Craving a dessert that’s both refreshing and bursting with flavor? Look no further than this Atlantic Beach Pie recipe! Originally a beloved staple in seafood restaurants along North Carolina’s coast, this pie combines the tangy zest of lemon and lime with a buttery, salty saltine cracker crust for a truly unforgettable experience. Each bite is a perfect balance of sweet, tart, and savory, making it the ultimate summer dessert. Whether you’re hosting a beachside gathering or simply treating yourself, this easy-to-make pie is sure to impress. One taste, and you’ll understand why this coastal favorite has stood the test of time!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- Saltine crackers, finely crushed (about 1 sleeve) – 1 ⅔ cups
- Butter, melted – 6 tablespoons
- Granulated sugar – 3 ½ tablespoons
- Egg white, lightly beaten – 1
- Salt – ½ teaspoon
For the Filling:
- Sweetened condensed milk – 1 (14 oz) can
- Egg yolks, lightly beaten – 4
- Fresh lime juice – ¼ cup (about 2-3 large limes)
- Fresh lemon juice – ¼ cup (about 2 lemons)
For Topping:
- Whipped cream – As desired
- Lime zest – For garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix crushed saltine crackers, melted butter, sugar, egg white, and salt until fully combined.
- Press the cracker mixture evenly into a 9-inch pie dish and refrigerate for 25 minutes.
- Once chilled, bake the crust for 18-20 minutes until lightly golden. Set aside to cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the condensed milk and egg yolks until smooth. Add the lime and lemon juice and whisk again until fully combined.
- Pour the filling into the cooled crust and bake for 15 minutes, or until the center has a slight jiggle.
- Let the pie cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of lime zest before slicing.
- Enjoy this bright, creamy, and utterly irresistible dessert!
