Name: Atlantic Beach Pie: A Refreshing Citrus Delight You’ll Love
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 180 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Saltine Crackers (Crushed); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Melted); 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar; 1 large Egg White (Beaten); 1 can Sweetened Condensed Milk; 3 large Egg Yolks; 1/4 cup Fresh Lime Juice (Or equal amount of lemon juice); 1/4 cup Fresh Lemon Juice (Fresh is key for taste); 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream; 2 tablespoons Powdered Sugar; 1 tablespoon Lemon and Lime Zest (For garnish)

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As I sat on the porch, the warm Southern breeze wrapped around me, carrying with it the tantalizing scent of citrus and a promise of indulgence. That’s when I remembered my favorite Atlantic Beach Pie, a delightful dish that captures the essence of summer with its refreshing flavors and a delightful salty-sweet crust made from Saltine crackers. This easy recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a low-fat dessert option, making it perfect for those sunny gatherings. With just 45 minutes of prep (plus chilling time), you’ll be on your way to crafting a confection that marries a smooth, creamy filling with a playful crunch. Curious about how to bring a slice of coastal charm to your own kitchen? Let’s dive in!

Why is Atlantic Beach Pie a must-try?

Delightfully Simple: This recipe requires minimal effort, allowing anyone to create a stunning dessert without stress.

Refreshing Citrus Flavor: The zingy lime and lemon make each slice a burst of summer sunshine, perfect for warm days.

Unique Crust: The salty-sweet Saltine cracker crust contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling, offering a flavor profile that’s utterly irresistible.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or a dinner party, this pie is bound to impress family and friends.

Versatility at Its Best: Feel free to customize with toppings or create mini versions for easy serving, just like you could with Peanut Butter Pies!

Perfectly Light: Enjoy a satisfying dessert that feels indulgent while staying low-fat—ideal for those mindful of their caloric intake.

Atlantic Beach Pie Ingredients

• Get ready to make a delightful Southern treat!

For the Crust

Saltine Crackers – Provides a salty-sweet base for the crust; graham crackers can add a different flavor profile.
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and helps bind the crust together; consider using coconut oil as a dairy-free option.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the crust; try maple sugar or coconut sugar for a twist.
Egg White – Acts as a binder for the crust; an egg substitute like flaxseed mixed with water works great for a vegan option.

For the Filling

Sweetened Condensed Milk – Forms the creamy filling that ensures the pie sets; use a lactose-free version if desired.
Egg Yolks – Add richness and help thicken the filling; aqua faba makes an excellent vegan substitute.
Fresh Lime Juice – Provides a tart burst; feel free to swap it in equal amounts for fresh lemon juice for a different citrus flavor.
Fresh Lemon Juice – Enhances the overall citrus profile, ensuring every bite is fresh and vibrant; fresh juice is key for the best taste.

For the Topping

Heavy Whipping Cream – Used to create a luscious topping; coconut cream can be a perfect non-dairy alternative.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and stabilizes the whipped cream; erythritol can be swapped for a sugar-free version.
Lemon and Lime Zest – For a burst of flavor and color garnish that brings the whole pie together!

With these ingredients, you’re just a whisk and a bake away from enjoying a refreshing Atlantic Beach Pie that is sure to become a family favorite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Atlantic Beach Pie

Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that when you’re ready to bake your Atlantic Beach Pie, the temperature is just right for achieving that perfect, creamy filling. Set a timer and take a moment to enjoy the anticipation of the deliciousness to come!

Step 2: Prepare Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine crushed Saltine crackers, melted unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and the beaten egg white. Stir until everything is fully incorporated. Transfer this mixture into a 9-inch pie plate, pressing it firmly into the bottom and up the sides to form a sturdy crust. Look for a light golden color on the edges for visual confirmation.

Step 3: Chill Crust
Place the prepared crust in the freezer for about 10 minutes. This quick chill helps to firm up the cookie crust, making it easier to slice later. While it chills, you can start prepping the filling. This step is crucial for ensuring your crust maintains its shape while baking.

Step 4: Mix Filling
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, fresh lime juice, and fresh lemon juice until smooth. The mixture should be creamy and well-blended, with no lumps. This luscious filling is what makes your Atlantic Beach Pie so delightful, so take your time to combine it thoroughly.

Step 5: Bake Filling
Carefully pour the filling into the chilled crust, spreading it evenly. Slide the pie into the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. The center should still be slightly jiggly; it will continue to set as it cools. Keep an eye on it and enjoy the tempting aroma wafting through your kitchen!

Step 6: Cool
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for about 1 hour. This cooling is essential for allowing the filling to firm up properly. Afterward, refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours to get that refreshing chill that’s perfect for serving.

Step 7: Whip Cream
As the pie cools, take a moment to whip your heavy cream. In a mixing bowl, beat it along with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. This luscious whipped cream will provide a rich topping, so be careful not to overbeat—it should be airy and smooth, ready to crown your Atlantic Beach Pie.

Step 8: Top Pie
Once your pie is completely cooled, dollop the freshly whipped cream over the top, spreading it evenly while leaving a bit of the custard visible around the edges. This creates lovely contrast and is sure to impress anyone who sees it. Finish by garnishing with lemon and lime zest for that extra burst of flavor!

Step 9: Serve
Slice the Atlantic Beach Pie into generous portions and serve it chilled. For the best experience, store it without the whipped cream for up to 4 days in the fridge and add the topping just before serving. Get ready to share a slice of this delightful dessert with family and friends!

