25 Easy Kentucky Derby Recipes for Kentucky Derby Day

Explore this list of Kentucky Derby recipes for Kentucky Derby Day. From refreshing cocktails to filling mains, we’ve got your celebration covered.

Kentucky Derby Day is all about enjoying a festive atmosphere that brings everyone together.

This day is steeped in tradition, from the exciting races to the iconic mint julep cocktails and Derby pies. Why not prepare homemade meals for your loved ones on this special day?

It’s a perfect opportunity to create lasting memories with friends and family by enjoying good food, fun hats, and the thrill of the races right from your home.

Mini Pecan Pies

These mini Pecan pies are delightful sweet treats that scream Southern charm.

They feature a crispy crust filled with a rich, gooey pecan mixture. The texture is a lovely contrast between the crunchy nuts and the soft filling.

Get The Recipe: Mini Pecan Pies

Deviled Eggs with Relish

These eggs are must-haves for your Derby Day lineup. They are creamy and smooth, with a zesty kick from the pickle relish.

Arrange them on a platter with paprika and fresh dill to enhance their flavors and visual appeal.

Get The Recipe: Deviled Eggs with Relish

Red Velvet Waffles and Chicken

Enjoy cocoa-flavored red velvet waffles with crispy, savory fried chicken. This recipe is as exciting as the Kentucky Derby itself.

The waffles are fluffy, with a chocolatey taste that pairs beautifully with the juicy fried chicken.

Get The Recipe: Red Velvet Waffles and Chicken

Cornbread (Without Buttermilk)

This cornbread is an excellent addition to any Kentucky Derby Day meal. It’s a fluffy, slightly sweet bread that’s crispy around the edges.

The main ingredients include cornmeal, flour, sugar, and eggs. You can prepare this in 30 minutes. 

Get The Recipe: Cornbread (Without Buttermilk)

Benedictine Spread

Make this a part of your Derby Day spread. It’s made from cream cheese, cucumber, and onions, resulting in a smooth texture with a hint of crispness from the cucumber bits.

This savory treat is elegant, light, and delicious.

Get The Recipe: Benedictine Spread

Mint Julep Punch

No Kentucky Derby Day would be complete without a nod to the classic mint julep. This variation is perfect for serving a crowd.

It combines the refreshing flavors of mint with bourbon and sweet syrup. Serve it in a large punch bowl and garnish with extra mint sprigs.

Get The Recipe: Mint Julep Punch

Black Eyed Susan Cocktail

Who doesn’t love easy, fruity concoctions? This drink is a blend of vodka, whiskey, orange juice, and sour mix, offering a refreshing flavor with a tangy kick.

It’s simple to prepare and ideal for serving at large gatherings.

Get The Recipe: Black Eyed Susan Cocktail

Rosemary Brown Derby

This vibrant cocktail pairs the robust flavors of bourbon with the tangy zest of grapefruit.

It also has a hint of rosemary for an aromatic touch. You’ll love this refreshing version of the classic Brown Derby.

Get The Recipe: Rosemary Brown Derby

Kentucky Bourbon Mule

Looking for a fun twist on the classic Moscow mule? Try substituting vodka with rich Kentucky bourbon.

This drink combines bourbon, lime juice, ginger beer, and garnishes like cinnamon sticks. It offers a zesty flavor profile with a kick of ginger.

Get The Recipe: Kentucky Bourbon Mule

Vegan Southern Potato Salad

This potato salad is perfect for those looking for a plant-based option at their Derby Day feast.

It’s creamy and delicious yet skips traditional ingredients like eggs and mayo. It features potatoes, celery, and pickles tossed in a rich, creamy sauce.

Get The Recipe: Vegan Southern Potato Salad

Fried Buttermilk Chicken Tenders

These chicken tenders have a crunchy, golden coating that’s irresistibly delicious.

They’re marinated in buttermilk for tenderness and deep-fried for a crispy exterior. Make them a hearty addition to your Derby Day spread.

Get The Recipe: Fried Buttermilk Chicken Tenders

Brown Sugar Bars

These brown sugar bars are like softer, chewier versions of cookie bars.

They are loaded with rich brown sugar and butter flavors, creating a caramel-like taste. Make a huge batch for your loved ones to enjoy on Derby Day.

