Description
Tangy, creamy, and wrapped in a sweet-meets-salty shell, Atlantic Beach Pie is a sunshine-filled dessert that brings coastal charm to your table. Known for its unique saltine cracker crust and a luscious lemon-lime filling, this Southern classic is as easy as it is impressive. Finished with a cloud of whipped cream and a sprinkle of citrus zest, it’s the perfect ending to any warm-weather meal—or whenever you’re craving a bright and nostalgic treat.
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Ingredients
For the Crust:
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1½ sleeves saltine crackers (about 6 oz or 40 crackers), crushed
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⅓ cup granulated sugar
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10 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
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4 large egg yolks
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1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
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¼ cup fresh lemon juice
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¼ cup fresh lime juice
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1 tsp lemon zest (optional for more punch)
For Topping:
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Whipped cream or whipped topping
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Lemon or lime zest for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Crust
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Crush the saltine crackers into fine crumbs using a food processor or by hand in a sealed bag.
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In a bowl, combine crushed crackers, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until evenly mixed and resembles wet sand.
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Press mixture firmly into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie dish.
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Bake for 15–17 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Filling
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In a medium bowl, whisk egg yolks until smooth.
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Add sweetened condensed milk and mix until fully incorporated.
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Stir in lemon juice, lime juice, and zest until combined.
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Pour filling into the warm crust.
Step 3: Bake the Pie
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Return the pie to the oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the center is just set (a slight jiggle is okay).
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Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight.
Step 4: Add Toppings and Serve
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Before serving, top with whipped cream and garnish with lemon or lime zest.
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Slice and serve chilled for the most refreshing flavor.
Notes
Use Fresh Citrus Juice – Bottled juice can dull the bright, tangy flavor.
Crush Crackers Evenly – Some texture is okay, but keep the crumbs small for a solid crust.
Let It Chill – The pie needs time to set and develop its silky texture.
Don’t Overbake – The filling should still have a slight jiggle in the center.
Make It Your Own – Try an all-lemon or all-lime version, or add a pinch of sea salt on top for an extra coastal vibe.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Cuisine: Southern-American