Atlantic Beach Pie

 

🥧 Atlantic Beach Pie: A Sweet & Salty Slice of Coastal Comfort

If you’ve never tried Atlantic Beach Pie, get ready to fall in love with one of the South’s best-kept dessert secrets. Hailing from the coastal regions of North Carolina, this refreshing pie is the perfect balance of sweet, salty, creamy, and citrusy — like sunshine in every bite.

Traditionally served by the shore after seafood meals, this pie has become a beloved Southern staple that’s now winning hearts everywhere. And once you learn how easy it is to make, it might just become your go-to dessert year-round.

---

🍋 What Is Atlantic Beach Pie?

Think of it as the citrus cousin to key lime pie, but with a few delicious twists:

• A buttery, salty cracker crust (usually made with saltines)

• A creamy lemon-lime filling

• Topped with whipped cream or meringue, and often garnished with sea salt or lemon zest

The contrast of sweet citrus custard with the savory crunch of the crust is what makes it so unforgettable.

---

📝 Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ sleeves saltine crackers (about 6 oz or 35 crackers)

• ⅓ cup sugar

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk

• 4 egg yolks

• ½ cup fresh lemon juice

• 2 tablespoons lime juice (optional, but adds great depth)

For the Topping:

• Fresh whipped cream (or whipped topping)

• Lemon zest or a pinch of flaky sea salt for garnish

---

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Make the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Crush the saltines finely (but not into dust — small chunks are good for texture).

3. In a bowl, combine the cracker crumbs with sugar and melted butter. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand.

4. Press the mixture firmly into a 9-inch pie dish, pushing it up along the sides.

5. Bake the crust for 15 minutes, then let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sweetened condensed milk until smooth.

2. Stir in the lemon and lime juice until fully combined — the mixture will slightly thicken.

3. Pour the filling into the pre-baked crust.

Step 3: Bake the Pie

• Bake the pie for 15–18 minutes, or until the filling is just set (it should jiggle slightly in the center).

• Let the pie cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) before serving.

Step 4: Add Toppings

• Just before serving, top with whipped cream, a little lemon zest, and an optional pinch of flaky sea salt for that classic “Atlantic” twist.

---

🌊 Why It Works

• The saltine crust is unexpectedly delicious — salty, crunchy, and perfectly complements the tart filling.

• The lemon-lime combo adds brightness and depth beyond a typical citrus pie.

• It’s easy to make, uses simple pantry ingredients, and needs no fancy equipment.

---

🍴 Serving Tips

• Serve chilled, ideally after a savory meal.

• Pair with iced tea, lemonade, or even a glass of chilled white wine.

• Keeps well in the fridge for 2–3 days — if it lasts that long!

---

💬 Final Thoughts

Atlantic Beach Pie is one of those rare desserts that feels both comforting and elegant — the kind of treat that transports you to a breezy coastal porch with every bite. Whether you’re celebrating summer, hosting a dinner party, or just want a little slice of sunshine, this pie is always a crowd-pleaser.

Try it once, and you’ll understand why this Southern gem is earning a national fan base. 🥧🌞