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Perfect Mini Derby Chocolate Walnut Pie for Two

mini derby chocolate walnut pie - featured image

A rich and indulgent mini pie recipe perfect for two, featuring dark chocolate, toasted walnuts, and a gooey caramel-like filling with an optional touch of bourbon for authentic Derby pie flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pre-made 4-inch mini pie crusts
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, toasted
  • 1/3 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon bourbon (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Toast the walnuts by spreading 1/2 cup chopped walnuts on a baking sheet and baking for 5-7 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned. Let cool.
  3. Place each mini pie crust into 4-inch pans, gently pressing into edges. Crimp edges if desired.
  4. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/3 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt.
  5. Add 2 tablespoons melted butter, 1 large room-temperature egg, 1 tablespoon bourbon (if using), and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
  6. Fold in the toasted walnuts and 1/3 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
  7. Divide the filling evenly between the two crusts, filling almost to the top but leaving a small gap to prevent overflow.
  8. Place pies on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes until the filling bubbles and crust edges are golden. Tent with foil after 20 minutes if crust browns too fast.
  9. Let pies cool for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set slightly but remain gooey.

Notes

If filling seems too runny, chill in the fridge before baking. Watch walnuts carefully while toasting to avoid burning. Blind bake crusts for 5 minutes to prevent sogginess (optional). Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently in a 300°F oven. For nut-free, dairy-free, or gluten-free versions, see recipe variations.

Nutrition

Keywords: mini pie, Derby pie, chocolate walnut pie, dessert for two, easy pie recipe, bourbon pie, Southern dessert