How to Store and Freeze Atlantic Beach Pie

Room Temperature: Keep the Atlantic Beach Pie at room temperature for up to 2 days, but remember to cover it with a clean cloth or foil to maintain freshness.

Fridge: Store the pie covered in the fridge for up to 4 days without whipped cream. Adding the topping just before serving helps preserve its light texture.

Freezer: You can freeze the pie for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating: The pie is best enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer it at room temperature, simply remove it from the fridge and let it sit for about 30 minutes before slicing.

Expert Tips for Atlantic Beach Pie

Crust Firmness: Ensure the cracker mixture is pressed firmly into the pie plate to prevent a crumbly crust after baking. A tight base holds everything together!
Filling Consistency: If the filling seems runny after the initial baking time, bake for an additional 5 minutes. It will continue to set as it cools.
Whipping Cream Caution: Avoid over-beating the whipped cream. Stop as soon as stiff peaks form for the best topping texture; this keeps it smooth and airy.
Storage Secrets: Store your Atlantic Beach Pie without whipped cream for maximum freshness. Add the cream just before serving to keep it light and fluffy.
Flavor Enhancements: Consider adding a pinch of salt to the crust for extra flavor, enhancing the delightful salty-sweet contrast that pairs perfectly with the citrusy filling.

Make Ahead Options

Atlantic Beach Pie is a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal prep! You can prepare the crust up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the Saltine crackers, butter, sugar, and egg white, pressing it firmly into the pie plate, and then storing it in the refrigerator. The filling can be mixed and stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, just make sure to cover it tightly to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply pour the filling into the crust and bake as instructed. Finish by whipping the cream right before serving for the best texture and indulge in a delicious, homemade dessert that’s just as delightful as if made fresh!

What to Serve with Atlantic Beach Pie

As you savor the deliciously refreshing vibes of this Southern dessert, consider elevating your meal with these delightful pairings.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits like strawberries and cantaloupe offers a light, refreshing contrast to the creamy pie.
Lemon Sorbet: The icy tartness of lemon sorbet enhances the citrus notes of the pie, making for a cool and tangy complement that’s perfect for summer.
Green Salad with Vinaigrette: A crisp salad with a tangy dressing provides a refreshing palate cleanser, balancing the rich flavors of the Atlantic Beach Pie beautifully.
Grilled Shrimp Skewers: The smoky flavor of grilled shrimp paired with a zesty marinade echoes the pie’s citrusy charm and adds a savory touch to your meal.
Buttery Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter will ground your meal, bringing a subtle sweetness that pairs well with the pie’s tartness.
Iced Tea with Mint: This classic Southern drink offers a refreshing sip that cuts through the richness of the pie and enhances the overall dining experience.
Coconut Cream Pie: For those who love layered desserts, serving coconut cream pie alongside adds a tropical twist that resonates with the flavors of Atlantic Beach.

By bringing together these elements, you can create a full meal that will have everyone reminiscing about their favorite summer days!

Atlantic Beach Pie Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to customize this delightful dessert and make it uniquely yours, adding your favorite twists or dietary swaps!

Dairy-Free: Replace heavy whipping cream with coconut cream for a luscious, dairy-free topping.
Sugar-Free: Use erythritol or any sugar alternative in place of granulated sugar for a low-calorie option.
Fresh Citrus Burst: Experiment with different citrus juices like orange or grapefruit for a refreshing flavor twist in the filling.
Crunchy Topping: Add crushed nuts or granola on top of the whipped cream for extra crunch and texture.
Mini Pies: Create individual Atlantic Beach Pies in muffin tins for an easy, grab-and-go dessert option that’s perfect for parties.
Fruit Compote: Top with a fresh fruit compote, such as mixed berries or peach, for a burst of color and additional flavor.
Layered Delight: Make a layered version by alternating the filling with whipped cream, creating a stunning parfait-style dessert.
Salted Caramel Drizzle: Enhance the flavor by drizzling a salted caramel sauce over the whipped cream—sweet and salty goodness awaits!

Each variation brings a unique flair to your Atlantic Beach Pie, giving you endless possibilities to enjoy this classic dish. Plus, if you’re ever in the mood for something sweet yet different, you might like these Peanut Butter Pies or even a classic Cream Cheese Pie for more culinary inspiration!

Atlantic Beach Pie Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for my Atlantic Beach Pie?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, select limes and lemons that are firm with a vibrant color and a fragrant aroma. Avoid any that have dark spots or feel mushy; freshness is key for that zesty citrus burst!

What is the best way to store Atlantic Beach Pie?
You can store your Atlantic Beach Pie in the fridge for up to 4 days, covered and without the whipped cream. This keeps the pie fresh and ensures its deliciousness. If you plan to keep it longer, wrap it well and pop it in the freezer for up to 1 month.

Can I freeze Atlantic Beach Pie?
Yes, you can freeze it! Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil for maximum protection against freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge for about 6-8 hours before serving for the best texture.

What can I do if my filling is too runny?
If your filling appears runny after baking, don’t worry! Simply return it to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes. This should help it thicken properly. Remember, the filling will continue to set as it cools—so be patient!

Are there any dietary considerations with Atlantic Beach Pie?
Certainly! If you’re looking for dairy-free options, substitute the sweetened condensed milk with a lactose-free version and use coconut cream for the topping. For egg substitutes, consider using aqua faba or a mix of flaxseed and water. This way, everyone can enjoy this bright and zesty pie!