The Atlantic Beach Pie is a cherished dessert rooted in the culinary traditions of the North Carolina coast. Sometimes referred to simply as North Carolina Lemon Pie, this dish offers a remarkable combination of sweet, tart, and salty flavors. Its unique crust—made from salted Saltine crackers—sets it apart from other citrus pies, while the creamy filling and bright citrus notes make it a refreshing and satisfying dessert. Whether prepared for a summer gathering, a holiday meal, or a casual treat, this pie consistently impresses with its simplicity and bold flavor.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 and ½ sleeves of Saltine crackers (approximately 60 crackers or 200 grams), salted
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick), at room temperature or melted
For the Filling:
- 4 egg yolks
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup fresh-squeezed lemon juice, lime juice, or a combination of both
- Zest of the lemons or limes used, divided
- A pinch of kosher salt
For the Optional Topping:
- Fresh whipped cream, or
- A yogurt-based topping made from:
- 1 cup plain whole-milk Greek yogurt
- ¼ cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- A small amount of vanilla extract, if desired
- Additional citrus zest and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for garnish
Preparation Time and Yield
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Baking time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes of active preparation plus chilling
- Serves: 6 to 8 people
How to Make It
1. Prepare the Crust
Using a food processor or your hands, crush the Saltine crackers until they are finely broken but not completely powdered. A few small crumbs are acceptable. Transfer the crumbs to a mixing bowl, add the sugar, and stir to combine. Then add the melted or softened butter and mix thoroughly until the crumbs are moistened.
Firmly press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan. Avoid using a deep-dish pan. Place the crust in the freezer for 15 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). After freezing, bake the crust for 12 to 15 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
2. Make the Filling
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sweetened condensed milk until smooth. Add the citrus juice, half of the citrus zest, and a pinch of kosher salt. Whisk until the mixture is fully combined and creamy.
Pour the filling into the slightly cooled crust.
3. Bake and Chill
Bake the filled pie at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 14 to 16 minutes, or until the filling is just set and no longer jiggly in the center. Remove from the oven and allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for 30 to 60 minutes. Then refrigerate the pie for a minimum of four hours, or overnight, until it is thoroughly chilled and the filling is firm.
4. Serve
Before serving, top the pie with freshly whipped cream or the prepared yogurt topping. Garnish with the remaining citrus zest and a light sprinkling of flaky sea salt if desired. Slice and serve cold.
Nutritional Information (Estimated per Serving – 1/8 of Pie)
- Calories: approximately 345 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 40 grams
- Fat: 18 grams
- Protein: 4 grams
- Sugar: 22 grams
- Fiber: less than 1 gram
These values are estimates and may vary depending on the ingredients used and any substitutions.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to four days.
- Freezing: To store for a longer period, slice the pie and wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap. Place them in an airtight container and freeze for up to two months. Thaw slices in the refrigerator before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use only lemons or only limes?
Yes. Either citrus fruit works well. Using a combination of both adds complexity to the flavor.
Why use Saltine crackers for the crust?
The Saltine cracker crust provides a subtle saltiness that perfectly balances the sweetness and tartness of the filling. It is a signature feature of this regional recipe.
Can I prepare this pie in advance?
Absolutely. This pie is ideal for preparing a day ahead. Just be sure to allow ample time for chilling.
Is it possible to make this pie dairy-free?
Yes. You may substitute the butter with plant-based margarine and use a dairy-free sweetened condensed coconut milk. Top with a dairy-free whipped topping or plant-based yogurt.
How do I know when the filling is set?
The filling should appear slightly firm with minimal movement in the center. It will continue to firm up as it chills.
Conclusion
The Atlantic Beach Pie is a uniquely Southern dessert that combines familiar pantry ingredients into an elegant and unexpected final product. Its balance of textures and contrast of flavors—from salty to tart to sweet—make it an unforgettable experience. Whether served at a coastal picnic or as the grand finale to a dinner party, this pie is certain to impress.
If you would like this recipe in a printable format or adapted into a visual recipe card, I would be happy to assist.