If you’re searching for a show-stopping dessert that blends Southern soul with gooey, chocolate-laden goodness, look no further than Kentucky Pie. This irresistible confection combines a flaky, buttery crust, a luscious filling laced with bourbon (if you fancy), melty chocolate chips, and the rich crunch of pecans. Perfectly sweet, satisfyingly nutty, and dangerously easy to make, Kentucky Pie wins hearts at any gathering—from holiday feasts to casual weeknight cravings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Perhaps the best part about Kentucky Pie (besides eating it!) is how simple the ingredient list is. Each element plays a crucial role: from the pie crust that cradles the decadent filling, right down to the chocolate chips and pecans that add flavor and texture in every bite.
- Unbaked 9-inch pie crust: Provides the essential, buttery base for all the sweet filling magic.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Brings balanced sweetness and helps the filling set up perfectly.
- 1 cup light corn syrup: Gives the pie its signature gooey texture and glossy finish.
- 4 large eggs: Structure, richness, and the classic custard-like consistency come from these.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled): Lends depth of flavor, softness, and just a hint of luxury.
- 2 tablespoons bourbon (optional): Offers warmth and a signature Kentucky flair—skip for a kid-friendly version.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the other flavors beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Punches up the sweetness and highlights the chocolate and nuts.
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips: For puddles of melty, bittersweet heaven in each slice.
- 1 cup chopped pecans: Crunchy, toasty, and absolutely essential for that Southern finish.
How to Make Kentucky Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
Gently press your unbaked 9-inch pie crust into a pie pan, crimping or fluting the edges as you like. Place the pan on a sturdy baking sheet—this makes it much easier to move in and out of the oven later. Set the crust aside while you focus on the star of the show: the delectable filling.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a big bowl, whisk together the sugar, light corn syrup, eggs, melted butter, bourbon (if you’re using it), vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk until everything looks smooth and uniform—the mixture should be pale and just a bit frothy. This step is crucial for that creamy, custard-like texture that makes Kentucky Pie so memorable.
Step 3: Add the Chocolate and Pecans
Fold in the semisweet chocolate chips and chopped pecans. If you have a few extra minutes, give those pecans a quick toast in a dry skillet—their aroma and flavor will blossom beautifully. Stir the mixture well so the chocolate and nuts are evenly distributed throughout the filling.
Step 4: Fill and Bake
Carefully pour the filling into your prepared pie crust, using a spatula to scrape every bit out of the bowl. Spread the filling so it’s even all across. Slide the pie (still on the baking sheet) into your preheated 350°F (175°C) oven. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes—look for a pie that’s set around the edges with just a slight jiggle in the center. If the crust browns too quickly, gently cover the edges with foil during baking.
Step 5: Cool and Slice
Remove the Kentucky Pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a rack. This cooling time ensures the filling sets to sliceable perfection. Once cool, cut into generous wedges, and get ready for a wave of oohs and aahs from your lucky tasters.
How to Serve Kentucky Pie
Garnishes
The classic way to finish a slice of Kentucky Pie is with a lofty dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you want to play up the Southern charm, try a sprinkle of additional toasted pecans on top or a light drizzle of chocolate sauce—pure bliss.
Side Dishes
For a truly indulgent dessert plate, pair Kentucky Pie with something cool and creamy—a scoop of homemade vanilla ice cream, or even a zingy lemon sorbet to offset the richness. A little fruit salad or some fresh strawberries on the side can add a refreshing, juicy contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Hosting a party? Turn Kentucky Pie into bite-sized bars by baking the filling in a slab pan and cutting into squares. Or use mini tart shells for individual servings. For an extra fancy finish, pipe whipped cream rosettes around each serving or garnish with chocolate curls and candied pecans.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once fully cooled, cover leftover Kentucky Pie loosely with foil or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious for up to four days. The flavors even meld and intensify over time, making leftovers a rare treat.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap individual slices or the whole pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Freeze for up to three months. To thaw, simply transfer to the fridge overnight for best results—your Kentucky Pie will maintain its fabulous texture.
Reheating
If you love your pie just a little warm (who could blame you?), reheat individual slices briefly in the microwave, about 15-20 seconds. For larger portions, warm in a low oven at 300°F until just heated through.
FAQs
Can I skip the bourbon in the Kentucky Pie?
Absolutely! The bourbon adds a subtle warmth, but leaving it out won’t take away from the pie’s decadent flavor. It’s just as delicious without, making it perfect for family-friendly gatherings.
Is it necessary to toast the pecans first?
While it’s optional, toasting pecans brings out their nutty flavor and adds an irresistible crunch. A few minutes in a dry skillet or oven works wonders, but you’ll still get great results if you use raw pecans in a pinch.
Why does my pie crust get too brown before the filling is set?
If the crust starts browning too quickly, simply cover the edges with strips of foil during baking. This shields the delicate crust while the filling continues to bake evenly to perfection.
How can I tell when my Kentucky Pie is done?
The pie is ready when the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly—think of it like a pecan pie or custard. It will continue to set as it cools, ensuring perfectly sliceable wedges.
Can I use a store-bought pie crust?
Yes! A quality store-bought pie crust works beautifully and saves time, so you can focus on making (and enjoying) that luscious filling. Homemade or store-bought, the star is all about the rich, gooey filling inside.
Final Thoughts
This Kentucky Pie is pure dessert joy—a blissful mix of chocolate, pecans, and the kind of gooey magic that keeps folks coming back for seconds (and thirds). Give it a try, share it with the people you love, and watch this pie earn a permanent place in your baking repertoire!
Print
Kentucky Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich, decadent flavors of the South with this Kentucky Pie recipe. A luscious mixture of chocolate chips, pecans, and a hint of bourbon, all nestled in a flaky pie crust.
Ingredients
Pie:
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled)
- 2 tablespoons bourbon (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the crust: Place the unbaked pie crust in a 9-inch pie pan and set aside.
- Mix the filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, corn syrup, eggs, melted butter, bourbon, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined. Stir in the chocolate chips and chopped pecans.
- Fill the crust: Pour the mixture into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake: Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the pie is set and the center is slightly jiggly. Cover edges with foil if crust browns too quickly.
- Cool and serve: Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. Serve as is or with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Notes
- You can omit the bourbon for a kid-friendly version.
- Toasting the pecans before adding them to the filling enhances their flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 40g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 64g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
