Kentucky Derby Pie Brownie Bars Recipe

Are you looking for a dessert that brings together the best of both worlds? The Kentucky Derby Pie Brownie Bars offer the perfect marriage of two beloved treats: rich, fudgy brownies and the iconic flavors of Derby pie. These bars are ideal for anyone craving a decadent dessert with layers of flavor, perfect for special occasions or an indulgent treat after dinner. With chocolate chips, bourbon, and toasted pecans, this dessert will surely become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love These Kentucky Derby Pie Brownie Bars

The combination of a rich brownie base with a gooey, nutty Derby pie layer creates an irresistible flavor profile. The semi-sweet chocolate and warm bourbon make these bars feel both sophisticated and comforting. Whether you’re celebrating the Kentucky Derby or just looking for a decadent dessert to impress your friends, these Kentucky Derby Pie Brownie Bars are sure to delight.

Ingredients Needed For Kentucky Derby Pie Bars

Before diving into the recipe, let’s quickly go over the ingredients you’ll need for these mouthwatering bars. The list is simple, yet the flavors are anything but ordinary.

Brownie Layer:

• 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or 4 oz of chopped semi-sweet chocolate)
• 3/4 cup butter (melted)
• 2 cups sugar
• 3 large eggs (slightly beaten)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour

Derby Pie Layer:

• 1 cup dark brown sugar (packed)
• 1 cup dark corn syrup
• 1/2 cup butter (melted)
• 4 large eggs (slightly beaten)
• 3 tbsp bourbon (I used Crown Royal Vanilla Whiskey)
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 2 cups pecans (toasted)

Equipment Needed For Kentucky Derby Pie Bars

Before you begin, make sure you have the following kitchen equipment on hand:

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Parchment paper
• Microwave-safe bowl (for melting the butter and chocolate)
• Large mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula or spoon for stirring

Step-by-Step Guide

These Kentucky Derby Pie bars might seem a bit involved, but don’t worry. Each step is easy to follow, and the results are worth the effort. Here’s how you can make Kentucky Derby Pie Brownie Bars from scratch.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the brownies bake evenly and perfectly. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and line it with parchment paper. Be sure to spray the parchment paper as well to make sure the bars come out easily after baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Brownie Layer

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. You can do this in increments of 20-30 seconds to avoid overheating the butter. Once melted, add the semi-sweet chocolate (or chopped chocolate), and stir until fully melted and smooth. This step should only take a few moments. Let the chocolate-butter mixture cool slightly.

Once it’s slightly cooled, add the sugar and vanilla extract. Slowly drizzle in the eggs while whisking continuously to prevent the eggs from cooking in the warm chocolate mixture. Stir until all the ingredients are fully combined and the mixture is smooth.

Add the flour and mix until no visible flour remains. The consistency of the brownie batter should be thick and smooth, with a slightly glossy sheen from the melted butter and chocolate. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.

Step 3: Bake the Brownie Layer

Place the brownie layer in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. The top should be set, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out with just a few moist crumbs. The consistency of the brownie layer should be slightly firm but fudgy. Remove from the oven and set aside while you prepare the Derby Pie layer.

Step 4: Prepare the Derby Pie Layer

In a large mixing bowl, combine the dark brown sugar, dark corn syrup, and melted butter. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and the sugar has dissolved. Add the beaten eggs one at a time, whisking continuously to combine. Stir in the bourbon (I recommend Crown Royal Vanilla Whiskey for a unique twist), and mix until everything is well incorporated.

Next, fold in the toasted pecans and semi-sweet chocolate chips. The pecans should be lightly toasted for added flavor and crunch. This step will create the rich, nutty texture that makes Derby pie so special.

Step 5: Add the Derby Pie Layer on Top

Pour the Derby pie mixture over the pre-baked brownie layer. Use a spatula to spread it evenly over the top of the brownies. The Derby pie layer should cover the brownies entirely.

Step 6: Bake the Entire Dish

Bake the bars for an additional 35 minutes. The top should be golden brown, and the center should be slightly set but still a little wobbly. This is completely normal, and as the bars cool, the filling will firm up.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Remove the pan from the oven and allow the Kentucky Derby Pie Brownie Bars to cool completely in the baking dish. The bars will firm up as they cool, so don’t worry if they seem a bit loose right out of the oven.

Once cooled, slice into squares or bars. For the best texture, chill the bars in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. This will allow the layers to set fully and enhance the flavors.

Step 8: Store Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely), store the Kentucky Derby Pie Brownie Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The bars can also be frozen for longer storage—simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and they’ll stay fresh for up to three months.

Tips, Shortcuts, and Variations

• Bourbon Substitutes: If you don’t have bourbon, you can swap it out with rum or a non-alcoholic substitute like vanilla extract or caramel syrup.
• Nut-Free Option: If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the toasted pecans and add an extra cup of chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey treat.
• Chocolate Chips: Use milk chocolate chips or dark chocolate chips for a slightly different flavor. Adjust the sweetness by using a different type of chocolate.

FAQs

Can I make Kentucky Derby Pie bars ahead of time? Yes! These bars actually taste better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight, as the flavors have time to meld together. Make them ahead of time for parties or gatherings.

Can I make these bars in a smaller pan? You can, but be sure to adjust the baking time. If you use a smaller pan, the layers will be thicker, so it will take a bit longer to bake.

What should the consistency be for the brownie layer? The brownie batter should be thick and glossy, while the Derby pie layer should be pourable but thickened by the pecans and chocolate chips.

Pairing Suggestions

These Kentucky Derby Pie Brownie Bars are rich and indulgent, so you may want to pair them with something light and refreshing. A tall glass of cold milk is always a classic choice. For a more sophisticated pairing, try serving them with a glass of bourbon or a rich coffee.

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These Kentucky Derby Pie Brownie Bars are the perfect dessert for chocolate lovers, bourbon enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates a good Southern-inspired treat. Whether you’re celebrating the Kentucky Derby or just want a new, indulgent dessert, these bars are sure to satisfy. Be sure to share this recipe with your friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more delicious recipes and baking tips.