Celebrating a true American treasure on Derby Day: "Kentucky Bourbon Walnut Sweet Bread"

As hundreds of thousands gather in Louisville to celebrate the 139th Kentucky Derby, another American treasure is in the spotlight at Churchill Downs, where they expect to serve 120,000 of classic Bourbon drink the Mint Julep today. Kentucky is the birthplace of Bourbon, producing 95 percent of the world’s supply. According to the Kentucky Distillers' Association, Bourbon production in 2012 topped the one million mark for the first time since 1973. Only Kentucky has the perfect natural mix of climate, conditions and pure limestone water necessary for producing the world’s best Bourbon.

Did you know that Bourbon is America’s only and "Official Native Spirit"? This was declared by Congress in 1964. 

On this Derby Day, I made a Bourbon-infused sweet bread. This makes a wonderful dessert and is perfect for a breakfast or tasty snack. Happy Derby Day!  

"Southern Fried Bride's Bourbon Walnut Sweet Bread" 

1 cup brown sugar

1/2 stick butter, softened

1 large egg

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup milk

3/4 cup walnuts

2 tablespoons Kentucky Bourbon

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Coat 9 x 5 x 3 inch loaf pan with cooking spray and sprinkle with flour. In mixing bowl, add flour, baking powder and salt. Stir to combine. Set aside. In separate bowl, cream brown sugar and butter. Beat in egg. Add dry ingredients to mixture. Add milk and mix well. Stir in walnuts. Stir in bourbon. Pour into loaf pan and bake 55-60 minutes or until toothpick inserted in middle comes out clean. Remove from oven and cool 5-10 minutes before removing from pan. Enjoy!