The Delightful Recipe for Atlantic Beach Pie
Introduction
Welcome to the delightful world of Atlantic Beach Pie! In this article, we will take you on a culinary journey to discover the exquisite recipe for Atlantic Beach Pie and indulge in its tangy and sweet flavors. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this delectable dessert that is sure to leave you craving for more.
What is Atlantic Beach Pie?
Atlantic Beach Pie is a tantalizing dessert that perfectly balances tanginess and sweetness. It is a pie made with a simple yet heavenly combination of ingredients including a buttery crust, a luscious lemon filling, and a fluffy topping of whipped cream. The pie gets its name from the coastal town of Atlantic Beach, North Carolina, where it originated.
Origin of Atlantic Beach Pie
The origin of Atlantic Beach Pie can be traced back to the shores of North Carolina. Legend has it that the recipe was created by a local restaurant owner named Bill Smith. He wanted to create a dessert that captured the essence of the coastal region and showcased the vibrant flavors of the ocean and the citrus fruits that thrived in the area.
Inspired by the traditional lemon pies found in the South, Bill Smith introduced a unique twist to his creation by incorporating a crust made from saltine crackers. The choice of crackers adds a delightful saltiness and crunch to the pie, perfectly complementing the tangy lemon filling. This unconventional addition became the defining feature of Atlantic Beach Pie and set it apart from other lemon pies.
Conclusion
Now that you have a glimpse into the world of Atlantic Beach Pie, get ready to embark on a culinary adventure and create this delectable dessert in your own kitchen. Stay tuned for the rest of the article, where we will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to make Atlantic Beach Pie and share some exciting tips for serving and variations to try. Get ready to indulge in a slice of heaven with this tangy and sweet treat!
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lime
Whipped Cream Topping
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- Zest of 1 lemon, for garnish (optional)
- Zest of 1 lime, for garnish (optional)
Crust
To make the crust for the Atlantic Beach Pie, you will need graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted unsalted butter. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Mix well to ensure the sugar is evenly distributed. Pour in the melted butter and stir until all the crumbs are coated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Bake the crust for 10 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely before adding the filling.
Filling
The filling for Atlantic Beach Pie is a delightful blend of sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, lemon juice, lime juice, and the zest of a lemon and lime. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and egg yolks until well combined. Add the lemon juice, lime juice, and the zest of a lemon and lime. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Pour the filling into the cooled crust, making sure it is evenly spread. Place the pie in the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours or until set.
Whipped Cream Topping
To finish off the Atlantic Beach Pie, you will need heavy cream, granulated sugar, and the zest of a lemon and lime for garnish. In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream and sugar together until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip the cream. Spoon the whipped cream over the chilled pie, spreading it evenly with a spatula. For an extra touch of citrus flavor, sprinkle the zest of a lemon and lime on top. This step is optional but adds a refreshing aroma and taste to the pie. Serve the pie chilled and enjoy the tangy and sweet flavors of Atlantic Beach Pie.
Instructions
Preparing the Crust
To begin creating the delightful Atlantic Beach Pie, you will need to prepare the crust. Follow these simple steps to achieve a perfect base for your pie:
- Gather the ingredients for the crust - you will need 1 1/2 cups of graham cracker crumbs, 1/3 cup of granulated sugar, and 6 tablespoons of melted butter.
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Mix well until the sugar is evenly distributed.
- Slowly pour the melted butter into the bowl with the crumb mixture. Using a fork, stir until the ingredients are well combined and the crumbs are moistened.
- Transfer the crust mixture to a 9-inch pie plate. Press the mixture firmly onto the bottom and sides of the plate to create an even layer.
- Place the pie plate with the crust in the refrigerator and chill for at least 15 minutes.
Making the Filling
Once the crust is chilling, it's time to make the luscious filling for your Atlantic Beach Pie. Follow these steps to create a tangy and sweet filling that will leave you craving for more:
- In a large bowl, combine 4 egg yolks, 1 can (14 ounces) of sweetened condensed milk, and 1/2 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice. Whisk together until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Pour the filling mixture into the prepared crust. Use a spatula to spread the filling evenly, ensuring it reaches all edges of the crust.
- Place the pie plate in the oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until the filling is set. The center should be slightly jiggly, but not liquid.
- Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, or until thoroughly chilled.
Baking and Chilling
To achieve the perfect texture and taste for your Atlantic Beach Pie, proper baking and chilling are essential. Follow these steps to ensure a delightful dessert experience:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while preparing the crust and filling.
- Bake the pie crust for about 10 minutes, or until it turns a golden brown color. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely before adding the filling.
- After adding the filling, bake the pie for an additional 10 minutes, or until the filling is set. Remember to keep an eye on it to prevent over-baking.
- Once baked, allow the pie to cool to room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator to chill. This will ensure a firm and creamy texture.
Whipping the Cream
Whipping a luscious cream topping adds the perfect finishing touch to your Atlantic Beach Pie. Follow these steps to create a light and fluffy whipped cream topping:
- In a chilled mixing bowl, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Using an electric mixer, beat the cream on medium-high speed until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overbeat, as it can cause the cream to become grainy.
- Once the whipped cream reaches the desired consistency, gently spread it over the chilled pie filling using a spatula or piping bag.
- For an extra touch of elegance, garnish the pie with lemon zest or finely grated lemon peel.
Now that you have mastered the instructions for creating the delightful Atlantic Beach Pie, it's time to indulge in its tangy and sweet flavors. Serve chilled and enjoy this exquisite dessert with family and friends.
Serving and Variations
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving Atlantic Beach Pie, there are a few options that can enhance the overall experience. Here are some serving suggestions to consider:
1. Whipped Cream and Fresh Berries
To add a touch of elegance to your Atlantic Beach Pie, serve it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a handful of your favorite berries. The light and creamy texture of the pie pairs perfectly with the juicy sweetness of the berries, creating a delightful combination of flavors.
2. Graham Cracker Crust Garnish
For an extra crunch and visual appeal, sprinkle some crushed graham crackers on top of the pie before serving. Not only does it add a textural element, but it also complements the buttery crust of the pie, adding another layer of flavor.
3. Lemon Zest and Mint Leaves
To enhance the citrusy notes of the pie, grate some fresh lemon zest over the top just before serving. The zest adds a burst of fragrance and tanginess, adding depth to the overall taste. Additionally, garnish with a few mint leaves for a refreshing touch.
Variations to Try
While the classic Atlantic Beach Pie recipe is already a crowd-pleaser, you can also experiment with some variations to cater to different preferences. Here are a few ideas to inspire your culinary creativity:
1. Key Lime Twist
For a tropical twist, substitute the lemon juice with fresh key lime juice. The tangy and zesty flavors of the key lime add a refreshing and vibrant element to the pie. Top it with some whipped cream and lime zest for a picture-perfect dessert.
2. Chocolate Drizzle
If you're a chocolate lover, consider drizzling some melted chocolate over the pie before serving. The combination of the rich chocolate and the tangy filling creates a delightful contrast that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
3. Coconut Crust
For a taste of the tropics, replace the traditional graham cracker crust with a coconut crust. Simply mix shredded coconut with melted butter and press it into the pie dish before baking. The coconut adds a subtle sweetness and a hint of tropical flavor to the pie.
Remember, these variations are just a starting point. Feel free to get creative and experiment with different flavors and toppings to personalize your Atlantic Beach Pie and make it truly your own. Enjoy the process and savor every delicious bite!
