If you have a sweet tooth and love classic Southern desserts, you simply must try this Derby Pie Recipe. It is an irresistible combination of gooey chocolate chips, crunchy pecans, and rich brown sugar baked into a buttery pie crust. Each bite delivers a perfect harmony of textures and flavors that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or just indulging yourself, this pie never fails to bring smiles all around the table. Let me share why this Derby Pie Recipe is destined to become one of your favorite go-to desserts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its straightforward yet essential ingredients. Each component adds a unique element—creamy sweetness, nutty crunch, or a lovely aroma—that together create something truly magical.
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust: A flaky, buttery foundation that holds the filling beautifully.
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: For melty bursts of chocolate that balance the sweet and nutty flavors.
- 1 cup chopped pecans: Adds a satisfying crunch and rich, earthy flavor.
- 1 cup packed brown sugar: Imparts deep, caramel notes that enrich the filling.
- 2 large eggs: The binding agent that ensures a smooth, custardy texture.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Brings richness and moisture to the filling.
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour: Helps stabilize the filling for perfect slices.
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a warm, sweet fragrance.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and deepen the overall taste.
How to Make Derby Pie Recipe
Step 1: Get Your Oven Ready
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is perfect to bake the pie slowly and evenly, letting the filling set just right without overcooking.
Step 2: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the eggs, brown sugar, melted butter, flour, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk everything together until smooth and creamy. This mixture is the base that will give your pie its signature luscious texture.
Step 3: Add in the Good Stuff
Stir in the chocolate chips and chopped pecans gently so they are evenly distributed throughout the filling. These ingredients are the stars of the show, providing bursts of flavor and delightful texture in every bite.
Step 4: Assemble Your Pie
Pour this rich batter into your unbaked pie crust, smoothing the top lightly with a spatula. The crust acts as the perfect vessel for the sweet, nutty filling.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll want the filling to be mostly set but still slightly jiggly in the center—this ensures a wonderfully gooey yet stable pie when cooled.
Step 6: Let It Cool
Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. Cooling is key—it lets the filling solidify further so your slices hold together beautifully and slice cleanly.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Derby Pie Recipe as is or add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. Each bite will be pure joy!
How to Serve Derby Pie Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of powdered sugar, a few toasted pecan halves, or a drizzle of caramel sauce make lovely garnishes that elevate this classic dessert. They add both visual appeal and complementary flavors to each slice.
Side Dishes
Pair your Derby Pie with a simple cup of black coffee or a glass of cold milk to balance the sweetness. A light fruit salad can also serve as a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, cut the pie into bite-sized squares and serve on skewers with whipped cream dollops. You can also create mini Derby pies in tart tins for delightful individual servings that impress at parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover pie tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This helps preserve the moist texture and fresh flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze Derby Pie for up to 2 months. Wrap the whole pie or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
Warm leftover pie slices gently in a microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes. Adding a scoop of ice cream on top after reheating makes the treat just like freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use a store-bought pie crust for this Derby Pie Recipe?
Absolutely! A good quality store-bought pie crust works perfectly and makes this dessert much quicker to prepare while still delivering fantastic flavor and texture.
What can I substitute if I don’t have pecans?
Walnuts are a great alternative and will provide a similar crunchy texture and nutty flavor. You can also try chopped almonds or skip nuts altogether if you prefer.
Is Derby Pie Recipe gluten-free friendly?
To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free pie crust and substitute the all-purpose flour in the filling with a gluten-free flour blend. This allows you to enjoy the pie without worry.
How can I tell when the pie is done baking?
The filling should be set around the edges but still jiggle slightly in the center when you gently shake the pan. This means it will firm up perfectly as it cools.
Can Derby Pie Recipe be made ahead of time for a party?
Yes! You can bake it the day before and refrigerate overnight. Just bring it to room temperature before serving or warm slices slightly for the best experience.
Final Thoughts
This Derby Pie Recipe is a treasure worth making again and again. Its comforting combination of chocolate, nuts, and rich sweetness wrapped in a flaky crust is sure to become a beloved staple in your dessert collection. I encourage you to try it soon and watch how it lights up every gathering with smiles and happy hearts.
Print
Derby Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Derby Pie is a classic American dessert featuring a deliciously gooey filling of chocolate chips, pecans, and brown sugar, baked in a flaky pie crust. This rich and sweet pie is perfect for special occasions or anytime you crave a comforting, indulgent treat.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
Filling
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the pie.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, brown sugar, melted butter, all-purpose flour, vanilla extract, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add chocolate and nuts: Stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and chopped pecans evenly into the batter.
- Prepare pie crust: Pour the prepared filling mixture into the unbaked 9-inch pie crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake the pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center to ensure a moist and gooey texture.
- Cool the pie: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely to allow the filling to set fully before slicing.
- Serve: Slice the cooled pie and serve it as is or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
Notes
- Do not overbake the pie; the center should remain slightly jiggly for the signature gooey texture.
- For a nut-free version, omit pecans or substitute with an equal amount of additional chocolate chips.
- Ensure the pie cools fully before slicing to prevent the filling from falling apart.
- Use high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips for the best flavor impact.
- This pie can be stored covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 4 days.
