It’s race season and the Kentucky Derby isn’t the only race around. Here in the suburbs of Philadelphia we celebrate all month long with the Radnor Hunt & Steeplechase Races as well as the Devon Horse Show & Country Fair. This means we have bourbon-heavy treats and horse-themed sweets on the mind – anything that can help sustain a full day of bets and wide-brimmed hats. Here are 7 of our derby party must-haves, we even included a recipe for the iconic mint julep, the official, unofficial drink of race season.

Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie We feel like the name says it all – these 6 inch pies are crafted in house by our pastry team and hands-down are promised to be a crowd pleaser. Starting April 25th, these boozy pies of bliss will be available for purchase in both stores while they last.

Pimento Cheese Spread Also known to some as the “Caviar of the South” this cheesy creamy mix of cheddars and pimentos is great for snacking. Perfect as a low maintenance appetizer served alongside artisan crackers, OR up the ante and create mini grilled pimento cheese sandwiches with bacon & tomato. This cheesy dream is also made in house and is available in our stores from now until the end of May.

 

Petite Four Derby Hats These mini assorted cakes in the shape of little hats are adorable and would be a party front runner for sure. Due to limited quantity the petite fours will only be available first come first serve in both stores on 5/1 & 5/2 or while supplies last. You’ll want to be the first out of the gates to secure these fashionable treats.

 

Horsey Themed Cupcakes Win, Place or Show; these derby themed cupcakes were whipped up by our pastry team and taste as good as they look. Available in stores starting 4/30

 

Spruce Hill Honey Bourbon Blueberry Jam Locally made with honest ingredients this boozy springtime jam is perfect with any cheese board. Here at Carlino’s we can’t seem to get enough of it. Currently available in both stores.

 

Bourbon Caramel Pecan Gelato Tis Gelato Season. For a nice twist on a warm day try serving up  our Bourbon Caramel Pecan Gelato made in house. Currently available for single scoop and will be available in pint size by 4/30.

 

Mint Julep Perhaps the crown jewel of our assortment, not only is this cocktail a long standing tradition but its refreshing and pretty much guarantees a good time. That is unless you wouldn’t be excited about holding a refreshing cocktail on a beautiful summer day while wearing a stylish hat.

 

Serves 1

3 ounces bourbon

3/4 ounce rich mint syrup, or to taste

1 bunch mint

Crushed Ice

For the mint syrup, make a rich sugar syrup by heating 2 parts sugar with 1 part water until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is just simmering. Throw in as many mint leaves as will fit in the pan and turn off the heat, stir the leaves, then allow to cool to room temp, a couple of hours. Strain the syrup off the leaves into a clean jar. Should keep in the fridge for a few weeks.