Kentucky Derby Bars
Celebrate the Kentucky Derby with these delightful Kentucky Derby Bars. These treats encapsulate the spirit of this famous horse race and are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet afternoon snack. With their rich flavors of chocolate, pecans, and butter, they are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal effort, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of chocolate chips and pecans creates a deliciously rich taste that keeps you coming back for more.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy these bars as a dessert, snack, or even as part of your Kentucky Derby celebration!
- Crowd-Pleaser: With 24 servings, these bars are ideal for sharing at gatherings or parties.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools can make the process of baking Kentucky Derby Bars smooth and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking pan (13×9-inch)
- Aluminum foil
- Nonstick cooking spray
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Pastry blender
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking pan: The size ensures even baking and helps create perfectly shaped bars.
- Aluminum foil: Lining the pan with foil makes it easier to remove the bars after baking.
- Pastry blender: This tool is essential for cutting in butter into dry ingredients, ensuring a flaky 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). Prepare a 13×9-inch baking pan by lining it with aluminum foil, letting the excess hang over the sides. Spray the foil with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
In a large bowl, whisk together:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Using a pastry blender, cut in:
– 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
The mixture should resemble sandy crumbs. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Bake in your preheated oven for about 15 to 18 minutes or until it turns lightly browned.
Now you’re ready to continue with your delicious Kentucky Derby Bars!
How to Serve Kentucky Derby Bars
Kentucky Derby Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Their rich flavors and textures make them perfect for different occasions, especially the Kentucky Derby celebration.
Pair with Coffee
- A warm cup of coffee complements the sweetness of the bars beautifully, enhancing their chocolate and pecan flavors.
Serve with Vanilla Ice Cream
- The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream balances the rich, gooey nature of the bars, creating a delicious contrast.
Enjoy with Whipped Cream
- Adding a dollop of whipped cream on top makes for an indulgent dessert that looks as good as it tastes.
Accompany with Fresh Fruits
- Fresh berries or sliced bananas add a refreshing touch to each bite, making your dessert feel lighter.
Drizzle with Caramel Sauce
- A drizzle of caramel sauce adds extra sweetness and a beautiful finish to your Kentucky Derby Bars when served.
How to Perfect Kentucky Derby Bars
To achieve the ultimate Kentucky Derby Bars, keep these tips in mind for a perfect bake every time.
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Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
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Measure flour correctly: Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off to avoid dense bars.
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Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined when adding eggs and corn syrup; overmixing can lead to tough bars.
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Watch baking time: Keep an eye on your bars during baking; they should be set but slightly soft in the center when done.
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Let cool completely: Allow the bars to cool fully before cutting them into squares for clean edges and better presentation.
Best Side Dishes for Kentucky Derby Bars
If you’re looking to elevate your dessert experience, consider pairing Kentucky Derby Bars with these delicious side dishes. They enhance the overall meal beautifully.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness alongside these rich bars.
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Chocolate Mousse: This light and airy dessert can balance out the density of the Kentucky Derby Bars while still satisfying chocolate cravings.
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Pecan Pie Bites: These mini treats echo the flavors of the bars, creating a delightful theme for your dessert table.
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Creamy Coleslaw: The crunchiness and tanginess of coleslaw provide a refreshing contrast to the sweet richness of the bars.
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Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a savory counterpoint to these sweet treats.
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Mini Cheesecakes: These individual desserts add variety while remaining indulgent without overpowering the flavors of the bars.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Kentucky Derby Bars can be a delightful experience, but avoiding common pitfalls will help ensure your bars are perfect.
- Using unsalted butter: Always use unsalted butter in the crust and filling for better control of salt levels in your dessert.
- Skipping the crust prep: Press the crust mixture firmly into the pan; a well-prepared base will help hold the bars together when cut.
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on your baking time. If you overbake, the Kentucky Derby Bars can become dry instead of deliciously moist.
- Not chopping pecans evenly: Chop pecans into uniform pieces for consistent texture and flavor throughout the bars.
- Ignoring cooling time: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting; this helps maintain their shape and prevents them from crumbling.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Kentucky Derby Bars in an airtight container.
- They can last up to 1 week in the refrigerator.
Freezing Kentucky Derby Bars
- Wrap bars individually or place them in an airtight container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.
Reheating Kentucky Derby Bars
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place bars on a baking sheet covered with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individual pieces on medium power for 20-30 seconds until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat, placing a bar inside until it warms up without burning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Kentucky Derby Bars.
What are Kentucky Derby Bars?
Kentucky Derby Bars are a delicious dessert inspired by traditional Derby Pie, featuring layers of chocolate, nuts, and a rich filling.
Can I customize my Kentucky Derby Bars?
Yes! You can add different types of nuts or substitute chocolate chips with other flavors like butterscotch or white chocolate.
How do I know when my Kentucky Derby Bars are done?
Look for a lightly browned top and a firm center; they should not jiggle when gently shaken.
How should I store leftover Kentucky Derby Bars?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze them for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
Kentucky Derby Bars are a wonderful blend of rich flavors and textures that make them irresistible. Their versatility allows for numerous customization options. Whether you’re serving these at a party or enjoying them at home, they bring joy and satisfaction to every bite. Try making these delightful bars today!
Kentucky Derby Bars
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 24 servings 1x
Description
Kentucky Derby Bars are a decadent treat that captures the essence of the iconic horse race. These rich, chocolatey bars feature a buttery crust and a gooey filling loaded with pecans. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a festive gathering or a cozy night in, these bars are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, Kentucky Derby Bars offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures that evoke the spirit of southern celebrations.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup dark corn syrup
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups chopped pecans
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 13×9-inch baking pan with aluminum foil, letting it hang over the edges, then spray with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners' sugar, and salt. Use a pastry blender to cut in softened butter until crumbly. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 15-18 minutes until lightly browned.
- In another bowl, mix brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, and eggs until combined. Stir in chopped pecans and chocolate chips.
- Pour the filling over the baked crust and return to the oven for an additional 25-30 minutes or until set in the center.
- Cool completely before cutting into squares.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (45g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
