Our Best Kentucky Derby-Inspired Recipes to Enjoy on the Day of the Big Race

A lemon twist, plus fresh juice, sets this invigorating mint julep apart. Pair it with simple canapes, such as our Speedy Smoked-Salmon Crackers.

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.

Keep your Kentucky Derby fare light and springy with a rose-petal gin fizz. Beware, its sweetness covers its potency—this drink is made with gin, rose-petal syrup, sparkling water, and rose petals.

This quick, 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.

This robust Southern standby is a hands-down favorite. Our latest and greatest version adds horseradish to the usual mixture of mayonnaise, shredded cheddar, and chopped pimiento for an extra kick.

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.

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.

Three types of fresh herbs—parsley, thyme, and chives—and a touch of Dijon perk up our test kitchens tried-and-true buttermilk biscuits. Serve with more mustard and sliced ham for a satisfying Derby bite.

Fire up the grill for your Kentucky Derby party and gild your burgers with the Southern trifecta of mayo, cheddar, and pimientos.

Whole pecans are nestled in a dark-chocolate filling and surrounded by a buttery crust in this next-level take on the beloved Southern dessert.

A true culinary work of art, this apple rose tart features mandolin-sliced Granny Smith and Pink Lady apples atop grated ginger mixed with apricot jam for a spicy-sweet Kentucky Derby delight.

"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.

A classic Kentucky drink, bourbon makes for a delicious accompaniment in this sweet treat. It's paired with brown sugar and berry cake sprinkled with coarse sugar for a surprising crunchy top.

Rose water adds a delicate floral bouquet to meltaway sandwich cookies, each topped with a candied violet or rose petal. This recipe makes about two and a half dozen—perfect for Kentucky Derby celebrations.