Atlantic Beach Pie Recipe

If you crave sunshine on a plate, Atlantic Beach Pie is the answer. This charming Southern classic combines a crisp, salty cracker crust with a tangy lemon-lime custard and a pillow of whipped cream—it’s bracing, bright, and downright irresistible.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Part of the reason Atlantic Beach Pie charms everyone is that its ingredient list is so simple—yet each one is crucial. From the salty base to the vibrant citrus, every element brings flavor, texture, or a sunny boost of color.

• Saltine Crackers: These create a uniquely salty, crunchy crust that perfectly contrasts the custard filling.
• Unsalted Butter: Binds the cracker crumbs together and gives the crust richness without overpowering saltiness.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds just a touch of sweetness to balance the tangy and salty notes.
• Large Egg White: Helps the crust hold together during baking, ensuring every slice comes out neat.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: The backbone of the creamy filling, providing sweetness and a silky texture.
• Large Egg Yolks: Enrich and set the filling, making it lush and custardy.
• Fresh Lime Juice: Fresh-squeezed for the bracing tartness that Atlantic Beach Pie is famous for.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: Along with lime, lemon juice adds a layered citrusy flavor—use both for the signature taste!
• Heavy Whipping Cream: Whipped and piled on top for a cool, fluffy finish to each slice.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream effortlessly, letting the citrus notes shine.
• Lemon and Lime Zests: Grate some over the top for an extra pop of color, aroma, and flavor.

Variations

One of the best parts of Atlantic Beach Pie is how easily you can tweak it to suit your mood—or the contents of your kitchen. Don’t be afraid to play around until it’s your signature dessert!

• Graham Cracker Crust: Swap the saltines for graham crackers if you want a sweeter, classic cheesecake-style foundation.
• Citrus Swap: Play with all lemon or all lime juice for a more pronounced single-citrus punch, or even try orange for a sweeter twist.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use full-fat coconut milk instead of condensed milk, and top with coconut whipped cream for a tropical, vegan-friendly version.
• Meringue Topping: Top with billowy toasted meringue instead of whipped cream for a showstopper finish and extra flavor dimension.

How to Make Atlantic Beach Pie

Step 1: Make the Saltine Crust

Start by crushing the saltines into fine crumbs—either with a food processor or by popping them into a zip-top bag and crushing with a rolling pin. In a bowl, mix the crumbs with melted butter, sugar, and a lightly beaten egg white until you get a sandy, cohesive mixture that holds together when pinched. Gently press this mixture into a 9-inch pie plate, taking care to go up the sides evenly. Pop the crust in the freezer for 10 minutes to help it firm up before baking.

Step 2: Bake the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Once the crust is chilled, move it straight into the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, until lightly golden and crisped at the edges. Set it on a wire rack and let it cool for about 10 minutes; this little pause keeps the crust from getting soggy once you fill it.

Step 3: Whisk Up the Filling

While the crust cools, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and egg yolks until completely smooth. Add both the fresh lemon juice and lime juice, and whisk until well blended—the aroma will perk you right up! Pour this mixture into your warm crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Step 4: Bake the Pie

Return the pie to the oven (still at 350°F) and bake for about 15 minutes. The filling should be just set and a little jiggly in the center—think gentle wobble, not slosh. Remove the pie and cool for 1 hour at room temperature. Then, refrigerate the Atlantic Beach Pie for at least 2 hours until it’s well chilled and sliceable.

Step 5: Whip and Top

When you’re ready to serve, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar together until you get soft, lush peaks. Spread the whipped cream over the top, leaving a stunning rim of golden custard exposed. Finish with a playful shower of lemon and lime zest for color and a little extra zing. Heaven!

How to Serve Atlantic Beach Pie

Garnishes

I love to finish a cold slice of Atlantic Beach Pie with vibrant ribbons of lemon and lime zest. Not only does it make the pie look extra inviting, but it also adds a fragrant lift that perfectly complements the citrusy custard. If you’re feeling fancy, edible flowers or a scattering of fresh berries also make a beautiful accent for special occasions.

Side Dishes

Since this pie is both bright and creamy, keep the rest of your meal light and refreshing. I love pairing it with simple grilled seafood, a fresh summer salad, or even a slender asparagus quiche for brunch. And don’t forget an icy glass of sweet tea or bubbly lemonade!

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving Atlantic Beach Pie in individual mason jars for a picnic-ready treat or create mini tartlets for a chic dessert buffet. A dramatic slice on a colored plate, artfully topped with whipped cream and zest, turns any gathering into a celebration. Or, surprise guests by assembling a “build-your-own” pie bar with different citrus curds and crust options for a fun, interactive twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, cover the pie tightly (without the whipped cream) and store it in the refrigerator for up to four days. Add fresh whipped cream and zest just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze Atlantic Beach Pie (without the whipped cream topping) for up to a month. Wrap the pie—whole or sliced—in plastic wrap and a layer of foil. Defrost in the fridge overnight before topping and serving for near-fresh results.

Reheating

This citrusy pie is definitely best served cold, but if you need to take the chill off, leave slices at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause the custard to separate or become rubbery.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Atlantic Beach Pie is pure sunshine, just waiting to brighten your table—and your day. I hope you’ll give it a try and share it with loved ones; it’s sure to become a new favorite that brings plenty of smiles (and requests for the recipe)! Enjoy every tangy, creamy, dreamy bite.

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