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


 


For the Crust:

  • 30 saltine crackers (or 1½ cups crushed Ritz)
  • 6 tbsp (¾ stick) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1–2 tbsp sugar (optional, for a hint of sweetness)

For the Filling:

  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
  • ½ cup fresh lemon juice (about 3 lemons)
  • ¼ cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 3 tbsp heavy cream or milk (for smoothness)
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • ½ tsp lime zest

For the Topping:

  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
  • 2 tbsp powdered sugar
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract
  • Optional: flaky sea salt or lime slices for garnish

🍳 Instructions

  1. Make the crust
    • Crush saltines into fine crumbs (use a food processor or zip-top bag + rolling pin).
    • Mix with melted butter and sugar (if using).
    • Press firmly into a 9-inch pie dish, covering the bottom and sides.
    • Chill for 15 minutes.

  1. Prepare the filling

    • In a bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, lime juice, cream, and zests.
    • Pour into the crust.
    • Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (best overnight).

  2. Add the whipped topping

    • Just before serving, whip cold cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla to stiff peaks.
    • Spread or pipe over the chilled pie.

  3. Serve

    • Slice and serve cold.
    • Garnish with a sprinkle of sea salt or lime slices.

❄️ Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.

✅ Tips for the Best Pie

Usefresh citrus juice
Bottled juice lacks brightness
Don’t skip thezest
Adds intense citrus flavor
Chill the pieovernight
Filling sets perfectly
Whip creamright before serving
Stays fluffy and fresh
TryRitz crackersfor a buttery crust
A tasty variation on the original

🔄 Easy Variations to Try

Key Lime Version
Use all lime juice — a citrus cousin
Coconut Twist
Add 2 tbsp coconut milk to the filling
Berry Swirl
Swirl in raspberry or strawberry sauce
Vegan Option
Use dairy-free condensed milk and coconut cream
Mini Pies
Make in mason jars or tart pans for parties

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Can I use graham crackers instead?

Yes — but it changes the flavor. Stick to saltines or Ritz for the true sweet-salty contrast.

❓ Can I make it ahead?

Yes! Assemble the pie (without whipped cream) up to 2 days ahead. Add topping just before serving.

❓ Is it the same as Key Lime Pie?

Similar, but lighter and saltier — the crust makes all the difference.

❓ Can I freeze it?

Not recommended — the texture of the filling and whipped cream doesn’t hold up well.

Final Thoughts

Atlantic Beach Pie isn’t just a dessert — it’s a taste of coastal life.

It’s the kind of pie that shows up at seafood feasts, backyard barbecues, and Sunday dinners — light enough after a rich meal, bold enough to remember.

So next time you’re craving something refreshing, simple, and full of sunshine…
skip the meringue.

Skip the oven.

Make Atlantic Beach Pie instead.

Because the best summer desserts aren’t complicated —
they’re zesty, salty, and served with a smile. 😊