Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Make the crust: In a bowl, combine crushed saltines with sugar and melted butter until the texture resembles wet sand. Press firmly into a 9-inch pie dish, covering the bottom and sides.
- Bake the crust for 15 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool slightly.
- Make the filling: In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, and lime juice until smooth.
- Pour filling into the crust and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until just set.
- LIntroduction and Origin
Atlantic Beach Pie is a beloved Southern dessert that beautifully blends sweet, salty, creamy, and citrusy flavors. Originally popularized in North Carolina’s beach towns, this pie was traditionally made by seafood restaurants as a way to end a heavy meal on a bright, tangy note. It’s best known for its unusual but irresistible saltine cracker crust paired with a luscious lemon-lime custard filling, topped with whipped cream. Though it may seem simple, its contrast of textures and flavors creates a surprisingly sophisticated dessert.
Cultural Significance
In Southern coastal communities, meals often end with something light and citrusy to cleanse the palate after fried seafood. Atlantic Beach Pie pays homage to that tradition, offering a refreshing finish that feels nostalgic and homey. Its saltine cracker crust is a nod to the region’s humble pantry staples and seafood heritage. Today, the pie is widely celebrated across the U.S. for its bold contrast of flavors and its Southern charm.
Ingredients Quantity
For the crust:
- 1 ½ sleeves (about 6 oz) saltine crackers, finely crushed
- ⅓ to ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
For the filling:
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- ¼ cup fresh lime juice
For the topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- Lemon or lime zest for garnish (optional)
Optional Additions
- Use only lemon juice or only lime juice for a more focused citrus flavor
- Add a pinch of sea salt to the crust for extra depth
- Top with crushed graham crackers or toasted coconut flakes
- Use pre-made whipped topping for ease, though fresh is best
Tips for Success
- Don’t overbake the filling — it should be just set and slightly wobbly in the center.
- Use fresh citrus juice for the brightest, most authentic flavor.
- Let the pie chill for at least 4 hours before slicing to ensure clean cuts.
- Gently press the cracker crust into the pan with the back of a spoon for an even, compact base.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Make the crust: In a bowl, combine crushed saltines with sugar and melted butter until the texture resembles wet sand. Press firmly into a 9-inch pie dish, covering the bottom and sides.
- Bake the crust for 15 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool slightly.
- Make the filling: In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, and lime juice until smooth.
- Pour filling into the crust and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until just set.
- Let the pie cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Prepare whipped cream by beating heavy cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Spread over the chilled pie.
- Garnish with lemon or lime zest if desired. Slice and serve chilled.
Description
Atlantic Beach Pie is a flavor-packed dessert with a crisp, buttery saltine crust, a tangy-sweet lemon-lime filling, and a soft, airy whipped topping. The saltiness of the crust perfectly balances the citrusy custard, making every bite a delightful surprise. It’s creamy, crunchy, sweet, and savory—all in one.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per slice, 1/8 of pie)
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 220mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugars: 22g
- Protein: 4g
Conclusion and Recommendation
Atlantic Beach Pie is a Southern treasure that brings both comfort and brightness to the table. It’s perfect for summer barbecues, Sunday suppers, or anytime you want a dessert that’s both nostalgic and refreshing. Easy to prepare and even easier to love, this pie is a guaranteed hit with both citrus lovers and skeptics alike.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
To make it a bit more health-conscious, try using low-fat sweetened condensed milk and a lighter whipped topping. You can also substitute part of the butter in the crust with coconut oil or use whole grain crackers. Even with these adjustments, the pie keeps its delicious balance of tangy and sweet while offering a lighter indulgence.