Atlantic Beach Pie

Bright, creamy, and just the right balance of sweet and salty, Atlantic Beach Pie is a coastal classic that’s as simple to make as it is satisfying. With a buttery saltine cracker crust and a luscious lemon-lime filling topped with whipped cream, this no-fuss pie is perfect for spring, summer, or anytime you’re craving a refreshing dessert with a tangy twist.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Salty-Sweet Perfection – The saltine crust adds a delicious contrast to the creamy citrus filling.
Simple Ingredients – Just a handful of pantry staples are needed.
Quick to Make – Easy prep with a short bake and cool time.
Refreshing & Light – A bright finish after a heavy meal.
A Southern Favorite – A beloved recipe with coastal Carolina roots.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Saltine Crust:

• 1½ sleeves saltine crackers (about 40 crackers), crushed
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar

For the Lemon-Lime Filling:

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 4 large egg yolks
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• ¼ cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
• Zest of 1 lemon or lime (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Topping:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• Lemon or lime zest for garnish (optional)

Tools You’ll Need

• 9-inch pie dish
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Electric mixer (for whipped cream)
• Spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Crust
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a medium bowl, mix crushed saltines, melted butter, and sugar until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish.
Bake for 15 minutes, until lightly golden. Let cool slightly while preparing the filling.

Step 2: Make the Filling
In a bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk and egg yolks until smooth.
Add the lemon and lime juice (and zest if using), and whisk until fully combined.
Pour the filling into the pre-baked crust.

Step 3: Bake the Pie
Return the pie to the oven and bake for 15–17 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is just slightly jiggly.
Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours (or overnight) to fully set.

Step 4: Make the Whipped Cream
In a cold mixing bowl, beat 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 and Serve
Top with a sprinkle of lemon or lime zest, if desired.
Slice and serve cold. Enjoy the bright, silky filling with every salty-sweet bite.

Tips for Best Results
Crush Crackers by Hand – A mix of fine and coarse crumbs adds great texture.
Use Fresh Citrus Juice – Bottled juice doesn’t have the same zing.
Chill Thoroughly – The pie slices best when very cold.
Don’t Overbake – The filling should still have a slight wobble when removed from the oven.
Make Ahead – Prepare the night before for the best flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions
As a Summer Dessert – Ideal for BBQs, picnics, or beachside meals.
With Iced Tea – Southern sweet tea makes the perfect pairing.
After Seafood – A fresh finish to a fish fry or shrimp boil.
Holiday Twist – Swap in blood orange juice for a festive version.
Mini Pies – Bake in muffin tins for easy individual servings.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Cover tightly and store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Freeze without whipped topping for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating:
Not recommended. This pie is best enjoyed chilled.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use Ritz crackers instead of saltines?
   Yes! Ritz will give a slightly richer, more buttery flavor but still work well.
2. Can I make this without eggs?
   Eggs help thicken the filling, but you can experiment with cornstarch or egg replacers for an egg-free version.
3. Can I use all lemon or all lime juice?
   Yes. Adjust to your taste preference for a more lemon-forward or lime-forward pie.
4. Is it supposed to be tart?
   Yes, but the condensed milk balances the citrus with plenty of sweetness.
5. Can I use whipped topping instead of fresh whipped cream?
   Absolutely. Store-bought whipped topping is a great shortcut.

Final Thoughts
Atlantic Beach Pie is the kind of dessert that instantly transports you to warm breezes, ocean air, and carefree afternoons. With its creamy, tangy filling and unique cracker crust, it’s a Southern classic that’s made for sunshine and smiles. It’s light enough for hot days but rich enough to feel special, making it a go-to pie for all seasons.

Bake one today and discover why this humble pie has won hearts far beyond the Carolina coast.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: 3 hours
Cuisine: American–Southern

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 370 | Protein: 5g | Carbohydrates: 38g | Fat: 22g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 280mg

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