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Best Signature Derby Pie Recipe with Bourbon Caramel and Valrhona Chocolate for Easy Homemade Dessert

signature Derby pie recipe - featured image

A rich and indulgent Derby pie featuring a luscious combination of bourbon caramel and Valrhona dark chocolate, perfect for celebrations or cozy nights in.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups (180g) chopped pecans, toasted
  • 1 cup (175g) Valrhona dark chocolate, chopped into chunks
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp bourbon
  • Bourbon Caramel Sauce:
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream, warmed
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp bourbon
  • Pinch of sea salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place your unbaked pie crust in the 9-inch pie dish. Use a fork to prick the bottom gently to prevent bubbles during baking. Set aside.
  3. Toast the pecans on a baking sheet in the oven for 5–7 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned.
  4. In a large bowl, whisk the melted butter and granulated sugar until combined. Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and bourbon.
  5. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and fold gently to incorporate. Then fold in toasted pecans and chopped Valrhona chocolate chunks.
  6. Pour filling into pie crust evenly but do not overfill. Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips.
  7. Bake for 50–60 minutes until the filling is set but slightly wobbly in the center. Insert a toothpick near the edge; it should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
  8. While the pie bakes, make the bourbon caramel sauce: heat sugar over medium heat in a small saucepan, swirling gently without stirring until it melts into a deep amber color (about 5–7 minutes). Remove from heat and whisk in warm cream, butter, bourbon, and sea salt. Return to low heat and stir until smooth.
  9. Let the pie cool at room temperature for at least 1 hour to firm up and meld flavors.
  10. Serve by drizzling bourbon caramel sauce generously over slices. Optionally add a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Notes

Use Valrhona chocolate for best flavor or substitute with high-quality bittersweet chocolate. Toast pecans lightly for maximum aroma. Watch caramel closely to avoid burning. Let pie cool completely before slicing for best texture. For gluten-free, substitute flour with almond flour. For dairy-free, use coconut cream and plant-based butter but monitor caramel cooking carefully.

Nutrition

Keywords: Derby pie, bourbon caramel, Valrhona chocolate, pecan pie, homemade dessert, easy pie recipe, Kentucky Derby dessert