Atlantic Beach Pie

Atlantic Beach Pie is a refreshing dessert that combines a salty crust with a sweet and tangy lemon filling. Perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this pie offers a unique taste experience. The contrast between the crust and the creamy filling makes it stand out, ensuring that every slice is an absolute delight.

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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: Bake the Crust
• Step 4: Prepare the Filling
• Step 5: Assemble and Bake
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Atlantic Beach Pie
• Classic Whipped Cream
• Toasted Coconut Flakes
• Lemon Zest Garnish
• Fresh Berries
• Mint Leaves
• Ice Cream Scoop
• How to Perfect Atlantic Beach Pie
• Best Side Dishes for Atlantic Beach Pie
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Atlantic Beach Pie
• Reheating Atlantic Beach Pie
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Atlantic Beach Pie?
• Can I make Atlantic Beach Pie ahead of time?
• What can I substitute for saltine crackers in the crust?
• How do I ensure my pie filling sets properly?
• Can I add toppings besides whipped cream?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can whip up Atlantic Beach Pie without fuss.
• Flavorful Delight: The combination of sweet lemon and salty crust creates a mouthwatering flavor contrast that will impress your guests.
• Versatile Dessert: Suitable for various occasions—from beach parties to holiday dinners—this pie fits right in anywhere.
• Quick Prep Time: You can prepare this pie in just 20 minutes, making it a go-to dessert when you’re short on time.
• No-Bake Option: While this recipe includes baking, the filling is light and airy, making it feel like a no-bake treat.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the delightful process of making Atlantic Beach Pie, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready ensures a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Makes crushing crackers quick and easy, ensuring uniform texture.
• Rolling pin: Great for crushing crackers by hand when you don’t have a food processor on hand.
• 8-inch pie pan: A standard size that helps achieve the perfect thickness for the crust and filling.
• Whisk: Essential for combining ingredients to create a smooth lemon filling.

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) to ensure it’s hot enough for baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

1. Crush the saltine crackers finely, but avoid turning them into dust.
2. You can use either:
3. A food processor for convenience
4. A plastic bag with a rolling pin to crush them by hand.
5. Add the sugar to the crushed crackers.
6. Knead in the softened butter until the mixture holds together like dough.
7. Press this mixture into an 8-inch pie pan evenly across the bottom and up along the sides.

Step 3: Bake the Crust

1. Chill the crust in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to help it firm up.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 18 minutes or until it turns slightly golden.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

1. While the crust is cooling (it doesn’t need to be cold), beat together:
2. The egg yolks with sweetened condensed milk until well combined.
3. Gradually mix in the lemon juice until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the lemon filling into your cooled crust.
2. Bake again for about 16 minutes or until you see that the filling has set.
3. Allow it to cool completely before slicing; this helps achieve neat slices.

Step 6: Serve

Top each slice with fresh whipped cream before serving for an extra touch of indulgence! Enjoy your delicious Atlantic Beach Pie!

How to Serve Atlantic Beach Pie

Atlantic Beach Pie is a delightful dessert that combines the flavors of sweet lemon and a salty crust, making it a perfect dish for summer gatherings or casual get-togethers. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience with this delicious pie.

Classic Whipped Cream

• Add a generous dollop of fresh whipped cream on top to balance the tartness of the lemon filling.

Toasted Coconut Flakes

• Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes over the whipped cream for an added texture and tropical flavor.

Lemon Zest Garnish

• Grate some lemon zest on top for an extra burst of citrus aroma and visual appeal.

Fresh Berries

• Serve with fresh berries like blueberries or strawberries on the side to complement the pie’s flavors and add freshness.

Mint Leaves

• A few sprigs of mint can brighten up your serving plate and add a refreshing touch.

Ice Cream Scoop

• Pair a slice of Atlantic Beach Pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast to the pie’s tartness.

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How to Perfect Atlantic Beach Pie

To achieve the best results with your Atlantic Beach Pie, consider these helpful tips that will elevate your dessert game.

• Use Fresh Lemon Juice – Freshly squeezed lemon juice enhances the flavor more than bottled options, giving your pie a vibrant taste.

• Chill Before Serving – Allowing the pie to chill completely before slicing ensures cleaner cuts and an optimal texture.

• Crust Consistency – Make sure to crush the saltine crackers finely enough so that they hold together well but not too fine that they become dust.

• Watch Baking Times – Keep an eye on both crust and filling baking times; overbaking can lead to a less desirable texture.

• Experiment with Toppings – Don’t hesitate to try different toppings such as fruit compotes or flavored creams for unique variations.

Best Side Dishes for Atlantic Beach Pie

Pairing side dishes with Atlantic Beach Pie can enhance its flavors and create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Grilled Shrimp Skewers – Lightly seasoned grilled shrimp provide a savory contrast to the sweet pie.

2. Caprese Salad – The freshness of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil complements the pie beautifully while adding color to your table.

3. Cucumber Salad – A light cucumber salad dressed in vinegar offers a refreshing crunch alongside the rich dessert.

4. Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn with garlic butter adds another layer of sweetness and savory depth.

5. Zucchini Fritters – Crispy zucchini fritters bring in vegetables while providing a satisfying crunch that balances the soft texture of the pie.

6. Fruit Salad – A medley of seasonal fruits enhances the freshness while echoing the citrus notes in your pie.

7. Pasta Primavera – A light pasta dish filled with fresh vegetables creates a hearty yet light pairing with Atlantic Beach Pie.

8. Spinach Artichoke Dip – This warm dip served with crispy chips offers rich flavors that contrast nicely with dessert’s sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Atlantic Beach Pie, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Over-crushing the crackers: It’s important to crush the saltine crackers finely but not into dust. This ensures a sturdy crust that holds together well.
• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the crust for 15 minutes before baking helps it set properly. Skipping this step can lead to a soggy bottom.
• Not letting the pie cool completely: Allowing the pie to cool fully before slicing is crucial. Cutting too early can result in a messy presentation.
• Using fresh lemon juice: Always opt for fresh lemon juice instead of bottled. Fresh juice enhances the flavor of your Atlantic Beach Pie significantly.
• Forget about garnish: Don’t overlook fresh whipped cream as a topping. It adds a delightful finish that complements the sweet and tangy filling.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Atlantic Beach Pie in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator without losing its flavor or texture.

Freezing Atlantic Beach Pie

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag; it can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Atlantic Beach Pie

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30-45 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Atlantic Beach Pie?

Atlantic Beach Pie is a delicious dessert featuring a salty cracker crust and a sweet lemon filling. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or cozy nights at home.

Can I make Atlantic Beach Pie ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this pie a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

What can I substitute for saltine crackers in the crust?

If you prefer, you can use graham crackers or even crushed pretzels for an extra salty kick, though this will change the overall flavor profile.

How do I ensure my pie filling sets properly?

Make sure to mix your ingredients thoroughly and bake until just set. Cooling completely is also essential for achieving that perfect slice.

Can I add toppings besides whipped cream?

Absolutely! Consider adding toasted coconut or fresh fruit as additional toppings for added texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Atlantic Beach Pie is not only refreshing but also incredibly versatile. Its unique blend of salty and sweet makes it perfect for any occasion, from summer picnics to festive dinners. Feel free to customize this pie with different toppings or citrus variations to make it your own!