Atlantic Beach Pie

This North Carolina classic strikes the perfect balance between a salty, buttery cracker crust and a tart, creamy citrus filling.¹ It is the ultimate refreshing dessert for a summer day.

Atlantic Beach Pie

Ingredients:

How To Make Atlantic Beach Pie:

Step 1: Prep the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F.

Step 2: Make the Saltine Crust: In a medium bowl, stir together the 1 2/3 cups crushed crackers, 6 tbsp melted butter, 3 1/2 tbsp sugar, 1 egg white, and 1/2 tsp salt. Mix until the crumbs are well-moistened and hold together when pressed.

Step 3: Shape and Chill: Press the cracker mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish to form an even crust. Place the dish in the refrigerator to chill for 25 minutes.

Step 4: Blind Bake: Once chilled, bake the crust for 18–20 minutes or until it just begins to turn a light golden color. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

Step 5: Whisk the Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the 14 oz can of sweetened condensed milk and the 4 egg yolks until smooth.2 Add the 1/4 cup lime juice and 1/4 cup lemon juice, whisking until the mixture thickens slightly and is well combined.

Step 6: Final Bake: Pour the citrus filling into the crust. Bake for 15 minutes or until the edges are set and the center has only a very slight jiggle.

Step 7: Cool and Set: Allow the pie to cool to room temperature on a wire rack, then transfer it to the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours (or until completely firm) before serving.

Step 8: Garnish: Just before serving, top with generous dollops of whipped cream and a sprinkle of fresh lime zest if desired.