This Atlantic Beach Pie is a Southern classic that captures the essence of summer with its bright citrus flavors and buttery crust. Originating from the coastal Carolinas, this pie is a delightful combination of a salty Ritz cracker crust, a creamy lemon-lime filling, and a dollop of whipped cream on top. It’s light, refreshing, and incredibly easy to make—perfect for picnics, potlucks, or any occasion when you want a taste of sunshine. Let’s whip up this iconic dessert and savor every tangy, buttery bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Just a few ingredients and minimal prep time.
- Perfectly Balanced: Sweet, tangy, and slightly salty—a flavor explosion in every bite.
- No-Bake Filling: No need to turn on the oven for the filling—ideal for hot summer days.
- Crowd-Pleasing: A show-stopping dessert that’s always a hit at gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups crushed Ritz crackers (about 1 sleeve)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2–3 lemons)
- ¼ cup fresh lime juice (about 1–2 limes)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- Optional: Grated zest of lemon or lime for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers, sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of the pie dish to form an even crust.
- Bake the crust for 8–10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
2. Prepare the Filling
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
- Stir in the fresh lemon and lime juice until fully combined. The mixture will thicken slightly as you mix.
- Pour the filling into the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or until the filling is set and firm.
3. Whip the Cream
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar together until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the whipped cream over the chilled pie or dollop it onto each slice before serving.
4. Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle grated lemon or lime zest over the whipped cream for a pop of color and extra zing.
- Slice and serve chilled, ideally with a forkful of whipped cream and crust in every bite.
Serving Suggestions
- For Dessert: Pair with a glass of iced tea or sparkling water for a refreshing finish to any meal.
- At Gatherings: Bring to summer barbecues, beach parties, or holiday dinners—it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
- With Extras: Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a salty-sweet twist, or drizzle with caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
- Meal Prep: Make ahead and store in the fridge for up to 2 days—just add the whipped cream before serving.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon and lime juice make all the difference in flavor—avoid bottled juice if possible.
- Crush Crackers Evenly: Use a food processor or a zip-top bag and rolling pin to crush the Ritz crackers into fine crumbs for a smooth crust.
- Chill Thoroughly: Allow enough time for the pie to set in the fridge—it should be firm to the touch before slicing.
- Make It Ahead: Assemble the pie a day in advance and top with whipped cream just before serving for stress-free entertaining.
Final Thoughts
This Atlantic Beach Pie is a celebration of simplicity and bold flavors, bringing a taste of the coast to your dessert table. With its buttery, salty crust and tangy citrus filling, it’s a refreshing departure from heavy, overly sweet desserts.
So grab some lemons, limes, and Ritz crackers, and whip up this easy, no-fuss pie. One bite of this creamy, zesty delight, and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a sunny seaside escape—one tangy, buttery slice at a time! 🥧🍋
