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    Home » Roundups

    Kentucky Derby Food Ideas For A Party

    Published: May 1, 2025 by bobbieblue

    463 shares
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    The Kentucky Derby is said to be the most exciting 2 minutes in sports and there are plenty of celebrations leading up to this race. When hosting a Derby party keep your guests entertained with traditional southern inspired recipes that are commonly served in Kentucky. Make a Kentucky hot brown dip for a twist on the classic open-faced sandwich and a spicy beer cheese for your guests to graze on. Of course no Derby party is complete without a classic mint julep, a bourbon drink infused with a mint simple syrup or a chocolate pecan derby pie!

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    Mint Julep Punch

    Photo Credit: Pizzazzerie

    This twist on the classic mint julep has fruity citrus added for a drink you can sip all day while enjoying the festivities before the Kentucky Derby.

    Get the recipe: Mint Julep Punch

    Kentucky Derby Pie Recipe (Bourbon Pecan)

    Photo Credit: Adore Foods

    This classic Kentucky Derby Pie is loaded with pecans, chocolate chips and a touch of bourbon. This decadent dessert will be the star of any derby party.

    Get the recipe: Kentucky Derby Pie Recipe (Bourbon Pecan)

    Easy Frozen Mint Julep Slushie

    Photo Credit: XOXO Bella

    This frozen slushie version of a mint julep is the perfect way to cool down on derby day. Made with mint simple syrup, bourbon and ice this drink is quick and easy to make and makes several servings for a small gathering.

    Get the recipe: Easy Frozen Mint Julep Slushie

    Authentic Kentucky Beer Cheese Recipe

    Photo Credit: Blue's Best Life

    This Kentucky Beer Cheese recipe is a family recipe that has been made for years. Made with a light beer, Velveeta cheese and plenty of spices, this cheese spread is perfect for dipping.

    Get the recipe: Authentic Kentucky Beer Cheese Recipe

    The PERFECT Bourbon Old Fashioned Cocktail

    Photo Credit: XOXO Bella

    This classic drink is made with a premium bourbon and a handful of other ingredients. This drink takes only a minute to make this delicious cocktail recipe.

    Get the recipe: The PERFECT Bourbon Old Fashioned Cocktail

    Raspberry Bourbon Smash Cocktail

    Photo Credit: XOXO Bella

    This refreshing raspberry bourbon smash cocktail is made with fresh raspberries and Chambord, a raspberry liqueur. It is a perfect spring drink to serve on Derby Day.

    Get the recipe: Raspberry Bourbon Smash Cocktail

    Benedictine Spread

    Photo Credit: Best Appetizers

    Benedictine spread is a delicious blend of cucumbers, cream cheese and herbs that was originally invented as a spread for tea sandwiches. This tasty spread is a favorite in Kentucky and served at Derby parties. It is perfect with a mint julep!

    Get the recipe: Benedictine Spread

    The Best Mint Julep Recipe

    Photo Credit: The G&M Kitchen

    Make your own mint simple syrup for these amazing mint juleps. They are the iconic drink served at the Kentucky Derby since the early 1800's.

    Get the recipe: The Best Mint Julep Recipe

    Kentucky Hot Brown Dip Inspired Grazing Board

    Photo Credit: Tonya Staab

    The Kentucky hot brown was originally a sandwich invented in Louisville, KY. This appetizer is a spin on this recipe, making a dip that can easily be served at a party.

    Get the recipe: Kentucky Hot Brown Dip Inspired Grazing Board

    Kentucky Buck Cocktail

    Photo Credit: Sidewalk Shoes

    This cocktail is made with ginger beer and whisky for a refreshing beverage. The muddled strawberries add a light fruity flavor.

    Get the recipe: Kentucky Buck Cocktail

    The Best Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies

    Photo Credit: The G&M Kitchen

    This is not your ordinary chocolate chip cookie! These cookies start out with bourbon soaked pecans for an unbelievable cookie recipe.

    Get the recipe: The Best Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies

    Rosemary Brown Derby (Bourbon and Grapefruit Cocktail)

    Photo Credit: The Forked Spoon

    This Rosemary Brown Derby is made with fresh grapefruit juice, bourbon and rosemary for a delightful cocktail that is perfect for sipping on while watching the Derby festivities!

    Get the recipe: Rosemary Brown Derby (Bourbon and Grapefruit Cocktail)

    Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake

    Photo Credit: Chenee Today

    This buttery pound cake is topped with a salty caramel glaze. This is the most delicious Kentucky Butter Cake recipe, perfect for a Derby party.

    Get the recipe: Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake

    Maker's Mark Mint Julep

    Photo Credit: Comfort Food And Drinks

    Follow this recipe to learn how to craft a perfect mint julep recipe with just the right amount of mint and sweetness.

    Get the recipe: Maker's Mark Mint Julep

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    Hi, I'm Bobbie! Welcome to Blue's Best Life. I'm a self-taught cook that loves to cook wholesome meals while still enjoying a truly decadent dessert, because there is always room for a little something sweet!

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