As I stood in my kitchen, the alluring scent of melting chocolate wafting through the air, I couldn’t help but feel a surge of excitement. Today, I’m sharing a delightful twist on a classic favorite: Kentucky Derby Cookie Bars with Bourbon Caramel Sauce. Imagine sinking your teeth into a chewy chocolate chip cookie crust, topped with a rich filling of gooey chocolate chips and crunchy pecans, all drizzled with an indulgent homemade caramel sauce. The best part? These bars are a breeze to whip up and make for an eye-catching crowd-pleaser at any gathering, especially during Derby celebrations. Are you ready to elevate your dessert game? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe! Why Are These Cookie Bars a Must-Try? Irresistible Flavor: A combination of chocolate, pecans, and bourbon creates a dessert that’s both rich and indulgent. You’ll find it hard to resist a second helping! Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can transform basic ingredients into a gourmet treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Versatile Options: Feel free to switch out the pecans for walnuts or almonds based on your preference, or even swap peanut butter chips for a fun twist! Perfect for Gatherings: These Kentucky Derby Cookie Bars are an eye-catching centerpiece for your dessert table that will impress friends and family. Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep them in advance and store them, so you can enjoy your event without last-minute baking stress. Pair alongside a scoop of ice cream for an extra indulgent experience! Kentucky Derby Cookie Bars Ingredients Here’s everything you need to create these decadent Kentucky Derby Cookie Bars with Bourbon Caramel Sauce. For the Cookie Crust All-purpose flour – Provides structure; avoid substitutions for best results. Baking soda – Essential for rising; ensure it’s fresh for optimal lift. Salt – Enhances flavors; use sea salt for a richer taste. Unsalted butter – Adds richness; soften it for easy mixing. Granulated sugar – Sweetens the crust; swap some for brown sugar for deeper flavor. Brown sugar – Moisture and caramel notes; dark brown sugar intensifies the taste. Water – Aids in creaming butter and sugars; can use milk for creaminess. Pure vanilla extract – Boosts flavor; omit if necessary, but it adds depth. Large eggs – Binds and provides moisture; room temperature eggs mix better. Semi-sweet chocolate chips – Adds sweetness and texture; dark chocolate chips can offer a bolder flavor. For the Derby Pie Filling Bourbon whiskey – Delivers distinctive flavor; substitute with vanilla extract for a non-alcoholic version. Chopped pecans – Offers crunch and nutty flavor; walnuts can be used as an alternative. For the Bourbon Caramel Sauce Heavy cream – Creates a creamy texture; coconut cream is a great dairy-free option. Flaky sea salt – Adds a perfect flavor contrast; it’s optional but highly recommended. With these ingredients, you’re all set to create an unforgettable dessert experience with the beloved flavors of Kentucky Derby Cookie Bars! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Kentucky Derby Cookie Bars Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, grease a 13×9 inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter to ensure easy removal of your cookie bars later. This is an essential step for your Kentucky Derby Cookie Bars, as a well-prepared dish will allow for an even bake and a perfect golden crust. Step 2: Make the Cookie Crust In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. In another bowl, cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter with ½ cup granulated sugar and ½ cup brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, mixing until just combined, then gradually incorporate the dry ingredients. Stir in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips. Step 3: Press the Cookie Dough Once the cookie dough is well mixed, spread and press it evenly into the bottom of your greased baking dish, ensuring a firm base. The dough should cover the entire bottom of the dish to prepare for the filling. Bake the cookie crust for 10 minutes in your preheated oven, until it begins to set but is not fully cooked, allowing it to remain soft for the Derby Pie filling. Step 4: Prepare the Derby Pie Filling While the crust bakes, prepare the Derby Pie filling. In a large bowl, cream together ½ cup of softened butter and 1 cup each of granulated and brown sugars until smooth. Beat in 2 large eggs and 2 tablespoons of bourbon, mixing thoroughly. Next, add ½ cup of all-purpose flour, ¼ teaspoon salt, 1 cup of chopped pecans, and ½ cup of chocolate chips. Stir until fully combined, creating a rich filling that compliments the cookie crust. Step 5: Assemble and Bake After the cookie crust has baked for 10 minutes, pour the prepared Derby Pie filling over the partially baked crust, spreading it to cover evenly. Bake in the oven for an additional 30-40 minutes. The bars are ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs; this indicates the perfect gooey texture for your Kentucky Derby Cookie Bars. Step 6: Cool the Bars Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow the bars to cool at room temperature for 45 minutes to 1 hour. Cooling is crucial, as it helps the bars firm up for easier cutting. Enjoy the delightful aroma filling your kitchen as you anticipate the final results of your homemade dessert. Step 7: Prepare the