Today, Kevin and I are reviewing two pies from Kar's Kitchen: the Derby Pie Chocolate Nut Pie and the Golden Pecan Traditional Southern Pie. The Derby Pie weighs 1.4 oz (568 g) and costs $11.99, while the Golden Pecan Pie is 1 lb 8 oz (680 g) and costs $15.99. We purchased both from Kroger.
Derby Pie Chocolate Nut Pie
Key Features:
- Weight and Price: 1.4 oz (568 g), $11.99
- Ingredients: Premium chocolate, choice walnuts, delicate crust
- Packaging: Easy to open, sticky bottom due to the pan
- Preparation: Best sliced while frozen. Serve at room temperature or warm. Ideal when the chocolate pieces are just beginning to melt.
- History: Created by Leodra and Walter Kar in 1954 at the Melrose Inn in Prospect, Kentucky. Each pie is made one at a time according to the original secret recipe.
- Serving Instructions: Slice while frozen, then thaw for 2-3 hours at room temperature or overnight in the refrigerator. Can be heated in the oven for 16 minutes from frozen or microwaved.
- Storage: Best enjoyed within six days if refrigerated or six months if frozen.
- Calories: 370 per 71-gram serving.
Taste and Texture: The Derby Pie is rich with walnuts but lacks a strong chocolate flavor. The crust is soft and lacks crispness, which might be improved by following the recommended preparation method.
Golden Pecan Traditional Southern Pie
Key Features:
- Weight and Price: 1 lb 8 oz (680 g), $15.99
- Ingredients: Premium pecans, custard-like filling, vanilla, delicate airy crust
- Packaging: Easy to handle with padding to avoid mess
- Preparation: Can be warmed before serving.
- Description: Combines premium pecans flash-baked for crunchiness with a silky, custard-like filling and a vanilla flavor. The crust has a better texture compared to the Derby Pie.
- Calories: 400 per 71-gram serving.
Taste and Texture: The Golden Pecan Pie offers a delightful balance of crunchiness and a smooth, custard-like filling. The crust is superior to that of the Derby Pie, providing a better overall texture.
Comparison and Recommendations
While the Derby Pie was somewhat disappointing due to its lack of chocolate flavor and soft crust, the Golden Pecan Pie stood out with its superior texture and balanced sweetness.
Purchasing Tips:
- Kroger: These pies are significantly cheaper at Kroger compared to other local stores like Critchfield Meats.
- Alternative Options: Consider buying a pecan pie from brands like Marie Callender's, available in the frozen dessert section at a lower price.
Conclusion
The Golden Pecan Pie is a clear winner between the two, making it an excellent choice for holiday gatherings. If you're familiar with Kar's Kitchen pies or have tried them in different states, let us know. Your feedback is appreciated, and thanks for watching!
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