Are you craving a slice of Kentucky's most famous dessert, but want a version the whole family can enjoy? This Derby Pie recipe, without the bourbon, is just as delicious and satisfying, offering all the nutty, chocolatey goodness you love in a simpler, adaptable recipe. Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or a cozy night in, this easy recipe makes homemade dessert a breeze! This is a delicious addition to your collection of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups finely crushed graham crackers (about 12 full crackers)
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup pecans, coarsely chopped
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup heavy cream
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch pie plate. This simple step ensures your pie releases easily.
Make the Crust:
- In a medium bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, brown sugar, and melted butter. Mix until evenly moistened.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of the prepared pie plate, creating an even crust.
Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the chocolate chips, pecans, eggs, vanilla extract, and granulated sugar until well combined. Make sure there are no unmixed pockets of sugar.
- Gradually pour in the heavy cream, whisking constantly until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Bake and Cool:
- Pour the filling into the prepared graham cracker crust.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set around the edges and the center is just slightly jiggly. Don't overbake!
- Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before serving. This allows the filling to set properly and prevents a messy slice.
Tips for the Best Derby Pie:
- Use good quality chocolate: The quality of your chocolate will significantly impact the flavor of your pie. Invest in a good brand of semi-sweet chocolate chips for best results.
- Don't overbake: Overbaking will result in a dry and crumbly pie. Check for doneness around 40 minutes, and add a few minutes if needed. A slight jiggle in the center is okay.
- Chill thoroughly: Allowing the pie to cool completely before slicing prevents a messy and runny dessert. Patience is key here!
Variations:
- Add a sprinkle of sea salt: A pinch of sea salt sprinkled on top before baking enhances the chocolate and pecan flavors.
- Use different nuts: Substitute walnuts or pecans for the pecans, or use a mix of nuts for added texture and flavor.
- Make it vegan: Swap the eggs for a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tbsp water) and use vegan butter and cream. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Fat: Approximately 25-30g
- Sugar: Approximately 35-40g
This delicious Derby Pie recipe, even without the bourbon, is a perfect example of how simple and delicious homemade cooking can be. It’s a surefire way to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth with this easy recipe, making it an excellent addition to your collection of best recipes. Enjoy!