Derby Pie Recipe

Derby Pie is a rich, Southern dessert that brings together chocolate, pecans, and a buttery pie crust in every irresistible slice. Originally rooted in Kentucky Derby tradition, it’s now a favorite across the U.S. This article guides you through the perfect derby pie recipe, ingredient tips, baking methods, storage, and serving ideas.

What is Derby Pie?

History and Origins of Derby Pie

The Derby Pie recipe was first created in Kentucky by the Kern family in the 1950s. Known for its secret blend of chocolate, nuts, and vanilla, the dessert quickly became iconic. Though the name is trademarked, similar pies have become popular nationwide, especially around the Kentucky Derby.

Why Derby Pie is Popular at the Kentucky Derby

Derby Pie’s popularity comes from its bold, comforting flavors. It’s a must-serve dessert during Derby season, but it’s just as welcome at any dinner table. The pie’s gooey chocolate base, nutty crunch, and flaky crust make it a Southern staple and a top-tier crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients for the Perfect Derby Pie Recipe

Classic Derby Pie Ingredients Explained

To create the most flavorful and authentic derby pie recipe, quality ingredients are key. Each one plays a unique role in building texture and depth:

• Unsalted Butter (113 grams): Melted and cooled butter forms the rich base and helps blend the flavors together seamlessly.
• Brown Sugar (220 grams, about 1 cup): Adds sweetness and molasses notes, giving the pie its signature gooey filling.
• Large Eggs (2, approx. 100 grams): Bind everything together and contribute to that custard-like consistency.
• Vanilla Extract (4 grams, 1 teaspoon): Brings warmth and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• All-Purpose Flour (80 grams, scant 2/3 cup): Helps thicken the filling and balance out the sugar and butter.
• Salt (2 grams, 1/4 teaspoon): A small amount elevates the sweetness and deepens the chocolate flavor.
• Chopped Pecans (115 grams, about 1 cup): Provide a crunchy texture that contrasts the smooth chocolate base.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (200 grams, about 1 1/4 cups): These melt into gooey pockets of chocolate, delivering a rich and luxurious mouthfeel.
• 9- or 10-inch Pie Crust: You can use a store-bought crust for convenience or go for a homemade version for extra flakiness and flavor.

These ingredients come together to create a dessert that’s both simple and sophisticated. It’s a pie that feels like a celebration, even if it’s just a weekday treat.

Optional Additions and Ingredient Substitutions

You can tailor the derby pie recipe to suit your taste or pantry:

• Walnuts instead of pecans: A common swap that still delivers crunch.
• Dark chocolate chips or chunks: For a more intense chocolate flavor.
• Espresso powder (1/2 tsp): Enhances the chocolate depth without overpowering the pie.
• Coconut flakes or toffee bits: For texture and a caramel-like sweetness.

Derby Pie Recipe

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• Author: Kaylee
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 12 slices 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This classic Derby Pie recipe blends gooey chocolate, crunchy pecans, and a buttery crust into a rich, Southern-style dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.

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Ingredients

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113 grams unsalted butter, melted and cooled

220 grams brown sugar (about 1 cup)

2 large eggs (about 100 grams)

4 grams vanilla extract (about 1 teaspoon)

80 grams all-purpose flour (scant 2/3 cup)

2 grams salt (about 1/4 teaspoon)

115 grams chopped pecans (about 1 cup)

200 grams semi-sweet chocolate chips (about 1 1/4 cups)

1 9- or 10-inch pie crust, homemade or store-bought

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350ºF.

2. Roll out your pie crust into a 9 or 10 inch pie plate. Set aside.

3. In a medium bowl, stir together the melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and thick.

4. Add flour and salt. Mix until fully combined.

5. Stir in chopped pecans and chocolate chips.

6. Pour mixture into the pie crust and spread evenly.

7. Bake for 50–55 minutes until the center is set but slightly jiggly.

8. Cool completely before slicing. Serve with whipped cream if desired.

Notes

Pie can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.

