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Kentucky Derby Cookie Bars

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
Cook Time 50 minutes
Cooling Time 1 hour
Total Time 2 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cookie Crust
  • 2 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 Filling
  • 0.5 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 Sauce
  • 1 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 bowls
  • baking dish
  • Saucepan
  • Whisk

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 13x9 inch baking dish.
  2. 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.
  3. Spread the cookie dough evenly into the bottom of your greased baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes until it begins to set.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. Allow the bars to cool at room temperature for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
  7. 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.
  8. 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

Notes

Ensure butter is softened for easy mixing. Cool completely before cutting to prevent crumbling. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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