Atlantic Beach Pie
Atlantic Beach Pie
Ingredients
For the Crust
Saltine crackers – 1 ½ sleeves (about 1 ½ cups, finely crushed)
Delivers a lightly salty crunch that perfectly balances the sweet, citrusy filling.
Unsalted butter – ½ cup (1 stick), melted
Binds the crumbs together while adding rich flavor.
Granulated sugar – 3 tablespoons
Adds just enough sweetness to enhance the crust’s flavor.
For the Filling & Topping
Sweetened condensed milk – 1 can (14 oz)
Provides creamy texture and luscious sweetness.
Large egg yolks – 3
Create richness and help the filling set smoothly.
Fresh lemon juice – ½ cup
Adds bright citrus tang that defines the pie’s refreshing flavor.
Lemon zest – 1 tablespoon
Intensifies the citrus notes with fresh, fragrant oils.
Whipped cream – for topping
A light, fluffy finish that balances the pie’s tartness.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven and Crust
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish. In a mixing bowl, stir together the crushed saltine crackers, melted butter, and sugar until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of the dish to form a crust.
2. Bake the Crust
Place the crust in the oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until lightly golden and set. Remove and let it cool completely before adding the filling.
3. Mix the Filling
In a separate bowl, whisk the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, lemon juice, and lemon zest until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
4. Fill and Bake Again
Pour the lemon filling into the cooled crust. Return the pie to the oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the filling is just set in the center.
5. Cool and Chill
Allow the pie to cool on the counter until it reaches room temperature. Then transfer it to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or until the pie is completely firm and cold.
6. Finish and Serve
Top the chilled pie with a generous layer of whipped cream and a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest for brightness. Slice, serve, and enjoy this refreshing citrus dessert.