Can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in refrigerator before reheating.

Use a sourdough crust for a tangy flavor contrast.

Do not overbake; center should be set but still moist.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Category: Pie Recipes
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 402
• Sugar: 24g
• Sodium: 142mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0.3g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 52mg

How to Make Derby Pie Step-by-Step

Making the perfect derby pie recipe is surprisingly simple. With just a few bowls and basic tools, you can create a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s rich, gooey, and full of chocolate-pecan flavor.

Preparing the Pie Crust

You can use either a homemade or store-bought pie crust, depending on time and preference. If you’re going homemade, try a sourdough crust for a tangy contrast to the sweet filling.

Steps to prepare the crust:

1. Roll out your pie dough evenly and carefully transfer it into a 9- or 10-inch pie plate.
2. Press the dough gently into the plate, making sure there are no air bubbles.
3. Trim the excess around the edges, then crimp or flute as desired.
4. Set aside. No need to par-bake—the filling will bake right in.

Mixing the Filling and Assembling the Pie

This part comes together in minutes and requires only a spoon or spatula—no electric mixer needed.

1. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the melted and cooled butter, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture becomes thick and creamy.
2. Add Dry Ingredients: Sprinkle in the flour and salt. Mix until completely combined. The mixture should be smooth and slightly sticky.
3. Add the Mix-ins: Stir in the chopped pecans and semi-sweet chocolate chips.
4. Assemble: Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust. Use a spatula to smooth it into an even layer.

Once assembled, your pie is ready to bake—next, we’ll get into the best tips for baking it just right.

Baking Tips and Temperature Guidelines

Baking a derby pie recipe to perfection means striking the right balance between a soft, gooey center and a firm, golden top. These baking tips ensure your pie comes out just right every time.

How Long to Bake Derby Pie

• Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Make sure your oven is fully heated before placing the pie inside to ensure even baking.
• Bake for 50–55 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are set and the top is golden brown with a slight jiggle in the center.
• If your oven tends to run hot, check the pie around the 45-minute mark. You want a soft center, but avoid a runny texture.

Use a rack in the center of the oven for best airflow. Avoid opening the oven too often, as this can cause the center to sink or bake unevenly.

Signs Your Derby Pie is Done

A perfectly baked derby pie has:

• A slightly puffed top with deep golden color
• A gentle jiggle in the center—not a wobbly mess
• Crisp edges where the crust meets the filling
• No visible raw batter or loose spots

If the center looks liquid, leave it in for another 5–10 minutes, checking carefully. Once out of the oven, let the pie cool completely in the dish. This helps it set up properly and makes slicing easier.

To avoid overbaking, insert a knife about 1 inch from the center—it should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.

Homemade Pie Crust vs Store-Bought Options

One of the most important decisions in any derby pie recipe is choosing your crust. A good crust can elevate your pie from simply sweet to unforgettable. Whether you’re in a time crunch or want to bake completely from scratch, here’s how both crust options stack up.

Pros and Cons of Each

Homemade Pie Crust

Pros:

• Flavor: Richer, buttery taste you can customize.
• Texture: Flakier and more tender when made right.
• Control: You decide what goes in—no preservatives or fillers.

Cons:

• Time: Requires chilling, rolling, and shaping.
• Skill: Takes practice to get the right texture without overworking.

Store-Bought Pie Crust

Pros:

• Convenience: No prep, just unroll and use.
• Speed: Saves time and effort, perfect for last-minute baking.

Cons:

• Flavor: Often less buttery or flaky.
• Texture: May be more crumbly or tough depending on brand.

Both options work well, and the filling is the star here. If you go store-bought, choose a high-quality crust from the refrigerated or frozen section.

Sourdough Pie Crust and Other Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous or love tangy flavors, a sourdough pie crust adds depth that contrasts beautifully with the sweet, gooey filling. It also pairs well with the toasted pecans and chocolate.

