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This Kentucky Derby Pie is a chocolaty, nutty treat with a flaky crust, perfect for Derby Day or any time you want a rich dessert. It’s essentially a gooey chocolate chip cookie baked inside a buttery pie shell, creating a warm and comforting flavor that’s both sweet and satisfying without being overwhelming.
I first made this pie during a family gathering and it instantly became a crowd favorite. Now it shows up at most celebrations and is requested year round.
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter: to add moisture and make the filling rich and gooey, choose high quality European style butter if possible
- Granulated sugar: a combination of white and light brown sugar for a caramel depth, use fresh sugar for best flavor
- Large eggs: help bind the filling, bring them to room temperature for smooth mixing
- Allpurpose flour: thickens the filling and ensures the pie sets nicely, pick a soft wheat variety for tender texture
- Semisweet chocolate chips: provide the signature chocolate flavor, opt for chips with good cocoa content to avoid cloying sweetness
- Chopped walnuts: offer a classic nutty crunch, fresh walnuts will give you the best flavor but pecans can be swapped for a southern twist
- Vanilla extract: adds warmth and aroma, pure vanilla is always worth the extra cost
- Salt: balances sweetness, omit if using salted butter
- Unbaked pie crust: homemade or storebought—choose a flaky crust to complement the filling perfectly
Instructions
- Sift and Prepare Pie Crust:
- Line a 9inch pie plate with your unbaked pie crust. Make sure the dough is evenly rolled out to avoid thick edges that might undercook.
- Cream Butter and Sugars:
- In a stand mixer bowl fitted with a paddle attachment, or with a hand mixer, beat the butter, granulated sugar, salt, and vanilla extract on medium speed. Continue until the mixture is light and fluffy which takes about 3 to 5 minutes. Scrape down the sides to ensure even creaming.
- Incorporate Eggs:
- In a small bowl, beat the eggs lightly to combine yolks and whites. Add the eggs to the butter mixture while the mixer is running on medium speed. Mix for about 30 seconds until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Add Flour Gently:
- Add the flour to the mixture and blend on low speed until no streaks remain. This should take about 20 to 30 seconds. Scrape the bowl down again and give a final 10 second mix on low for full incorporation without overmixing.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips and Walnuts:
- Add in the chocolate chips and walnuts and fold them in carefully on low speed or by hand just until evenly distributed. Avoid stirring too much to keep the nuts from breaking down.
- Fill Pie Crust:
- Pour the prepared filling into the pie crust. Use a spatula to spread it evenly to the edges.
- Bake:
- Place the pie on the lowest oven rack. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 40 to 45 minutes until the pie is set and deep golden brown. About 5 minutes before it is done, cover the top lightly with foil if you notice it browning too quickly.
- Cooling and Serving:
- Remove the pie from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely for at least 2 hours. Serve at room temperature, optionally topped with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic finish.
My favorite ingredient has to be the walnuts which bring that perfect nutty bite and a bit of crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smooth chocolate. A memorable moment was when my grandfather tasted this pie for the first time during Derby Day his delighted smile said it all and it’s been our goto treat ever since.
Storage Tips
Store the pie covered at room temperature for up to four days. If you refrigerate it, keep it covered and let it return to room temperature for about an hour before serving so the flavors and texture shine.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap walnuts for pecans if you prefer a sweeter, softer nut flavor popular in southern pies. Milk chocolate chips can replace semisweet if you like a creamier, sweeter bite. Butter can be substituted with vegan margarine for a dairy free option, though the texture will be slightly different.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm or at room temperature alongside whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. Add a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence. Pair with strong coffee or a bourbon cocktail to embrace the Derby Day festivities.
Enjoy warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic finish. It’s a simple yet showstopping dessert perfect for celebrations.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → What makes this pie unique?
The combination of gooey chocolate and chopped walnuts baked inside a flaky crust creates a rich, flavorful texture that's both sweet and nutty.
- → Can I add alcohol for extra flavor?
Yes, adding 2-3 tablespoons of Kentucky bourbon enhances depth and warmth, with favorites like Woodford Reserve or Maker’s Mark working well.
- → What type of crust is best for this pie?
Traditional pie crusts work great, whether homemade, refrigerated, or frozen. For deep-dish pans, increase filling and baking time accordingly.
- → How should I serve the pie?
Serve warm or at room temperature, ideally accompanied by whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement the rich filling.
- → How do I store leftovers properly?
Keep covered at room temperature for up to 4 days or refrigerated for up to 7 days. Bring chilled pie to room temperature before serving.