You’ve stumbled upon a coastal culinary gem, Bill Smith’s Atlantic Beach Pie, which originated in the 1990s as a response to Key lime pie and has since become a staple in Atlantic Beach restaurants, showcasing a unique blend of Southern and coastal flavors. Want to know the secret to this sweet and tangy treat?

History

You’ve likely heard of Key lime pie, a tangy and sweet dessert that’s synonymous with Florida Keys cuisine. However, you might not know that Atlantic Beach Pie, created by Bill Smith, has its own origin story and cultural influence. Born in the 1990s, this pie emerged as a response to the traditional Key lime pie. Smith, a North Carolina chef, drew inspiration from the sweet and tangy flavors of the Atlantic Beach region. This pie’s cultural influence lies in its unique blend of Southern and coastal flavors, making it a staple in many Atlantic Beach restaurants. With its rich history and distinct flavor profile, Atlantic Beach Pie has earned its place in the world of desserts.

Recipe

Atlantic Beach Pie is a classic dessert that originated in the coastal towns of North Carolina. It’s a simple yet rich treat that combines the sweetness of sugar, the tartness of citrus, and the crunch of a graham cracker crust. This pie is a staple in many Atlantic Beach households, and its popularity has spread to other parts of the country.

The beauty of Atlantic Beach Pie lies in its simplicity. It doesn’t need any fancy toppings or intricate designs. The filling is made with just a few ingredients, and the crust is simply pressed into a pie dish. This simplicity makes it an ideal dessert for beginners or those short on time. Yet, the flavor and texture of this pie are anything but simple.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 large egg yolks
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Salt to taste

To make the crust, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until well combined. Press the mixture into a 9-inch pie dish, making sure to get it into the corners and up the sides of the dish. Let it cool completely before filling. To make the filling, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, lemon juice, and salt until well combined. Stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract until smooth.

Pour the filling into the cooled pie crust and smooth the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 325°F for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the filling is set. Let the pie cool to room temperature before serving.

When making this pie, be sure to not overmix the filling, as it can lead to a curdled texture. Also, make sure to let the pie cool completely before serving, as it will help the filling to set properly.

The Full Ingredient List

This list of ingredients is a staple in many Atlantic Beach Pie recipe books, and for good reason. You’ll find that these ingredients work harmoniously together to produce a sweet and tangy flavor profile.

Harmonious ingredients come together to produce a sweet and tangy flavor profile in the Atlantic Beach Pie.

• 1 1/2 cups of graham cracker crumbs (whole wheat alternatives available for added nutritional impacts)
• 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, softened (consider using coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative)
• 3 large egg yolks
• 1/2 cup of heavy cream (or a non-dairy milk alternative for a lighter option)

Cooking Steps

You’re ready to start assembling your Atlantic Beach Pie. First, preheat your oven to 350 degrees, then mix the crust ingredients together and press them into a pan. Next, fill the crust with sweetened condensed milk and top it with whipped cream.

Step 1. Preheat Oven to 350

Get your oven ready by preheating it to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, an essential step in preparing your Atlantic Beach Pie for baking. This temperature will help your crust cook evenly and give your pie a golden brown color. When preheating, keep in mind the energy impact it has on your electricity bill. Try to avoid preheating too far in advance to minimize energy waste. Additionally, remember to follow safety tips such as keeping a safe distance from the oven while it’s in use and ensuring children are not near the oven. With your oven preheated, you’re ready to move on to the next step in making your delicious Atlantic Beach Pie.

Mix Crust Ingredients Together

Combine 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter in a large bowl. Use your fingers or a pastry blender to work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. Be gentle, as over-mixing can lead to a tough crust. If you’re having trouble incorporating the butter, try refrigerating the mixture for 10 minutes to firm up the butter. This will make it easier to mix. Alternatively, use a food processor to pulse the mixture until it reaches the desired texture. Now you’re ready to move on to the next step in crafting your Atlantic Beach Pie crust.

Step 3. Press Crust Into Pan

Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan, making sure to evenly distribute the crust. Use your fingers or the back of a spoon to press the crust into place. This crust technique will help you achieve a smooth, even layer. If you don’t have a springform pan, you can use a pie dish or a tart pan with a removable bottom as alternatives. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly. Once the crust is in place, you’re ready to move on to the next step.

Step 4. Fill With Sweetened Condensed Milk

Pour sweetened condensed milk into the prepared crust, making sure to spread it out to the edges. You’ll be using a significant amount, but it’s essential for the creamy filling. Sweetened condensed milk has global uses, from desserts to coffee, and is a staple in many cuisines. It’s also a good source of calcium, protein, and carbohydrates, adding to the nutritional value of your Atlantic Beach Pie. As you fill the crust, make sure to get it into all the corners and smooth out the top. This will guarantee that your filling is evenly distributed and your pie looks appealing.

Step 5. Add Whipped Cream Topping

Now that your sweetened condensed milk filling is evenly distributed, whip heavy cream into stiff peaks to create a light and airy topping for your Atlantic Beach Pie. You can adjust the sweetness by adding a tablespoon or two of sugar to the whipped cream. When it comes to topping styles, you can choose to create a decorative peak or a smooth, even layer. If you’re looking for whipped alternatives, consider using coconut cream or half-and-half for a richer flavor. Whatever your preference, this topping will add a delightful contrast to the sweet and salty crust.

Final Thoughts

As you sit back and savor the last crumb of your Atlantic Beach Pie, you’ll likely find yourself reflecting on the experience. The verdict summary is clear: this pie is a winner. The combination of sweet and salty flavors, the creamy whipped cream, and the crunchy crust all come together to create an unforgettable impression wrap up. You might find yourself wondering how something so simple can be so incredibly delicious. The answer lies in the quality of the ingredients and the care with which they’re combined. As you finish your pie, you’ll be left with a lasting impression and a craving for another slice.