Derby Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a delicious tradition that captures the spirit of the Kentucky Derby! This sweet and nutty pie, rich with chocolate and walnuts, has been a staple at the famous horse race since its creation in the 1950s. The combination of gooey chocolate and crunchy nuts creates a delightful texture that’s simply irresistible. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll understand why this pie is celebrated every year during the Derby. It’s the kind of dessert that brings people together, whether you’re cheering on your favorite horse or enjoying a cozy evening at home. So, let’s dive into this amazing recipe and make some Derby Pie magic happen in your kitchen!
Ingredients for Derby Pie
Gather these simple yet essential ingredients to create your own Derby Pie. Each element plays a vital role in achieving that perfect balance of flavors and textures.
- 1 unbaked pie crust
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best results. Trust me, the quality of your chocolate and nuts really shines through in this dish!
How to Prepare Derby Pie
Making Derby Pie is a breeze, and I’m here to guide you every step of the way! Let’s get started!
- First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because a hot oven helps the pie bake evenly and develop that lovely texture.
- Next, take your unbaked pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie pan. Gently press it into the pan, making sure it fits snugly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar and corn syrup. Then, pour in the melted butter and give it a good stir until everything is well blended.
- Now, crack in the eggs and add the vanilla extract. Mix it all together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Here comes the fun part! Stir in the chopped walnuts and semi-sweet chocolate chips until they’re evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Pour this delicious filling into your prepared pie crust, spreading it out evenly.
- Pop the pie into the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the filling is set and just slightly jiggly in the center—don’t worry, it will firm up as it cools!
- Once it’s done baking, let it cool before slicing. I know it’s hard to wait, but trust me, it’s worth it!
And there you have it—your very own Derby Pie ready to impress! Enjoy the aromas wafting through your kitchen as it bakes; it’s pure magic!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s quick to prepare—whip it up in just about 15 minutes!
- Super easy to make, even for beginner bakers—no fancy techniques required.
- Deliciously rich flavor that perfectly balances sweet chocolate and crunchy nuts.
- Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or just because you want a slice of heaven.
- It’s a classic dessert that sparks joy and evokes the spirit of the Kentucky Derby.
Tips for Success
To ensure your Derby Pie turns out perfectly every time, here are some of my favorite tips! First, keep an eye on the baking time; every oven is a little different, so start checking around the 50-minute mark. You want that center to be set but still slightly jiggly—it’ll firm up as it cools. If the edges of your pie crust start getting too dark, cover them with some foil to prevent burning.
When serving, I highly recommend pairing your pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The creamy texture complements the rich chocolate and crunchy walnuts beautifully! Also, don’t hesitate to let your pie cool completely before slicing; this helps it hold its shape better. Enjoying it warm is great, but it’s just as delicious at room temperature!
Variations of Derby Pie
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many delightful ways to customize your Derby Pie! One of my favorite twists is to swap out the walnuts for pecans or hazelnuts—both add a lovely flavor that pairs wonderfully with chocolate. You could even mix in some toasted coconut for a tropical vibe!
For those who love a bit of spice, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling; it gives the pie a warm, cozy flavor that’s perfect for fall gatherings. Want to elevate the chocolate experience? Try using dark chocolate chips or even a splash of bourbon for that classic Kentucky flair—just a tablespoon will do! The possibilities are endless, and I can promise you, each variation brings its own unique charm to this already fabulous dessert. Get creative and have fun with it!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional information for each slice of Derby Pie. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, but this will give you a general idea:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 28g
- Protein: 5g
This pie is definitely a treat, so enjoy it in moderation! It’s all about balance, right?
FAQ About Derby Pie
Got questions about Derby Pie? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I often hear:
Can I use a store-bought pie crust?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, a pre-made crust works perfectly. Just make sure it’s unbaked before filling it with that delicious mixture.
What’s the best way to serve Derby Pie?
Serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream is my favorite way! But it’s just as delightful at room temperature, making it perfect for gatherings.
Can I make Derby Pie ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftover Derby Pie can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. It makes for a delightful snack!
Is Derby Pie gluten-free?
If you use a gluten-free pie crust, then yes, Derby Pie can be made gluten-free! Just ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To keep your leftover Derby Pie fresh and delicious, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you want to savor it later, you can also freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw the pie in the fridge overnight.
For reheating, pop a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds to warm it up, or you can place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Enjoy that gooey chocolate goodness all over again!
Print
Derby Pie Delights: 7 Irresistible Secrets Unveiled
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Derby Pie is a chocolate and nut dessert traditionally served during the Kentucky Derby.
Ingredients
- 1 unbaked pie crust
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the unbaked pie crust in a 9-inch pie pan.
- In a bowl, mix sugar, corn syrup, and melted butter.
- Add eggs and vanilla extract, and mix well.
- Stir in chopped walnuts and chocolate chips.
- Pour the mixture into the pie crust.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until set.
- Cool before serving.
Notes
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
- Pair with vanilla ice cream for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: derby pie, chocolate pie, nut pie, Kentucky Derby dessert
