweet and nutty bars are perfect for sharing at gatherings, parties, or even a cozy night in. Here are some creative ways to enjoy them.

Pair with Whipped Cream

Top each bar with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for added richness and a light texture.

Serve with Vanilla Ice Cream

A warm Kentucky Derby Bar paired with vanilla ice cream creates a delicious contrast of temperatures and flavors.

Add Fresh Berries

Garnish with fresh raspberries or strawberries to add a tartness that balances the sweetness of the bars.

Drizzle with Caramel Sauce

A drizzle of caramel sauce enhances the flavor and adds an extra layer of indulgence.

Enjoy with Coffee or Tea

Pair these bars with your favorite coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.

Create a Dessert Platter

Combine Kentucky Derby Bars with other desserts like brownies or cookies for a festive dessert platter that’s sure to impress.

How to Perfect Kentucky Derby Bars

To ensure your Kentucky Derby Bars turn out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips.

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when preparing the crust to keep it tender.
Chill Before Cutting: Let the bars cool completely before cutting them into squares for cleaner edges.
Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on baking time; ovens vary, so check for doneness around the 15-minute mark.
Store Properly: Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.
Experiment with Nuts: Try using walnuts or pecans interchangeably based on your preference for different flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Kentucky Derby Bars

While Kentucky Derby Bars are delicious on their own, pairing them with complementary side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the bars.
Cheese Platter: Include a variety of cheeses such as sharp cheddar or creamy brie that contrasts well with the sweet flavors.
Chocolate Fondue: Serve alongside chocolate fondue for dipping strawberries or marshmallows, creating an interactive dessert experience.
Pecan Pie Ice Cream: This creamy, nutty ice cream mirrors the flavors in your bars and adds a fun twist to dessert time.
Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies: These cookies provide a refreshing minty contrast that pairs beautifully with the rich chocolate in the bars.
Coconut Macaroons: Chewy macaroons offer a different texture while complementing the nutty flavor of Kentucky Derby Bars.
Carrot Cake Bites: The spices in carrot cake add warmth that works well alongside these sweet bars.
Homemade Lemonade: A glass of refreshing lemonade can cleanse the palate between bites and enhance the overall dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Kentucky Derby Bars, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

Skipping the Cooling Time: Allowing your bars to cool completely before cutting is vital. This helps them set properly and ensures clean cuts.
Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Precision in measuring flour and sugar can make a big difference. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for accuracy.
Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can lead to dense bars instead of a light texture. Mix just until combined to maintain fluffiness.
Using Stale Nuts: Fresh pecans enhance flavor significantly. Always check the freshness of your nuts before using them in the recipe.
Neglecting the Baking Spray: Skipping nonstick spray on the foil can cause sticking issues. Always ensure your baking pan is well-prepared for easy removal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store Kentucky Derby Bars in an airtight container.
They will last for up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Kentucky Derby Bars

Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap.
Place wrapped bars in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Kentucky Derby Bars

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and warm bars for about 10 minutes.
Microwave: Heat individual bars on a microwave-safe plate for 15-20 seconds, checking frequently.
Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, covering it with a lid for even warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Kentucky Derby Bars that you may find helpful.

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 store leftover Kentucky Derby Bars?

Store leftover Kentucky Derby Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I customize my Kentucky Derby Bars?

Absolutely! You can add different nuts or use white chocolate chips instead of semisweet for a unique twist on this classic treat.

How do I prevent my bars from sticking to the pan?

Always use nonstick spray on your baking foil and let the bars cool completely before cutting them for easy removal from the pan.

Final Thoughts

Kentucky Derby Bars offer a delightful blend of flavors that makes them perfect for any gathering or celebration. Their versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on personal preference, ensuring every batch is uniquely delicious. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy these wonderful treats!

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

📖 Recipe Card