Get The Recipe: Brown Sugar Bars

Bourbon Pecan Pie

This Pecan pie version combines the classic Southern pecan treat with a splash of Kentucky bourbon.

It features a caramelized filling of pecans, corn syrup, and bourbon, all set in a flaky crust. It’s a decadent treat that perfectly captures the spirit of the Kentucky Derby.

Get The Recipe: Bourbon Pecan Pie

Kentucky Hot Brown Dip

This dish is inspired by the famous Kentucky hot brown sandwich!

It takes all the beloved elements—turkey, bacon, tomato, and a cheese sauce—and transforms them into a gooey dip that is perfect for sharing.

Get The Recipe: Kentucky Hot Brown Dip

Mint Julep Cupcakes

These cupcakes infuse the classic flavors of the mint julep cocktail into a sweet treat.

They are flavored with mint and bourbon and then topped with a refreshing minty frosting. They’re a festive and fun addition to any Derby Day menu.

Get The Recipe: Mint Julep Cupcakes

Kentucky Bourbon Beef Jerky

This beef jerky is a smoky snack made with slices of beef marinated in a rich blend of Kentucky bourbon, soy sauce, and various spices.

It’s perfect for snacking during the races, offering robust and satisfying flavors.

Get The Recipe: Kentucky Bourbon Beef Jerky

Benedictine Cheese Canapés

These canapés are small, elegant appetizers featuring a cucumber and cream cheese spread known as Benedictine, a Kentucky staple.

They are light and refreshing, with a hint of onion for added flavor. Serve them with your favorite bread or crackers.

Get The Recipe: Benedictine Cheese Canapés

Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies

These cookies are a treat for anyone who enjoys the rich flavors of bourbon and chocolate.

The recipe involves soaking pecan pieces in bourbon to infuse them with flavor before mixing them into the dough. Pair them with a cold glass of milk or coffee.

Get The Recipe: Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies

Kentucky Blackberry Bourbon Cocktail

The drink is made with blackberry simple syrup, bourbon, club soda, a dash of bitters, and a squeeze of lime.

It’s smooth, refreshing, and not overly sweet. For a larger gathering, simply scale up the recipe and serve it as a party punch.

Get The Recipe: Kentucky Blackberry Bourbon Cocktail

Spicy Pimento Cheese

Give this Southern classic a fiery twist with the addition of jalapeños and a blend of spices.

It also includes cheddar cheese, cream cheese, mayo, and pimentos. This spread is perfect for jazzing up crackers, sandwiches, or even as a burger topping.

Get The Recipe: Spicy Pimento Cheese

Kentucky’s Turkey Sandwich

This iconic sandwich features an open-faced setup with smoked turkey, tomato, and a rich Mornay sauce.

For an authentic Kentucky experience, it’s served on garlic Texas toast and covered with a combination of Asiago and white cheddar cheeses.

Get The Recipe: Kentucky’s Turkey Sandwich

Gluten Free Fried Chicken

This crispy treat is perfect for those who enjoy classic fried chicken but need a gluten-free option.

It’s made by marinating chicken in buttermilk and coating it with a mixture of gluten-free flour, cornmeal, and various spices.

Get The Recipe: Gluten Free Fried Chicken

Blackberry Mint Julep Cocktail

This Kentucky Derby Day, enjoy a creative twist on the traditional mint julep.

This version introduces juicy blackberries and a dash of simple syrup to the classic bourbon and mint combination. Garnish it with mint for a festive and aromatic touch.

Get The Recipe: Blackberry Mint Julep Cocktail

Biscuits and Gravy

This beloved Southern dish features soft, flaky biscuits paired with creamy sausage gravy.

It’s a quick and satisfying meal that only takes about 25 minutes to prepare. The gravy, made with flour and milk, complements the buttery biscuits perfectly.

Get The Recipe: Biscuits and Gravy

Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake

Do you love salted caramel desserts? Explore this easy recipe for a delicious treat.

It yields a moist pound cake infused with butter-rum caramel syrup. The finishing touch is a thick, salted caramel glaze with sea salt drizzled over the top.

Get The Recipe: Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake

Preparing a homemade feast for Kentucky Derby Day can be an exciting experience.

Plan your menu ahead of time and prepare some traditional Derby dishes like hot browns and mint juleps.

Keep it simple, have fun with it, and your guests will cherish the effort and the festive spirit of your gathering.