Bourbon Caramel Sauce While the bars cool, make the bourbon caramel sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup of water and 1 cup of brown sugar, bringing to a boil while stirring gently. Once boiling, whisk in ½ cup of heavy cream and 2 tablespoons of bourbon, letting it simmer for about 5-8 minutes until it thickens slightly. Set aside to cool; it will continue to thicken as it cools. Step 8: Serve and Enjoy When ready to serve, cut your Kentucky Derby Cookie Bars into squares. Drizzle with the homemade bourbon caramel sauce and, if desired, add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for extra indulgence. These bars make for a delightful treat at any gathering or a rich dessert to savor at home! Expert Tips for Kentucky Derby Cookie Bars Softened Butter: Ensure your butter is thoroughly softened for easy mixing; this helps achieve a light, fluffy cookie crust without lumps. Cool Before Cutting: Let the bars cool completely for 45 minutes to an hour. This step prevents crumbling and maintains the structure of your Kentucky Derby Cookie Bars. Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the bars; it should come out with a few moist crumbs for the perfect gooey texture. Storage Secrets: Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for up to three days, perfect for snacking! Perfect Caramel Sauce: Avoid overcooking the bourbon caramel sauce. It thickens even more as it cools, so stop when it’s slightly syrupy for a luscious, drizzable finish. Make Ahead Options These Kentucky Derby Cookie Bars are ideal for busy home cooks looking to simplify meal prep! You can prepare the cookie crust and Derby Pie filling up to 24 hours in advance. For the crust, press the dough into your baking dish, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. The filling can be mixed ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge, ensuring freshness. When you’re ready to bake, simply spread the filling over the chilled crust, and follow the baking instructions. To preserve quality, cool the bars completely before storing in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. With these make-ahead options, you can enjoy your delicious Kentucky Derby Cookie Bars with minimal stress! What to Serve with Kentucky Derby Cookie Bars? Indulging in the decadent layers of these cookie bars is just the beginning; let’s create a delightful meal experience together. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla perfectly balances the rich flavors of the cookie bars while amplifying the overall indulgence. Whipped Cream: A light and airy dollop on top adds a delightful contrast, enhancing the sweetness of the bars while adding a bit of elegance. Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries provide a refreshing tartness that cuts through the richness, making each bite feel bright and vibrant. Coffee or Espresso: The robust flavors of a rich coffee or espresso contrast the sweetness of the bars, creating a comforting pairing perfect for any time of day. Pairing the Kentucky Derby Cookie Bars with these lovely treats will surely bring joy to your gathering as you celebrate life’s sweetest moments! Kentucky Derby Cookie Bars Variations Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make your Kentucky Derby Cookie Bars even more special! Nuts Swap: Replace pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor. Each nut offers a unique crunch that elevates your bars. Chocolate Choices: Use milk chocolate chips for a sweeter profile or dark chocolate for a rich, bittersweet contrast. The choice of chocolate can shift the entire flavor experience! No-Bourbon Option: Omit bourbon for a family-friendly version or substitute it with vanilla extract to mimic the complex flavor without the alcohol. You won’t miss a beat! Coconut Cream: For a dairy-free caramel sauce, swap heavy cream with coconut cream. This adds a tropical twist and creamy consistency that pairs well with chocolate. Caramel Sauce Variation: For a different flair, try adding a pinch of espresso powder to your caramel sauce for a mocha-like depth. It adds a new layer of flavor that coffee lovers will adore. Spicy Heat: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to your filling for a subtle kick! It balances beautifully with the sweetness, creating an interesting flavor profile. Chunky Style: Mix in additional chunks of chocolate or candy bars for a more decadent cookie bar experience. It makes every bite a delicious surprise! Fruit Inclusion: For a fruity twist, fold in chopped dried cherries or cranberries. Their tartness beautifully complements the richness of the cookie bars and adds a chewy texture. These variations can transform your traditional recipe into a new, tantalizing treat. And if you’re looking for more delightful desserts, consider trying Peach Crumble Bars or indulge in some Chewy Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies. Happy baking! How to Store and Freeze Kentucky Derby Cookie Bars Room Temperature: Keep cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This retains their chewy texture and rich flavor. Fridge: For longer storage, refrigerate the Kentucky Derby Cookie Bars in an airtight container for up to a week. Just allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste. Freezer: Freeze your cookie bars for up to 3 months! