Kentucky Derby Pie Recipe

If you’re looking for a pie that’s got a little bit of everything, you know, a bit sweet, nutty, and with a kick of chocolate, this Derby Pie is the dessert for you! Serve it with vanilla ice cream scope, and you’re ready for the Derby!

With a buttery and flaky crust with a nutty and chocolaty filling, this Derby pie recipe is surprisingly easy to make. You can use a ready-made pie crust from the store to make this homemade version. The filling is a simple mixture of corn syrup, sugar, butter, and eggs. Add chocolate chips and chopped pecans to make it extra delicious.

What Is Original Derby Pie?

The Melrose Inn in Prospect, Kentucky, came up with a yummy recipe called Derby Pie in 1950. The Kern family, including Walter, Leaudra, and their son George, were the ones who made this special pie. Derby Pie is a tasty treat that has a filling made of chocolate and walnuts. It’s all wrapped up in a pie crust made of pastry dough. It’s a real delight to eat!

When the Kern family couldn’t agree on a name, they wrote different suggestions on paper and put them in a hat. They randomly picked a name from the hat, and that’s how it became “Derby Pie.”

The pie became so popular that the Kerns even trademarked the name to protect it. So now, whenever you hear the name “Derby Pie,” you know it’s a special dessert loved by many!

Other Name Of Derby Pie

Derby Pie is a trademarked name, so using any other specific name for the same recipe would be against the trademark laws. However, some may refer to similar desserts such as “Kentucky Pie” or “Chocolate Nut Pie” as alternatives to Derby Pie. These names are not official substitutes but are sometimes used informally to describe desserts resembling Derby Pie.

Ingredients Of Derby Pie

Pastry Pie Crust: The pastry pie crust serves as the base and outer shell of the pie. It is typically made from flour, fat (such as butter or shortening), and water, creating a flaky and crispy crust.

Light Corn Syrup: Light corn syrup is a cornstarch sweetener containing glucose and fructose. It helps to add sweetness, moisture, and a slightly sticky texture to the filling.

Granulated Sugar: Granulated sugar is a common sweetener used in baking. It adds sweetness and contributes to the overall flavor and texture of the pie filling.

Eggs: Eggs act as a binding agent in the filling. They also add moisture, structure, and richness to the pie.

Chocolate Chips: Chocolate chips are small morsels that melt and create pockets of rich, gooey chocolate within the pie. They add a delightful chocolate flavor and texture to each bite.

Chopped Pecans: Pecans are a nut commonly used in Derby Pie. They have a slightly sweet and buttery flavor and provide a satisfying crunch to the pie. Chopped pecans are scattered throughout the filling, adding a nutty element to the overall taste.

Butter: Melted butter adds richness and moisture to the pie filling. It helps to create a smooth and creamy texture while contributing to the overall flavor.

Vanilla Extract: Vanilla extract is a flavoring derived from vanilla beans. It enhances the sweetness and adds a warm and aromatic flavor to the pie.

Tips And Tricks For Making the Best Derby Pie

Experiment with different types of chocolate, such as dark chocolate or milk chocolate, to vary the flavor and richness of the pie.

Add a pinch of salt to the filling mixture to balance the sweetness and enhance the overall flavor.

If you prefer a gooier texture, slightly underbake the pie by reducing the baking time by a few minutes.

Garnish the pie with additional chocolate chips and whole pecans before baking for an attractive presentation.

Serve the pie with a drizzle of warm caramel sauce or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for extra sweetness.

Can You Switch Pie Crust?

Yes, you can switch the pie crust in a Derby Pie recipe. While the traditional recipe calls for a pastry pie crust, you can experiment with alternative crusts, such as graham cracker or cookie crust, to add a different flavor or texture. Adjust the baking time and temperature accordingly based on your chosen specific crust.

Can You Use Other Nuts In Kentucky Derby Pie?

Yes, you can use other nuts in Kentucky Derby Pie. While the original recipe calls for walnuts, you can experiment with nuts like pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts to add flavor and texture to the pie. Just chop them to a similar size for even distribution throughout the filling.

How To Serve Kentucky Derby Pie?

These serving suggestions can be mixed and matched based on personal preferences and creativity. Enjoy your Kentucky Derby Pie in whichever way you find most enjoyable!

• Classic Slice: Serve a slice of Kentucky Derby Pie as a delicious dessert, allowing the rich chocolate and nut flavors to shine.
• À la Mode: Pair a slice of warm Kentucky Derby Pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful combination of warm and cold textures and flavors.
• Whipped Cream Topping: Top each Kentucky Derby Pie slice with whipped cream for a creamy and light contrast to the rich and sweet filling.
• Drizzled Sauce: Enhance the presentation and taste by drizzling warm caramel or chocolate sauce over the pie slice, adding an extra layer of sweetness and visual appeal.

Can You Make Derby Pie Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can make Derby Pie ahead of time. Prepare the pie as instructed, but cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil instead of baking it and store it in the refrigerator.

When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the pie from the fridge, uncover it, and bake it according to the recipe instructions. This allows you to prepare the pie three days in advance and have it freshly baked and ready to enjoy later.

What Is The Difference Between Original Kentucky Derby Pie And Derby Pie?

The main difference between the original Kentucky Derby Pie and Derby Pie is the choice of nuts. The original Kentucky Derby Pie, trademarked by the Kern family, traditionally uses walnuts and chocolate chips, eggs, sugar, and butter in its filling.

The Derby Pie recipe typically includes a combination of pecans, chocolate chips, sugar, eggs, and butter.

Both are known for their rich, gooey fillings with a distinct chocolaty and nutty taste, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors to delight your taste buds.

Proper Storage Of Kentucky Derby Pie

Room Temperature: Store the pie at room temperature, tightly covered or wrapped in plastic or aluminum foil, for up to 2 days. Ensure it is stored in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight or heat sources.

Refrigerator: If you need to store the pie longer, you can refrigerate it. Cover it well and store it in the refrigerator for 4-5 days. This helps to keep the pie fresh and prevent any spoilage.

Freezer: To store the pie for an extended period, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and freeze it. It can be stored in the freezer for 2-3 months. Thaw the pie in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Slicing: If you store individual slices, wrap each with plastic wrap or place them in separate airtight containers. This allows for easier and more convenient portioning when serving.

Reheating: If desired, you can reheat individual slices of pie in the microwave for a few seconds or in a preheated oven at a low temperature for a short period until warmed through. This helps to restore some of the original freshness and enhances the taste.