Atlantic Beach Pie

The Atlantic Beach Pie is a delightful dessert that perfectly balances salty and sweet flavors. This pie features a unique crust made from saltine crackers and a luscious lemon filling that is bound to impress your guests. Ideal for summer gatherings, picnics, or any festive occasion, this dessert offers a refreshing twist that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Its easy preparation makes it accessible for bakers of all skill levels, making it a must-try recipe!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Crust
• For the Filling
• For Garnish
• How to Make Atlantic Beach Pie
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Crust
• Step 3: Form and Bake the Crust
• Step 4: Prepare the Filling
• Step 5: Bake the Pie
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Atlantic Beach Pie
• Classic Serving
• Fruit Garnishes
• Creative Twists
• How to Perfect Atlantic Beach Pie
• Best Side Dishes for Atlantic Beach Pie
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Atlantic Beach Pie
• Reheating Atlantic Beach Pie
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Atlantic Beach Pie?
• How do I make my crust extra flaky?
• Can I use other citrus juices in Atlantic Beach Pie?
• How can I customize my Atlantic Beach Pie?
• Is Atlantic Beach Pie suitable for special diets?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor Combination: The salty crust pairs beautifully with the creamy lemon filling.
• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious dessert in no time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a holiday dinner, this pie fits right in.
• No-Bake Option: It can be served chilled, making it great for hot days.
• Versatile Serving Ideas: Dress it up with fresh fruit or toasted coconut for extra flair.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Atlantic Beach Pie, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything runs smoothly. These tools will help you achieve the perfect crust and filling without any hassle.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Rolling pin
• 8-inch pie pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Speeds up the process of crushing the saltine crackers to the perfect texture.
• Rolling pin: Handy for crushing crackers if you prefer a manual method.
• 8-inch pie pan: The ideal size for this recipe, ensuring even baking of your pie.
• Whisk: Essential for mixing ingredients thoroughly, especially when combining the egg yolks with milk and lemon juice.

Ingredients

The salty crust and a sweet lemon filling is a winning combination that makes this pie delicious.

For the Crust

• 60 saltine crackers (about a sleeve and a half)
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 3 tablespoons sugar

For the Filling

• 14 oz. sweetened condensed milk
• 4 egg yolks
• ½ cup lemon juice

For Garnish

• Fresh whipped cream

How to Make Atlantic Beach Pie

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your crust will bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

1. Crush the saltine crackers finely, but avoid turning them into dust. You can use:
2. A food processor for quick results.
3. A plastic bag and rolling pin if you prefer doing it manually.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed crackers with sugar, then knead in the softened butter. Mix until the crumbs hold together like dough.

Step 3: Form and Bake the Crust

1. Press the mixture into an 8-inch pie pan.
2. Chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to set slightly.
3. Bake in preheated oven for 18 minutes or until you see slight browning on the crust.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

1. While your crust is cooling (it doesn’t need to be cold), beat together:
2. The egg yolks
3. The sweetened condensed milk
4. The lemon juice
5. Mix well until fully combined.

Step 5: Bake the Pie

1. Pour the filling into your baked shell.
2. Bake again for about 16 minutes until filling has set.
3. Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing.

Step 6: Serve

Once cooled, serve with generous dollops of fresh whipped cream on top! Enjoy your refreshing Atlantic Beach Pie!

How to Serve Atlantic Beach Pie

Serving Atlantic Beach Pie is a delightful experience, as this dessert can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply indulging with family, these serving suggestions will elevate your pie experience.

Classic Serving

• Fresh Whipped Cream: Top each slice generously with homemade whipped cream for a creamy contrast to the tangy lemon filling.
• Lemon Zest: Grate some lemon zest over the whipped cream for an extra burst of citrus flavor and visual appeal.

Fruit Garnishes

• Berries: Serve with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries to add sweetness and color to your plate.
• Mint Leaves: A sprig of fresh mint not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the freshness of the pie.

Creative Twists

• Toasted Coconut: Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes over the top for added texture and a tropical feel.
• Citrus Slices: Place thin slices of lemon or lime on the side for a zesty garnish that complements the pie’s flavor.

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How to Perfect Atlantic Beach Pie

Achieving the perfect Atlantic Beach Pie requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your pie turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh lemons for juice and zest; this enhances the flavor significantly.
• Chill Your Crust: Allow your crust to chill before baking. This helps maintain its shape and prevents sogginess.
• Beat Well: When mixing the filling, make sure it’s well combined for a smooth texture that sets perfectly.
• Cool Completely: Letting the pie cool completely before slicing is crucial for clean, beautiful slices.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Atlantic Beach Pie

Pairing side dishes with Atlantic Beach Pie can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options to consider:

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits like melons, berries, and citrus compliments the pie’s flavors beautifully.
2. Ice Cream: Vanilla or coconut ice cream provides a creamy contrast that pairs wonderfully with the tartness of the pie.
3. Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of mild cheeses such as brie or goat cheese to balance sweetness with savory notes.
4. Pecan Sandies: These buttery cookies add crunch and richness without overpowering the pie’s flavors.
5. Greek Yogurt Parfaits: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fruit for a refreshing side that contrasts well with dessert.
6. Savory Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in vinegar offers a crisp bite that complements the rich filling of the pie.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Atlantic Beach Pie, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Over-crushing the crackers: Crushing the saltine crackers too finely can lead to a dense crust. Aim for small crumbs, not dust, for the right texture.
• Not chilling the crust: Skipping the chilling step may cause the crust to shrink during baking. Always chill for at least 15 minutes before baking.
• Underbaking the filling: If you don’t bake the filling long enough, it may not set properly. Ensure it’s baked until just set for the best results.
• Serving while warm: Cutting into your pie while it’s still warm will result in a messy slice. Allow it to cool completely before serving for clean slices.
• Using bottled lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice provides better flavor than bottled versions. Always opt for fresh lemons when making your filling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Atlantic Beach Pie

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating Atlantic Beach Pie

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and reheat covered with foil until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Use short intervals of 15-20 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Not recommended as it may alter the texture of the filling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Atlantic Beach Pie that can help you perfect your dessert.

What is Atlantic Beach Pie?

Atlantic Beach Pie is a delicious dessert featuring a salty cracker crust filled with a sweet and tangy lemon cream filling.

How do I make my crust extra flaky?

To achieve a flakier crust, ensure you use softened butter and combine it well with the crushed crackers without overworking it.

Can I use other citrus juices in Atlantic Beach Pie?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with lime or orange juice for a unique twist on this classic recipe.

How can I customize my Atlantic Beach Pie?

You can add toppings like toasted coconut or fresh fruit to enhance flavor and presentation.

Is Atlantic Beach Pie suitable for special diets?

This pie can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free crackers and adjusting other ingredients accordingly.

Final Thoughts

Atlantic Beach Pie is a delightful combination of salty and sweet flavors that make it perfect for any occasion. Its simplicity allows room for customization, whether you want to add toppings or try different citrus fruits. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its refreshing taste!