Other creative crust ideas:

• Chocolate crust: A fun twist for chocolate lovers.
• Nut-based crust: Use ground almonds or pecans mixed with butter for a gluten-free alternative.
• Oat crust: Adds a rustic texture and hearty flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Derby Pie

A warm slice of derby pie recipe is already a showstopper, but how you serve it can make all the difference. Whether you’re dressing it up for a holiday dinner or enjoying a simple slice on a weeknight, these suggestions will help you make the most of this rich, gooey dessert.

Best Toppings and Accompaniments

While derby pie is full of bold flavors on its own, adding a cool or creamy contrast enhances each bite. Here are some favorite pairings:

• Freshly Whipped Cream: A light, airy topping that cuts through the richness.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold, creamy texture pairs beautifully with the warm filling.
• Drizzle of Chocolate Sauce: For chocolate lovers, this adds an extra layer of decadence.
• Caramel Swirl: A salty caramel drizzle balances the sweetness of the chocolate and pecans.
• Toasted Pecans on Top: Add crunch and presentation appeal.

Want something more rustic? Serve your slice with a dusting of powdered sugar and a side of fresh berries.

How to Slice and Present Derby Pie

Slicing derby pie can be tricky due to its gooey center, but with a few tips, you’ll get clean, even servings every time.

Follow these tips for clean slices:

1. Cool completely before cutting: Allow at least 2 hours after baking for the pie to set. This ensures it firms up and holds its shape.
2. Use a sharp, thin-bladed knife: Wipe the blade between cuts for neat slices.
3. Cut into 12 even pieces: Derby pie is rich, so thinner slices go a long way.

To dress it up for guests:

• Plate it on a white dessert dish with a dollop of whipped cream.
• Add a sprig of mint or sprinkle of shaved chocolate for garnish.
• For an elegant touch, place the slice over a swirl of raspberry coulis.

Storing and Reheating Derby Pie

Properly storing your derby pie recipe ensures every leftover slice stays as delicious as the first. Whether you’re making it ahead for a gathering or saving extras for later, these tips will help maintain its rich texture and flavor.

How to Store Leftovers Properly

Derby pie keeps well thanks to its dense, custardy filling. Here’s how to store it:

• Room Temperature: Cover loosely with foil or plastic wrap and store at room temperature for up to 2 days. This works best if your kitchen stays cool and dry.
• Refrigerator: For longer storage, wrap the pie tightly and keep it in the fridge for up to 5 days. The filling may firm up slightly when cold but softens quickly when warmed.
• Freezer: To freeze, wrap the pie or individual slices in plastic wrap, then again in foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Use airtight containers when possible to protect the pie from absorbing fridge odors.

Reheating Tips Without Losing Texture

Derby pie reheats beautifully when done right. You want to restore its warm, gooey center without drying it out or making the crust soggy.

To reheat individual slices:

• Microwave: Heat one slice for 15–20 seconds. Cover loosely to avoid moisture loss.
• Oven: Place slices on a baking sheet, cover loosely with foil, and warm at 300ºF for 10–15 minutes.

To reheat the whole pie:

• Preheat oven to 300ºF, cover the pie loosely with foil, and heat for 20–25 minutes.
• Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Avoid overheating, which can dry out the edges or make the chocolate grainy. For the best texture, reheat just enough to warm the filling and bring the chocolate back to a soft melt.

Final Thoughts and Classic American Pie Inspiration

This derby pie recipe delivers everything you want in a dessert—rich chocolate, crunchy pecans, a gooey center, and a golden crust. It’s simple to make, deeply satisfying, and perfect for any occasion, not just Derby Day. Whether you serve it warm with whipped cream or cold from the fridge, it always hits the sweet spot.

The beauty of derby pie is in its balance of flavors and textures. With just a few pantry staples, homemade crust, or alternative mix-ins, this pie proves why it’s remained a beloved classic for generations.

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