Atlantic Beach Pie: A Coastal Classic with a Zesty Twist

 

🥧 Atlantic Beach Pie: A Coastal Classic with a Zesty Twist

If sunshine had a flavor, it would taste a lot like Atlantic Beach Pie—cool, citrusy, creamy, and just the right amount of sweet. Born on the coast of North Carolina, this retro Southern dessert is making a delicious comeback for good reason: it’s easy to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for summer gatherings or year-round indulgence.

What makes Atlantic Beach Pie stand out? A buttery saltine cracker crust and a zippy citrus filling that feels like a seaside breeze in every bite.

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🌊 A Slice of Coastal History

This pie traces its roots to the beach communities of the North Carolina coast, where it was once believed that eating dessert after seafood was bad for digestion—unless it was lemon pie. Enter: Atlantic Beach Pie. Created as a nod to that old superstition, it’s become a favorite far beyond the beach.

Developed and popularized by chef Bill Smith of Crook’s Corner in Chapel Hill, this pie is now a cherished staple for anyone who loves a tangy twist on tradition.

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📝 Ingredients

For the crust:

• 1 1/2 sleeves saltine crackers (about 6 oz)

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

• 3 tablespoons sugar

For the filling:

• 4 large egg yolks

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (or a mix of lemon and lime)

• Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for extra zing)

For topping:

• Fresh whipped cream

• Flaky sea salt or lemon zest for garnish

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👩‍🍳 How to Make Atlantic Beach Pie

1. Make the Crust

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Crush the saltines (by hand or in a food processor) until you have coarse crumbs—not dust!

• Mix in the sugar and melted butter until it holds together like wet sand.

• Press firmly into a 9-inch pie dish, covering the bottom and sides.

• Bake for 15 minutes, or until golden brown. Let it cool slightly.

2. Prepare the Filling

• In a bowl, whisk together egg yolks and sweetened condensed milk until smooth.

• Add lemon juice (and zest, if using), and whisk until fully combined and slightly thickened.

• Pour into the baked crust.

3. Bake Again

• Return the pie to the oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, until the filling is just set (a slight jiggle in the center is perfect).

• Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours.

4. Top and Serve

• Once chilled, top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of sea salt or lemon zest for a bright finish.

• Slice and enjoy your little taste of the Carolina coast!

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🍋 Why You'll Love Atlantic Beach Pie

• ✅ Unique crust: Saltines give it a salty-sweet contrast that’s unexpectedly perfect.

• ✅ Bright, tangy filling: Lemon and lime add a refreshing punch.

• ✅ No-fuss recipe: Easy to throw together, even last-minute.

• ✅ Perfect for warm weather: Cool, creamy, and citrusy—what more could you want?

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💡 Tips & Variations

• Try a lime version: Use key lime juice for a Florida-inspired twist.

• Make it mini: Turn the recipe into individual tarts for parties or picnics.

• Use Ritz crackers if you prefer a richer, buttery crust instead of saltines.

• Top with meringue if you like it extra fancy.

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🏖️ Final Thoughts

Atlantic Beach Pie is one of those rare desserts that feels both nostalgic and refreshing at the same time. With its crisp, salty crust and velvety citrus filling, it’s a bite of summer no matter what season you’re in.

Whether you’re baking it for a backyard BBQ, a potluck, or just because you’re craving something bright and beautiful, this coastal classic is bound to become a new favorite.

So grab your lemons, crush those crackers, and let the beachy vibes roll in. 🌞