Description
Bright, creamy, and refreshingly tangy, Atlantic Beach Pie is a classic Southern dessert with a twist. Originating from the North Carolina coast, this pie features a salty-sweet cracker crust (yes, crackers!) filled with a luscious lemon-lime custard and topped with whipped cream. It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures—simple to make, yet unforgettable with every bite.
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Ingredients
For the Crust:
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1 ½ sleeves (about 6 oz) saltine crackers, crushed (not too fine)
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⅓ cup granulated sugar
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½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
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4 large egg yolks
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1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
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¼ cup fresh lemon juice
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¼ cup fresh lime juice (or use all lemon if preferred)
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Zest of 1 lemon or lime (optional for extra brightness)
For the Topping:
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1 cup heavy whipping cream
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2 tbsp powdered sugar
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½ tsp vanilla extract
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Lemon or lime zest, for garnish
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Crushed saltines or graham cracker crumbs (optional garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Cracker Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a medium bowl, combine crushed saltine crackers and granulated sugar.
Add the melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles damp sand.
Press the crust evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan.
Bake for 15 minutes until golden and set.
Let cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Citrus Filling
In a medium bowl, whisk the egg yolks until smooth.
Add sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, lime juice, and zest if using.
Whisk until fully combined and creamy.
Step 3: Fill & Bake
Pour the filling into the slightly cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the center is just set (it should jiggle slightly).
Remove from the oven and cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours.
Step 4: Make the Whipped Cream
In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled pie.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle lemon or lime zest on top for a fresh pop of color.
Optional: Add a pinch of crushed saltines or graham crumbs for crunch.
Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
Crush Crackers by Hand – A bit of texture makes the crust extra delicious.
Use Fresh Citrus Juice – Bottled juice lacks the brightness of freshly squeezed.
Chill Thoroughly – This pie sets up best after at least 3 hours in the fridge.
Don’t Skip the Salt – The salty crust is what makes this dessert uniquely addictive.
Whipped Cream Matters – Freshly whipped cream is key for a light, creamy topping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: 30 minutes (including crust and filling)