Kentucky Derby Chocolate Walnut Pie

The Kentucky Derby is the most legendary of all American thoroughbred horse races. It takes place every year at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, on the first Saturday in May. The Run for the Roses is the longest-running sporting event in the United States, dating to 1875, and immediately brings to mind traditions that have become indelibly linked to it: knockout hats for the women, a reference to the era in which it originated; mint juleps; betting; the song "My Old Kentucky Home;" a blanket of roses for the winning horse (which gave the race its alternate name) and celebrities. Perhaps one of the most beloved traditions is its bourbon chocolate walnut pie.

George Kern made up the recipe for the pie when he was the manager of the Melrose Inn in Prospect, Kentucky, with the help of his parents, and it became its specialty. The name "Derby Pie" has been trademarked by the Kern family, which is extremely vigilant about unauthorized use. Their recipe is a secret, but this one is similar to the Melrose Inn's famous version, which has been a tradition at the race since the mid-1950s. Bourbon chocolate walnut pie is similar to another iconic Southern dessert, pecan pie, but with walnuts, chocolate, and an extra kick from Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey; it's also not too dissimilar from chocolate pecan pie. Serve it while you're watching what's known as "the most exciting two minutes in sports."

As for the pie? This gets close, and although that doesn't count in horse races, it more than suffices for this version of this esteemed sweet Kentucky pie. It comes together quickly thanks to the prepared pie crust. Make sure your butter is cool before you combine it with other ingredients—otherwise it may curdle the eggs and melt the chocolate.