If you don’t live in Kentucky you may wonder why I’m even writing this post. The second Saturday in May is the equivalent of a Kentucky state holiday. It’s the day when the greatest 2 minutes in sports takes place at Churchill Downs in Louisville, KY. It’s also the reason for weeks of events leading up to the big race. We’re going to a Derby party and I’m going to bake some pies. I can’t call them by their real, trademarked name, but let’s just call them “Run For The Roses” Pies. (note: or Mary’s Bluegrass Pies – see above.)
At post time on Saturday, May 2nd- 6:04 p.m. EST – tune in and watch the Kentucky Derby on your big screen. All around Kentucky parties celebrate this grand race. Women wear fancy hats with abandon. Mint Juleps are mixed with a flourish. Here are a few recipes you might like to try on this grand day:
Oven Baked Chex Mix (this isn’t traditional for a Kentucky Derby party, but a bowl of this on bar would sure be good!)
Kentucky-style Slow-Cooker Pork Barbecue
One Pan Blondies (I suggest substituting Kentucky Bourbon whisky for the vanilla extract if you have Bourbon on hand. If you don’t have any Kentucky Bourbon on hand, go buy some and make a Mint Julep too.)
One Pan Brownies (These are pretty darn good. Make a stunning platter of bar cookies by baking both the blondies AND the brownies. After cooling and cutting the bars, combine them on a large platter or tray.)
Mary’s Bluegrass Pies (or make piettes!)