If you’ve ever wanted to taste a little piece of Kentucky tradition right at home, this Derby Pie Recipe is the perfect treat to dive into. Packed with gooey chocolate chips, crunchy pecans, and a rich, buttery filling nestled inside a flaky crust, it’s a dessert that feels like a warm hug after the very first bite. Whether for a special occasion or just a weekend indulgence, this classic southern pie blends sweetness, texture, and a touch of nostalgia in a way that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple yet essential ingredients come together beautifully to create the decadent taste and texture that define this Derby Pie Recipe. Each element plays a key role, from the crunchy pecans adding a nutty contrast to the silky melted butter that enriches the filling.
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust: A sturdy base that bakes up flaky to hold all the luscious filling perfectly.
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melts into pockets of rich, gooey chocolate throughout the pie.
- 1 cup chopped pecans: Adds a crunchy texture and that signature nutty flavor essential to Derby Pie.
- 1 cup packed brown sugar: Brings deep, caramel-like sweetness and moistness to the filling.
- 2 large eggs: Helps to bind the filling so it sets nicely while remaining soft inside.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Infuses the filling with rich, buttery goodness and softness.
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour: Provides just enough structure so the filling holds together after baking.
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor with warm aromatic notes that complement chocolate and nuts.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
How to Make Derby Pie Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the pie bakes evenly and develops that golden crust and perfectly set filling every time. Having everything ready ahead makes the process smooth and enjoyable.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, brown sugar, melted butter, flour, vanilla extract, and salt until the mixture is smooth and slightly glossy. This combination creates that irresistible sweet, creamy base that’s key to the Derby Pie Recipe’s signature flavor and texture.
Step 3: Stir in Chocolate Chips and Pecans
Fold in the chocolate chips and chopped pecans just until they’re evenly distributed. These add contrasting textures and bursts of flavor, making every bite a delightful surprise of sweet and crunch.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Pour the filling mixture carefully into the unbaked pie crust. Make sure the filling is spread evenly to ensure a consistent bake and an eye-catching presentation once sliced.
Step 5: Bake the Pie
Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly when gently shaken. This slight jiggle means the pie will finish setting as it cools, resulting in a perfectly tender, velvety filling.
Step 6: Cool Completely
Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack. Cooling is crucial as it helps the filling finish its set-up, making slicing easier and enhancing the flavors as they meld together.
How to Serve Derby Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your Derby Pie with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream. These toppings add a creamy contrast to the rich, chocolaty filling and bring a dreamy finish to each serving.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside a light, fresh fruit salad or a simple cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea. These sides complement the pie’s richness, balancing out the sweetness and making the dessert feel even more special.
Creative Ways to Present
Try dusting the pie with a little powdered sugar or adding a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra touch of elegance. For gatherings, cut the pie into small squares and serve on pretty dessert plates for a festive, bite-sized treat everyone can enjoy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for preparing ahead or enjoying as leftovers.
Freezing
Derby Pie freezes wonderfully. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then foil, or place it in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator to preserve the best texture and taste.
Reheating
To warm a slice, gently heat it in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or place it in a low oven (about 300°F) for 10 minutes. This brings back the gooey warmth without drying out the filling, making it taste freshly baked all over again.
FAQs
What makes Derby Pie different from other chocolate pies?
Derby Pie Recipe is unique because of its combination of melted chocolate chips and chopped pecans within a brown sugar-based filling. This creates a perfect harmony of gooey, nutty, and sweet flavors, setting it apart from more straightforward chocolate pies.
Can I use a homemade pie crust instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! A homemade pie crust adds a lovely personal touch and can enhance the flavor and texture. Just make sure it’s prepped and chilled well before filling to avoid a soggy bottom.
Is it necessary to use pecans, or can I substitute other nuts?
Pecans are traditional and give Derby Pie its characteristic taste, but you can swap them out for walnuts or almonds if needed. Keep in mind this will slightly change the flavor and texture but will still be delicious.
Can I make this pie gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Also, ensure your pie crust is gluten-free to keep the entire dessert safe for gluten-sensitive friends and family.
How do I know when the pie is fully baked?
The edges of the filling should be set and firm, while the center will still jiggle slightly when you gently shake the pie. It will continue to set as it cools, so avoid overbaking to maintain that perfect gooey texture.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to impress guests or simply indulge yourself with a decadent treat, the Derby Pie Recipe is a must-try classic. It’s a wonderfully rewarding bake that brings together the best of chocolate, nuts, and buttery sweetness every time. Once you make it, you’ll understand why it’s a beloved staple well beyond the Derby season. Trust me, your kitchen (and everyone you share it with) will thank you.
Print
Derby Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic Derby Pie is a rich, decadent dessert featuring a buttery pie crust filled with a luscious blend of semi-sweet chocolate chips, chopped pecans, brown sugar, and vanilla. With a perfectly set, slightly gooey center, this Southern favorite is ideal for special occasions or comforting family gatherings. Serve warm or at room temperature with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an irresistible treat.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
Filling
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the pie evenly.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, brown sugar, and melted unsalted butter until smooth and well combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients and Flavor: Stir in the all-purpose flour, vanilla extract, and salt into the wet mixture, blending thoroughly to create a smooth batter.
- Incorporate Chocolate and Pecans: Fold the semi-sweet chocolate chips and chopped pecans into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout.
- Fill the Pie Crust: Pour the prepared filling mixture into the unbaked 9-inch pie crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake the Pie: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, until the filling is set with a slight jiggle in the center, indicating a perfect gooey texture without being undercooked.
- Cool Before Serving: Allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack to let the filling set further and make slicing easier.
- Serve and Enjoy: Slice and serve the Derby Pie with optional whipped cream or vanilla ice cream to complement the rich flavors.
Notes
- Ensure the pie is fully cooled before slicing to avoid a runny filling.
- For an extra kick, consider adding a splash of bourbon to the filling mixture.
- You can substitute pecans with walnuts if preferred.
- Use high-quality chocolate chips for the best flavor and texture.
- This pie freezes well; wrap tightly and thaw before serving.
