Atlantic Beach pie

Atlantic Beach Pie

Atlantic Beach Pie served on a plate

Atlantic Beach Pie is a traditional dessert originating from the coastal regions of North Carolina, particularly associated with the town of Atlantic Beach. This pie is renowned for its unique combination of sweet and salty flavors, making it a beloved treat among locals and visitors alike.

History

The origins of Atlantic Beach Pie can be traced back to the seafood restaurants along the North Carolina coast. It was traditionally served as a dessert following a seafood meal, as it was believed that consuming dairy after seafood could be harmful. The pie's popularity grew over the years, becoming a staple in the region's culinary landscape.

Ingredients

The key ingredients of Atlantic Beach Pie include a saltine cracker crust, a lemon or lime custard filling, and a whipped cream or meringue topping. The use of saltine crackers for the crust is what gives the pie its distinctive salty-sweet flavor profile.

Crust

Crushing saltine crackers for the crust

The crust is made by crushing saltine crackers and mixing them with melted butter and sugar. This mixture is then pressed into a pie pan to form the base of the pie.

Filling

Preparing the lemon custard filling

The filling is a simple custard made from sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, and freshly squeezed lemon or lime juice. The acidity of the citrus juice is balanced by the sweetness of the condensed milk, creating a refreshing and tangy flavor.

Topping

Whipping cream for the topping

The pie is traditionally topped with either whipped cream or meringue. Whipped cream is often preferred for its light and airy texture, which complements the dense custard filling.

Preparation

Assembling the pie

To prepare Atlantic Beach Pie, the crust is first baked until golden brown. The custard filling is then poured into the crust and baked until set. After cooling, the pie is topped with whipped cream or meringue and chilled before serving.

Serving

Atlantic Beach Pie is typically served chilled, making it a refreshing dessert option, especially during the warm summer months. It is often garnished with a sprinkle of sea salt or a slice of lemon or lime for added flavor and presentation.

Cultural Significance

Atlantic Beach Pie holds a special place in the culinary traditions of North Carolina. It is a symbol of the region's coastal heritage and is often featured in local food festivals and events. The pie's unique flavor and simple preparation have contributed to its enduring popularity.

Related Pages

• Key lime pie
• Lemon meringue pie
• North Carolina cuisine