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying. Reheating: To revive the deliciousness, briefly warm up the cookie bars in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Serve them with a drizzle of bourbon caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat! Kentucky Derby Cookie Bars Recipe FAQs What type of bourbon works best for the Bourbon Caramel Sauce? Absolutely! A good quality bourbon enhances the flavor of the caramel sauce. Go for a brand that you enjoy sipping, as the flavor will shine through in your dessert. Aged bourbons with a touch of sweetness work beautifully, but even a smoother option will do the trick. How should I store leftover Kentucky Derby Cookie Bars? After making these delectable bars, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. When ready to enjoy, let them come to room temperature for the best flavor! Can I freeze the Kentucky Derby Cookie Bars? Yes, you can freeze these decadent cookie bars! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat them, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge. For a warm treat, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. What should I do if my bourbon caramel sauce is too thick? If your caramel sauce becomes too thick during cooking, simply whisk in a bit of water or cream over low heat until you reach your desired consistency. This will help revive the lovely pourable texture, making it perfect for drizzling over your cookie bars! How can I adjust this recipe for dietary restrictions? Very! For a dairy-free option, replace the butter with a dairy-free margarine and use coconut cream for the caramel sauce. If you want to omit the bourbon, feel free to substitute it with extra vanilla extract. Check the chocolate and caramel ingredients for any allergens, especially if you’re serving guests with food sensitivities. How do I know when the Kentucky Derby Cookie Bars are done baking? To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the bars. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they’re perfectly gooey and done! If it comes out wet with batter, they need more baking time. Aim for a baking time of 30-40 minutes after pouring in the filling. Enjoy the sweet anticipation! Decadent Kentucky Derby Cookie Bars You’ll Crave Again! Indulge in these Kentucky Derby Cookie Bars with bourbon caramel sauce, a delightful twist on a classic dessert that will impress any crowd. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 50 minutes minsCooling Time 1 hour hrTotal Time 2 hours hrs 10 minutes mins Servings: 12 barsCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cookie Crust2 cups all-purpose flour Provides structure; avoid substitutions for best results.1 teaspoon baking soda Essential for rising; ensure it's fresh for optimal lift.0.5 teaspoon salt Enhances flavors; use sea salt for a richer taste.0.5 cups unsalted butter Adds richness; soften it for easy mixing.0.5 cups granulated sugar Sweetens the crust; swap some for brown sugar for deeper flavor.0.5 cups brown sugar Moisture and caramel notes; dark brown sugar intensifies the taste.1 tablespoon water Aids in creaming butter and sugars; can use milk for creaminess.1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract Boosts flavor; omit if necessary, but it adds depth.1 large egg Binds and provides moisture; room temperature eggs mix better.1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips Adds sweetness and texture; dark chocolate chips can offer a bolder flavor.For the Derby Pie Filling0.5 cups bourbon whiskey Delivers distinctive flavor; substitute with vanilla extract for a non-alcoholic version.1 cup chopped pecans Offers crunch and nutty flavor; walnuts can be used as an alternative.For the Bourbon Caramel Sauce1 cup heavy cream Creates a creamy texture; coconut cream is a great dairy-free option.flaky sea salt Adds a perfect flavor contrast; it's optional but highly recommended. Equipment Mixing bowlsbaking dishSaucepanWhisk Method PreparationPreheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 13x9 inch baking dish.In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg and vanilla, mixing until just combined. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients and stir in chocolate chips.Spread the cookie dough evenly into the bottom of your greased baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes until it begins to set.Prepare the Derby Pie filling by creaming together butter with sugars until smooth. Beat in eggs and bourbon, then mix in flour, salt, pecans, and chocolate chips until fully combined.After the crust has baked for 10 minutes, pour the Derby Pie filling over the crust and spread evenly. Bake for an additional 30-40 minutes until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.Allow the bars to cool at room temperature for 45 minutes to 1 hour.Prepare the bourbon caramel sauce by combining water and brown sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until boiling. Whisk in heavy cream and bourbon, simmer for about 5-8 minutes until it thickens slightly.Cut the Kentucky Derby Cookie Bars into squares and drizzle with the bourbon caramel sauce before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1barCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 4gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 300IUCalcium: 30mgIron: 1.5mg NotesEnsure butter is softened for easy mixing. Cool completely before cutting to prevent crumbling. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
