If you're a fan of classic Southern flavors, then you'll love the delicious and decadent Derby Bars from Smitten Kitchen. These sweet treats are a perfect combination of buttery shortbread, rich chocolate, and crunchy pecans. They're the perfect dessert for any occasion, from a casual family dinner to a fancy dinner party. Plus, they're surprisingly easy to make! So why not give them a try and impress your friends and family with your baking prowess?Smitten Kitchen: Derby Bars
If you're ready to try your hand at making these delicious Derby Bars, then you'll need to gather a few key ingredients. The recipe calls for all-purpose flour, confectioners' sugar, unsalted butter, semisweet chocolate chips, corn syrup, vanilla extract, and chopped pecans. You'll also need a 9x13 inch baking dish and some parchment paper. Make sure to have everything on hand before you start, so you don't have to run to the store in the middle of baking.Smitten Kitchen: Derby Bars Recipe
The first step in making these Derby Bars is to make the shortbread crust. This will serve as the base for the bars and provide a delicious buttery flavor. To make the shortbread, combine the flour and confectioners' sugar in a bowl. Then, cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press this mixture into the bottom of your prepared baking dish and bake for 20 minutes.Step 1: Making the Shortbread
While the shortbread is baking, you can prepare the chocolate layer. In a saucepan, combine the chocolate chips, corn syrup, and butter over medium heat. Once everything is melted and smooth, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Pour this mixture over the baked crust and spread it evenly with a spatula.Step 2: Adding the Chocolate Layer
Next comes the fun part – adding the pecans! Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the chocolate layer, making sure to cover the entire surface. Then, gently press the pecans into the chocolate to ensure they stick. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes.Step 3: Topping with Pecans
Once the bars are done baking, let them cool completely before cutting them into squares. You can speed up the cooling process by placing the dish in the fridge for about 30 minutes. Once they're cooled, use the parchment paper to lift the bars out of the dish and onto a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to cut them into squares, and voila – your Derby Bars are ready to serve!Step 4: Cooling and Cutting
These Derby Bars from Smitten Kitchen are sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them. They're a delicious blend of sweet and salty, crunchy and smooth, and are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Plus, they're easy to make and can be enjoyed on any occasion. So don't hesitate to give this recipe a try and add these delectable bars to your dessert repertoire!Final Thoughts