If you’ve never tried Derby Pie, you’re in for a seriously decadent treat. Picture this: a buttery, flaky pie crust brimming with gooey chocolate chips and toasted pecans or walnuts, all held together by a soft, chewy, almost cookie-like filling. Born in Kentucky, this iconic dessert is often enjoyed during Derby season, but honestly, it deserves a seat at your table any time you crave something irresistibly rich and a little bit nostalgic. Whether you keep it traditional or add your own twist, Derby Pie brings a satisfying combo of crunch, melt, and gooey chocolate to every bite—get ready for dessert bliss!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind Derby Pie lies in using simple, reliable ingredients that blend together for unbelievable flavor and texture. Each element is essential: from the flaky crust to the crunchy nuts and melty chocolate, every bite delivers something special. Here’s what you’ll need to make the ultimate Derby Pie—and a quick tip unique to each ingredient!
- Unbaked 9-inch pie crust: Use a homemade or store-bought crust—just make sure it’s unbaked, so it crisps up beautifully in the oven.
- Unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled (1/2 cup): Butter brings richness and helps create the pie’s signature chewy texture.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the filling and ensures a lovely golden top as it bakes.
- Large eggs (2): Eggs bind everything together and give the filling that pudding-like softness.
- All-purpose flour (1/2 cup): Just the right amount to thicken the filling and hold it all in place.
- Bourbon (1 tablespoon, optional): This adds a subtle warmth and depth—skip or swap for milk or coffee if you prefer.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Vanilla brings out the chocolate and nutty flavors for extra richness.
- Semisweet chocolate chips (1 cup): Melting into bittersweet puddles, these are the heart of Derby Pie decadence.
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (1 cup): Toasted and crunchy, nuts add texture and that signature Southern touch.
- Pinch of salt: Just a little salt makes all the flavors pop, balancing sweetness and richness.
How to Make Derby Pie
Step 1: Prep Your Kitchen
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Go ahead and set your unbaked pie crust in a 9-inch pie plate, crimping the edges if you want that perfect homemade look. Let your melted butter cool just slightly to avoid scrambling the eggs.
Step 2: Mix Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and glossy. This step sets the stage for that incredible chewy center, so don’t rush—make sure everything is completely blended.
Step 3: Add the Eggs
Crack the eggs in one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Taking your time ensures a custardy, luxurious filling instead of streaks of egg, and gives Derby Pie that plush, cake-like bite.
Step 4: Stir in Dry Ingredients and Flavorings
Now, stir in the flour, bourbon (if using), vanilla extract, and a generous pinch of salt. Mix until the batter is smooth and no lumps remain. The bourbon is optional, but it really does give the Derby Pie a Kentucky flair.
Step 5: Fold in Chocolate and Nuts
Switch to a spatula and gently fold in the semisweet chocolate chips and chopped walnuts or pecans. Folding rather than stirring keeps the nuts whole, so you’ll get big hearty bites throughout the pie.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Pour the filling into your prepared pie crust, smoothing the top so everything bakes evenly. Pop it in the oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick poked in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs attached. Don’t overbake—it should be just set in the center for the ultimate gooey texture.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Let your Derby Pie cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. This is the hardest part, but it’s worth the wait—the pie sets as it cools, ensuring neat slices instead of a chocolatey mess.
How to Serve Derby Pie
Garnishes
Top each wedge with a generous scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a swirl of whipped cream. For a classic touch, you can also sprinkle a few extra chocolate chips or chopped nuts over the top. A drizzle of warm chocolate or caramel sauce never hurts, especially if you want to take Derby Pie over the top for a special occasion.
Side Dishes
Derby Pie pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or espresso—perfect for balancing out the rich, chocolatey sweetness. If you’d like something lighter, serve with a crisp, fresh fruit salad for contrast. And for Kentucky Derby festivities, why not include a glass of bourbon or mint julep alongside?
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the pie into petite squares or triangles for a dessert tray—these make fantastic party bites! For a playful twist, layer cubes of Derby Pie with whipped cream and berries for an easy trifle. Or, warm individual slices and serve them in a bowl with scoops of ice cream for Derby Pie à la mode sundaes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, you can store leftover Derby Pie covered at room temperature for up to two days, or in the fridge for up to five days. For the best texture, keep it loosely covered to avoid condensation but tight enough to prevent drying out. It’s perfect for making ahead if you’re hosting a gathering.
Freezing
Derby Pie freezes surprisingly well! Wrap cooled slices or the whole pie (once completely cooled) tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil. Freeze for up to three months. When you’re craving a chocolatey fix, just thaw slices in the fridge overnight.
Reheating
To bring that fresh-baked magic back, warm individual slices of Derby Pie in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds, or heat larger pieces in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes. Serve warm for gooey chocolate chips and that irresistible fresh-from-the-oven aroma.
FAQs
What kind of nuts taste best in Derby Pie?
Both pecans and walnuts are classic—pecans bring a sweet, buttery flavor, while walnuts add a slightly earthy, robust note. Pick your favorite or mix them together for great texture and depth!
Can I make Derby Pie without bourbon?
Absolutely! The bourbon adds a uniquely Southern touch, but your Derby Pie will be just as delicious if you leave it out or replace it with a splash of milk, coffee, or even almond extract to add depth.
How do I know when Derby Pie is done baking?
Check for a golden-brown top and a toothpick inserted in the center—if it comes out with moist crumbs (but not raw batter), you’re good! Remember, it will continue to set as it cools, so don’t worry if it’s slightly jiggly when you take it out.
Can I use a store-bought pie crust?
Of course! A high-quality store-bought crust is a wonderful time-saver and still lets the rich, chocolatey spirit of Derby Pie shine through. Just make sure it’s unbaked when you fill it.
Can I make Derby Pie ahead for a party?
Definitely—Derby Pie tastes even better after a day as the flavors meld together beautifully. Make it the night before, cover, and chill. The next day, slice and serve whenever you’re ready to wow your guests.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dessert guaranteed to steal the show, Derby Pie is a must-make. It’s a wonderful blend of homey comfort and chocolatey luxury, all wrapped up in a crispy crust. Don’t just save it for the Kentucky Derby—this pie’s irresistible flavor is welcome at any celebration (and just as lovely for a quiet night in!). Give it a try and watch everyone swoon over your new signature dessert!
Print
Derby Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of a classic Derby Pie, a beloved Southern dessert featuring a luscious mix of chocolate chips, nuts, and a hint of bourbon all nestled in a flaky pie crust.
Ingredients
Pie:
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon bourbon (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Mix butter and sugar: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until well combined.
- Add eggs and dry ingredients: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the flour, bourbon (if using), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
- Combine chocolate and nuts: Fold in the chocolate chips and chopped nuts.
- Prepare the pie: Pour the mixture into the unbaked pie crust and smooth the top.
- Bake: Bake for 45–50 minutes, or 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. Serve plain or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Notes
- Bourbon adds a classic Kentucky flavor, but you can leave it out or replace it with a splash of milk or coffee.
- You can use either walnuts or pecans depending on your preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 38 g
- Sodium: 140 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 52 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
