Dessert

Kentucky Derby Bars Recipe

ByNaomi Fletcher January 6, 2026January 6, 2026

Introduction

Kentucky Derby Bars are a deliciously rich treat combining a buttery crust with a gooey pecan and chocolate chip filling. Perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying any time, these bars offer a delightful mix of textures and flavors.

A stack of nine square layered bars arranged in a pyramid shape on a white scalloped cake stand, set against a white marbled surface. Each bar has three visible layers: a bottom layer of light yellow, soft, and crumbly cake; a middle dark brown thick layer filled with many light beige nut pieces; and a top layer of golden brown, slightly cracked cookie-like crust studded with small nut pieces. Around the base of the cake stand are fresh green leaves and six roses, three in pink shades and three in white. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

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

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 13×9-inch baking pan with aluminum foil, leaving excess hanging over the sides. Spray the foil with nonstick cooking spray to make removing the bars easier later.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Cut in the softened butter with a pastry blender or fork until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs with a sandy texture.
Step 3: Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake the crust for 15 to 18 minutes until lightly browned.
Step 4: Using the same large bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, dark corn syrup, melted butter, and eggs until well combined.
Step 5: Gently fold in the chopped pecans and semisweet chocolate chips so they are evenly distributed in the filling.
Step 6: Pour the filling evenly over the partially baked crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the center is set and no longer jiggly.
Step 7: Remove the bars from the oven and allow to cool completely at room temperature. For best texture, chill the bars in the refrigerator until firm before cutting.
Step 8: Use the foil edges to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut into squares and serve.

Tips & Variations

For a nut-free version, omit the pecans and add extra chocolate chips or chopped dried fruit instead.
Use parchment paper instead of foil for easier cleanup and less sticking.
To enhance flavor, toast pecans lightly before adding to the filling.

Storage

Store Kentucky Derby Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days to maintain freshness. Reheat slightly in the microwave for a warm, gooey treat, or enjoy chilled for a firmer texture.

How to Serve

The image shows a white cake stand holding nine square dessert bars stacked in a pyramid shape. Each bar has three layers: a light yellow, soft-looking base at the bottom, a thick middle layer filled with dark brown chocolate and whole peanuts, and a textured, golden-brown top layer with small peanut pieces scattered across it. Around the base of the cake stand, there are fresh green leaves and pink and white roses, enhancing the presentation. The background and surface have a clean white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I freeze Kentucky Derby Bars?

Yes, wrap the cut bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

What makes these bars different from regular pecan bars?

Kentucky Derby Bars include chocolate chips along with pecans and a rich, buttery filling, giving them a unique flavor combination and extra gooey texture that sets them apart from traditional pecan bars.