A true gem of Southern coastal baking, Atlantic Beach Pie brings together sweet, salty, and nutty flavors in a comforting, creamy dessert. With its luscious filling packed with flaked coconut and crunchy pecans, all nestled in a flaky crust, this pie captures the charm of seaside gatherings and family dinners.
If you love desserts that balance rich sweetness with a hint of savory depth, this classic is sure to win your heart.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
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1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade shortcrust pastry)
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¼ cup finely chopped pecans (optional, for extra crunch)
For the Filling:
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1 cup granulated sugar
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½ cup all-purpose flour
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½ teaspoon salt
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3 large eggs
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1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
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1 cup flaked coconut (sweetened or unsweetened, as preferred)
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1 cup chopped pecans
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1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
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Pinch of sea salt
For Topping (Optional):
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Whipped cream
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Toasted coconut or additional pecans for garnish
Instructions
Step 1 — Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If using a pre-made crust, lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish and fit the crust into it. For extra crunch, sprinkle ¼ cup finely chopped pecans on the bottom of the crust before adding the filling.
Step 2 — Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, flour, and salt.
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Stir in the sweetened condensed milk until fully combined.
Fold in the flaked coconut, chopped pecans, and vanilla extract.
Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt into the mixture for an added depth of flavor.
Step 3 — Assemble the Pie
Pour the filling into the prepared crust, smoothing the top with a spatula if needed.
Step 4 — Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, or until the center is set (a slight jiggle is fine) and the top is golden brown. If the crust edges start to darken too quickly, loosely cover them with foil halfway through baking.
Step 5 — Cool and Chill
Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack. Once cool, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set fully.
Step 6 — Serve
Slice into wedges and serve chilled. Top with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of toasted coconut or chopped pecans for a perfect finishing touch.
Final Thoughts
This Atlantic Beach Pie brings a delightful twist to traditional Southern desserts — creamy, nutty, sweet, and just a little bit salty. Whether you serve it at a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or a casual potluck, it’s sure to become a new favorite.