Introduction

Kentucky Derby Bars are a rich and chewy treat perfect for any occasion. With a buttery crust, gooey pecan filling, and melty chocolate chips, these bars offer a delightful blend of textures and flavors.

Kentucky Derby Bars Recipe - Recipe Image

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

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.
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.
Step 3: Press the crust mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until lightly browned.
Step 4: In another bowl, combine the brown sugar, dark corn syrup, melted butter, eggs, chopped pecans, and chocolate chips. Mix until well combined.
Step 5: Pour the filling over the baked crust and return the pan to the oven. Bake for an additional 25 to 30 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly soft in the center.
Step 6: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.

Tips & Variations

Use toasted pecans for a deeper nutty flavor.
Swap semisweet chocolate chips for white or milk chocolate for a different taste.
If you prefer a chewier texture, reduce the baking time by a few minutes but watch carefully.
Line the pan with parchment paper instead of foil for easier removal.

Storage

Store Kentucky Derby Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat bars gently in the microwave or allow them to come to room temperature before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of nuts?

Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or your favorite nuts based on preference or availability.

Do these bars need to be refrigerated?

They can be stored at room temperature if eaten within a few days, but refrigeration helps extend freshness and keeps them firmer.

Kentucky Derby Bars Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 143 reviews

Kentucky Derby Bars are a rich and decadent dessert featuring a buttery shortbread crust topped with a gooey pecan and chocolate chip filling. These bars combine sweet, nutty, and chocolate flavors perfectly and are ideal for gatherings or as a delicious treat to savor any time.

Author: Sophie
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 24 bars 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

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
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 13×9-inch baking pan with aluminum foil and spray with nonstick cooking spray to ensure easy removal of the bars.
Make the crust mixture: 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 well combined, forming the base for the bars.
Bake the crust: Press the crust mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes until the crust is lightly browned, establishing a firm base for the filling.
Prepare the filling: In another bowl, combine the brown sugar, dark corn syrup, melted butter, eggs, chopped pecans, and semisweet chocolate chips. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated, creating a rich and nutty filling.
Assemble and bake: Pour the filling evenly over the pre-baked crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25 to 30 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly soft in the center for the perfect gooey texture.
Cool and serve: Remove the bars from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, use the foil to lift the bars out and cut them into squares to serve.

Notes

For easier removal, allow bars to cool completely before lifting and cutting.
Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness and balance flavors.
Chocolate chips and pecans can be substituted with other nuts or chocolate varieties according to preference.
Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

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