Making this pie was easy and delicious...i have also substituted the bourbon with brandy...rum and flavored vodka and it comes out equally good

We made this on race day last year and really enjoyed it. For those of you considering a substitution for the bourbon, be aware that the pie may taste sweeter than usual (the bourbon really helps to balance the sweetness). Conversely, for those of you who find this pie too sweet and don't mind bourbon, you can add more, either in the pie or drizzled on before serving. In response to DutchKathy, the "topping" on the pie is primarily carmelized sugar from the pie mixture itself.

This pie worked well to make - good crust, easy to make, but BOY was it sweet - I had reduced the sugar a bit

Chef Sandy -
The confusion over the name arises from the fact that when the episode originally aired and the recipe came online, it was called "Derby Pie." The site then quickly changed the name to its current appellation, presumable after getting contacted by the trademark owners...

This pie is traditionally called "Derby Pie". I make a similar one without the whiskey. I've been told it tastes like a giant chocolate chip cookie (with pecans of course). It may have a trademark if you call it "Derby Pie" but as you can see Martha's recipe is NOT called that. There is no lattice, that's just the way the mixture containing flour sets up.

A question - in the photo there appears to be a "lattice" or some kind of texture on top in a light color...What could this be? The ingredients and directions don't give me a hint of how this comes up to the top, with the chocolate. Is it the pecans? Thanks!

Why don't they trade mark kentucky trade mark the Erby d nay ie p nay my goodness all this just gives them more ublicity p nay Everyone around kentucky is very Obediant and afraid of awerys l nay Trademaking atohnay K nay

I made this yesterday and its amazing. Very easy to make.

I think Brad and John Hennegan's Run for the Roses Pie tastes as authentic as a Derby Pie. I've finally found a Derby-like pie recipe that is very delicious and every bit as rewarding to make--great crust, Martha. I am baking and taking this pie to a housewarming party this evening. Thanks!

I think making this pie without bourbon will be something like trying to make a mint julep without the booze. Probably best to make something else. However, a good, healthy dose of vanilla extract (or vanilla and almond extracts) would probably be the best substitute for a teetotaler version.

For the lady who doesn't have bourbon on hand, you can go to the liquor store and buy a really small bottle, you don't have to buy a large litre.

This looks like a pretty good standard recipe for Derby Pie. Pursuant to KentuckyPatti's comment, guess Martha will have to worry about the legal implications on that comment.....maybe by adding the word Kentucky in front of it makes the trade name infraction moot.

Everyone needs to know that Derby Pie is trademarked by the Kern's Company. They actively pursue anyone who uses the term. Since the show is much higher profile than most of the club cookbooks and local diners who receive visits from the company's attorneys, I thought you should be aware of it. Everyone around Kentucky calls their version something like Kentucky Bourbon Pie or Race Day Pie. The company is very aggressive about their trademark.

I live alone and don't have a use for bourbon. What can I substitute? Maybe apple cider or juice?

Not having Bourbon in the house, I am wondering if the pie will still taste good without it?

Brad