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Kentucky Derby Bars Recipe

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4.5 from 52 reviews

Kentucky Derby Bars are a rich, indulgent dessert bar featuring a buttery shortbread crust topped with a gooey pecan, chocolate chip, and corn syrup filling. These bars offer a perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors, inspired by the classic flavors of the Kentucky Derby. Easy to make and perfect for parties or dessert trays, they combine a crisp base with a chewy, chocolate-studded topping.

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
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 13×9-inch baking pan with aluminum foil and spray it thoroughly with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Cut in 1 cup softened unsalted butter until the mixture becomes crumbly but holds together when pressed.
  3. Bake the Crust: Press the crumbly crust mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan, creating a uniform layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until it turns lightly browned and firm to the touch. Remove from the oven.
  4. Prepare the Filling: In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup brown sugar, 1 cup dark corn syrup, 2 tablespoons melted butter, and 4 large eggs. Mix well until smooth and well combined. Then fold in 2 cups chopped pecans and 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips evenly throughout the mixture.
  5. Pour and Bake Filling: Carefully pour the pecan and chocolate filling over the hot baked crust, spreading it evenly. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25 to 30 minutes. The bars should be set around the edges but slightly soft in the center when done.
  6. Cool and Serve: Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, lift the bars out using the foil, cut into squares, and serve.

Notes

  • Make sure to cool the bars completely before cutting; this helps them set properly and ensures clean slices.
  • Chopping pecans coarsely adds a nice texture contrast but you can adjust size based on preference.
  • Substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with milk or dark chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
  • For easier removal, ensure foil is overhanging the edges of the pan when lining it.
  • If you want a nuttier taste, you can toast the pecans lightly before adding to the filling.

Keywords: Kentucky Derby Bars, pecan bars, chocolate chip bars, dessert bars, easy baking, corn syrup bars, nutty dessert

Find it online: https://dinewithdylan.com/kentucky-derby-bars-recipe/