Kentucky Derby Bars

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Had I not been invited to a Kentucky Derby Party, I would have had no idea that the Kentucky Derby was this weekend. It’s not something that I follow. One year I did get involved, and it seemed like much ado about nothing. I mean it’s not as though the horses run laps, it’s just a short distance and everything is over.

One thing that is going to last are these delicious Kentucky Derby Bars. Rich, chocolaty, nutty, and delicious, this is one dessert that can go the distance.

Kentucky Derby Bars

Crust
3 c. graham cracker crumbs*
½ c. unsalted butter, melted
¼ c. sugar
1 large egg white, lightly beaten

Filling
1 c. firmly packed dark brown sugar
½ c. light corn syrup
½ c. dark corn syrup
¼ c. unsalted butter, melted
3 large eggs
1 t. vanilla extract 

1 t. bourbon flavoring

¼ t. salt
2 c. pecan halves
2 c. semi sweet chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350° F. Spray a 9” x 13” baking pan with PAM. Line with aluminum foil allowing 2 inches to hang over either end for easy removal of cookie slab.

CRUST: In the work bowl of a food processor combine crumbs, butter, sugar, and egg white, pulsing until combined. Press into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 12 minutes; cool completely.

FILLING: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, corn syrups, butter, eggs, vanilla, bourbon flavoring, and salt. Fold in pecans and chocolate chips. Pour mixture over prepared crust.

Bake until center is set, 30 to 40 minutes. Allow to cool 15 minutes before removing from the pan. Cut into squares. Makes 24.

*7 whole crackers equal one cup of crumbs.