Kentucky Derby Bars Recipe

Introduction

Kentucky Derby Bars are a delightful treat combining a buttery crust with a rich, gooey filling packed with pecans and chocolate chips. Perfect for gatherings or as a sweet snack, these bars bring a taste of Southern tradition to your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup firmly packed brown sugar
• 1 cup dark corn syrup
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups chopped pecans
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 13×9-inch baking pan with aluminum foil and spray it with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Step 2: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, confectioners’ sugar, and a pinch of salt. Cut in the softened butter until the mixture is crumbly.
3. Step 3: Press the crust mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan and bake for 15 to 18 minutes until it is lightly browned.
4. Step 4: In another bowl, combine the brown sugar, dark corn syrup, melted butter, eggs, chopped pecans, and chocolate chips. Mix until well incorporated.
5. Step 5: Pour the filling over the baked crust and return the pan to the oven. Bake for an additional 25 to 30 minutes, removing when the filling is set but still slightly soft in the center.
6. Step 6: Allow the bars to cool completely before lifting from the pan using the foil and cutting into squares.

Tips & Variations

• For a nuttier flavor, toast the pecans lightly before adding them to the filling.
• Substitute the semisweet chocolate chips with white chocolate or butterscotch chips for a different twist.
• If you prefer a less sweet bar, reduce the brown sugar to 3/4 cup.

Storage

Store the Kentucky Derby Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat bars gently in a microwave for 10-15 seconds to regain softness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend of equal measure to make the crust gluten-free.

What is the best way to cut the bars cleanly?

Use a sharp knife and cut the bars once they have fully cooled. For cleaner cuts, chill the bars in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before slicing.

Kentucky Derby Bars Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 98 reviews

• Author: Zoe
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 24 bars 1x

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Description

Kentucky Derby Bars are a deliciously rich and nutty dessert bar featuring a buttery shortbread crust topped with a gooey pecan, chocolate, and corn syrup filling. Perfect for parties or as a sweet treat, these bars combine the classic flavors of a pecan pie in a convenient handheld form.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Crust

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Filling

• 1 cup firmly packed brown sugar
• 1 cup dark corn syrup
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups chopped pecans
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 13×9-inch baking pan with aluminum foil and spray it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Cut in the softened butter until the mixture becomes crumbly and can be pressed evenly into the pan.
3. Bake the Crust: Press the crust mixture firmly and evenly into the baking pan. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until the crust is lightly browned, then remove from oven.
4. Prepare the Filling: In another bowl, combine the brown sugar, dark corn syrup, melted butter, eggs, chopped pecans, and semisweet chocolate chips. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
5. Add Filling and Bake: Pour the filling mixture evenly over the partially baked crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25 to 30 minutes until the filling is set but remains slightly soft in the center.
6. Cool and Serve: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, lift the foil to remove the bars and cut into squares for serving.

Notes

• Use room temperature butter for easier mixing and better crust texture.
• Do not overbake the filling; it should be set but still slightly soft in the center for the best chewy texture.
• Line the pan with foil for easy removal and cleanup.
• These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
• For a nut-free version, omit pecans and consider adding extra chocolate chips or chopped dried fruit.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Kentucky Derby Bars, pecan bars, chocolate chip bars, dessert bars, nutty dessert, sweet bars, pecan pie bars