You don’t have to live in Kentucky long to catch the Derby bug. We were there for about ten years, but I was hooked after our very first Derby celebration.
Did I mention that I’ve never actually been to the Kentucky Derby?
Everyone seems shocked when I tell them this. It’s a bit of a long story, but you basically have two choices – the infield with loads of intoxicated folks having a good time where you can’t even get a clear view of the race (or so I’ve been told), or tickets for the Grandstand side which, if you can even get your hands on some, are a bit expensive. Add to that, all the people I know who have gone (on the Grandstand side) and had a less than stellar time to see the big, but very short, race.
Compare that to hanging out at the local race track, Keeneland, in Lexington and watching the race on the big screen or having your own party at home. No traffic, no hot sun, you can still wear a hat if you want and there are plenty of bourbon-based beverages and good food.
What can I say? The latter won out for us every year.
Over those ten Kentucky Derbies, and within the past year, I’ve made a few favorite recipes that are perfect for celebrating the big day. Most with bourbon, some with mint and others with Kentucky classics in mind. There will be more to come in the future, but these should give you plenty of ideas for your own Derby celebration whether you need breakfast, brunch, drinks or dessert.
(Click on the recipe name to go to the recipe.)
Cornmeal Waffles with Bananas Foster Sauce from Jonathan’s Bluegrass Table
Bourbon Sweet Potato Waffles with Maple Cinnamon Butter
Bourbon Banana Scones with Walnuts
Kentucky Bourbon-Vanilla Soaked Cherries
Maple Bourbon Budino with Spiced Pecans from Bakeless Sweets
Looks delicious!!
Thanks, Catherine!