Atlantic Beach Pie – The Salty-Sweet Coastal Dessert That Became a Legend
If summer had a signature dessert along the Carolina coast, this would be it. Atlantic Beach Pie is bright, creamy, and unapologetically salty-sweet — a slice that tastes like sunshine, sea air, and barefoot afternoons.
Born on the North Carolina coast, this pie flips the usual script: a saltine cracker crust instead of graham crackers, a tangy citrus filling, and a cloud of whipped cream on top. It’s simple, refreshing, and shockingly addictive — the kind of pie people try once and immediately ask for the recipe.
Classic Atlantic Beach Pie
Ingredients
Saltine Cracker Crust
-
1½ sleeves saltine crackers (about 60 crackers), finely crushed
-
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
-
3 tbsp sugar
Citrus Filling
-
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
-
4 large egg yolks
-
½ cup fresh lemon juice (traditional)
or a mix of lemon + lime juice
Topping
-
1 cup heavy whipping cream
-
2 tbsp powdered sugar
-
Optional: lemon zest or flaky sea salt
Instructions
1) Preheat
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a 9-inch pie plate.
2) Make the Crust
-
Mix crushed saltines, melted butter, and sugar.
-
Press firmly into the bottom and sides of the pie plate.
-
Bake 15 minutes, until lightly golden.
-
Cool slightly.
3) Make the Filling
-
Whisk condensed milk and egg yolks until smooth.
-
Whisk in citrus juice until thickened.
4) Bake the Pie
Pour filling into the warm crust.
Bake 15–18 minutes, just until set (center should jiggle slightly).
5) Cool
Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate at least 2 hours.
6) Top & Serve
Whip cream with powdered sugar to soft peaks.
Spread or dollop over chilled pie.
Garnish with zest or a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt.
Why Atlantic Beach Pie Works
-
Saltine crust adds crunch and contrast
-
Condensed milk + citrus creates silky, tangy filling
-
Minimal baking keeps it light and fresh
-
Whipped cream balances acidity perfectly
It’s a beach pie through and through — bright, breezy, and unforgettable.
Tips for the Best Atlantic Beach Pie
-
Crush crackers finely for a tight crust
-
Press crust firmly so it slices clean
-
Use fresh citrus juice for best flavor
-
Don’t overbake — it sets as it chills
-
Chill well before slicing for neat wedges
Serving Suggestions
-
After a seafood dinner
-
At summer cookouts and potlucks
-
With iced tea or lemonade
-
Garnished simply — it doesn’t need much
FAQ – Atlantic Beach Pie
Why saltine crackers instead of graham crackers?
The salt is the secret — it balances the sweet-tart filling and makes the pie memorable.
Can I use limes instead of lemons?
Yes. Lemon is traditional, but lime or a lemon-lime mix works beautifully.
How long does it keep?
Refrigerated, it keeps well for 3–4 days.
Can I freeze Atlantic Beach Pie?
Yes — freeze without whipped cream up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge and top fresh.
