Our Best Kentucky Derby-Inspired Recipes for the Big Race
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Celebrate Kentucky's great tradition, also known as the "fastest two minutes in sports," with classic Southern snacks, dreamy Derby pies, and yes, mint juleps.
Yes, you can make a mint julep without bourbon! Gin was an equally popular base back in the 19th century and is still just as delicious in the iconic cocktail, especially if you choose a barrel-aged version.
This robust Southern standby is a hands-down favorite. Our latest, greatest version adds horseradish to the usual mixture of mayonnaise, shredded cheddar, and chopped pimiento for extra kick.
Three types of fresh herbs—parsley, thyme, and chives—and a touch of Dijon perk up our test kitchen's tried-and-true buttermilk biscuits. Serve with more mustard and sliced ham for a satisfying Derby treat.
It's no wonder that these crispy, savory treats are a Southern party favorite. Whip up our go-to Parmesan and cayenne combo or try one of our delectable variations: sesame and poppy seeds, tomato paste and fresh rosemary, or pecorino Romano and black pepper. Just be sure to make plenty—they're bound to disappear quickly from the table.
The Kentucky Derby's signature drink! This refreshing bourbon-based cocktail originated in Virginia and was popularized in Kentucky, and is so beloved that for the past 200 years, the two states have bickered over the correct way that it should be prepared.
A Southern spread wouldn't be complete without black-eyed peas. Here, they're fried until golden and crisp and flavored with a sweet-and-savory blend of brown sugar and smoked paprika.
Iced black tea is spiked with bourbon and brightened with fresh mint in this classic Southern cocktail. It's the perfect partner for finger food like our Mini Corn Cakes with Scallions.
This lovely dessert honors roses, a Kentucky Derby tradition, by transforming poached apple slices into delicate blooms atop a layer of buttermilk cream framed by flaky puff pastry.
This easy and festive-looking bourbon drink is mellowed with sweet amaretto and a splash of sparkling apple juice. Don't forget the maraschino cherries, and pair the punch with an hors d'oeuvre like our Smoked Trout and Garlic Cream on Rye Toasts.
"Run for the Roses" is a nickname for the Kentucky Derby and refers to the blanket of roses draped over the winning horse. It's also the name of this unique take on traditional Derby pie, which combines a buttery crust with a boozy (from bourbon!) pecan-and-chocolate filling.
This dessert used to be served as a wedding cake in Kentucky, where it was traditional for neighbors and friends to contribute a layer. Our version tucks plumped-up dried apples between layers of spiced molasses cake.
The horses may break a sweat, but your guests will stay cool with freshly scooped chilled watermelon. Serve with benne wafers, the crisp sesame seed cookies that hail from the South.
