Kentucky Derby Pecan Bars

There's something undeniably magical about the Kentucky Derby—the thunder of hooves, the sea of colorful hats, and of course, the indulgent spread of Southern treats. These Kentucky Derby Pecan Pie Bars capture all that festive spirit in one decadent bite. Imagine a buttery shortbread crust that crumbles perfectly beneath your fork, topped with a gooey, bourbon-kissed pecan filling that's rich, sweet, and utterly irresistible. Whether you're hosting a Derby Day party or simply craving a taste of Southern comfort, these bars deliver all the flavor of classic pecan pie with a fraction of the effort. They're elegant enough for special occasions yet simple enough to whip up whenever the craving strikes.

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The secret to these bars lies in the contrast of textures. The shortbread base is baked just until golden, creating a sturdy yet tender foundation that holds up beautifully to the rich pecan topping. Meanwhile, the filling—a luscious blend of eggs, brown sugar, corn syrup, and bourbon—transforms into a chewy, caramelized layer studded with crunchy pecans. The addition of bourbon is optional but highly recommended; it adds depth and a subtle warmth that complements the sweetness without overpowering it. If you prefer an alcohol-free version, simply substitute with milk or water. For chocolate lovers, folding in semisweet chocolate chips creates an even more decadent treat that bridges the gap between pecan pie and brownie.

Ingredients

• For the Shortbread Crust: 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar; 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour; 1/4 tsp salt
• For the Pecan Pie Topping: 3 large eggs; 1 cup (200 g) packed light brown sugar; 2/3 cup (160 ml) light corn syrup; 2 tbsp bourbon (optional; can substitute with milk or omit); 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted; 1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp salt; 2 cups (200 g) pecan halves
• Optional Add-Ins: 1 cup (175 g) semisweet chocolate chips

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the pan and preheat

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the shortbread crust

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar for the crust until light and fluffy. Add flour and salt, mixing until a crumbly dough forms.

Step 3: Bake the crust

Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 18–20 minutes, until lightly golden.

Step 4: Prepare the pecan filling

While the crust bakes, whisk together eggs, brown sugar, corn syrup, bourbon (if using), melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt in a large bowl until smooth.

Step 5: Add pecans and chocolate

Stir in pecan halves and chocolate chips (if using).

Step 6: Assemble the bars

Pour the pecan mixture over the hot, partially baked crust. Spread evenly.

Step 7: Bake until set

Return to the oven and bake for 25–28 minutes, or until the topping is just set and golden brown.

Step 8: Cool and cut

Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Lift out using the parchment overhang and cut into bars.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best results, make sure your butter is properly softened for the crust—it should be pliable but not melted. This ensures the shortbread comes together smoothly and bakes evenly. When pressing the dough into the pan, use the bottom of a measuring cup or your fingers to create an even layer that reaches all corners. Don't skip the parchment paper overhang; it makes removing and cutting the bars infinitely easier. When checking for doneness, the filling should still have a slight jiggle in the center—it will continue to set as it cools. Cutting the bars while they're still warm can result in messy edges, so patience pays off here. For cleaner cuts, chill the bars in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before slicing, and wipe your knife between cuts.

Varianten und Anpassungen

These bars are wonderfully versatile and can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs. For a nut-free version, substitute toasted sunflower seeds for the pecans—they provide a similar crunch without the allergen concern. If you want to skip the bourbon entirely, simply replace it with 2 tablespoons of milk or water; the bars will still be deliciously sweet and gooey. Chocolate lovers can double down by drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled bars or swapping half the pecans for walnuts. For a more intense caramel flavor, try using dark brown sugar instead of light. You can also experiment with adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for warm, spiced notes that complement the pecans beautifully.

Serviervorschläge

These Kentucky Derby Pecan Pie Bars shine on their own, but a few simple additions can take them to the next level. Serve them warm with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert that's sure to impress. A drizzle of salted caramel sauce adds extra richness and a sophisticated touch. For a Derby Day spread, arrange the bars on a platter alongside mint juleps and other Southern favorites. They're also perfect for potlucks, bake sales, or holiday cookie exchanges. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, though they rarely last that long. If you need to transport them, keep them in the pan until you're ready to serve, then lift and cut on-site for the freshest presentation.

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Whether you're celebrating the Run for the Roses or simply treating yourself to a taste of Southern comfort, these Kentucky Derby Pecan Pie Bars are guaranteed to be a winner. They combine the elegance of pecan pie with the convenience of a bar cookie, making them accessible for bakers of all skill levels. The buttery shortbread base, gooey bourbon-spiked filling, and crunchy pecans create a harmony of flavors and textures that's impossible to resist. Make a batch for your next gathering and watch them disappear—these bars have a way of stealing the show, no matter the occasion. From the first bite to the last crumb, they're a celebration of everything we love about classic Southern baking.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can bourbon be omitted?

Yes, bourbon can be skipped or replaced with milk or water to maintain moisture without alcohol content.

→ How do I make a nut-free version?

Replace pecans with toasted sunflower seeds for a nut-free alternative while keeping a similar texture.

→ What is the best way to store the bars?

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to preserve freshness.

→ Can chocolate chips be included?

Yes, semisweet chocolate chips can be stirred into the filling for additional flavor and texture.

→ What tools are needed for preparation?

A baking pan, mixing bowls, a whisk or mixer, parchment paper, a wire rack, and a sharp knife are recommended.