Ingredients:
- 1.5 sleeves (approx. 6 oz / 170g) saltine crackers
- 0.5 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 can (14 oz / 396g) sweetened condensed milk
- 4 large egg yolks
- 0.5 cup (120ml) fresh citrus juice (lemon and lime mix)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tsp flaky sea salt
- 1 tsp fresh citrus zest
Instructions:
- Crush 1.5 sleeves of saltines by hand or in a processor until they are coarse crumbs. Note: Don't turn them into dust; we want texture.
- Combine crumbs with 3 tbsp sugar and 0.5 cup softened butter using your hands or a fork. Mix until the dough holds together like wet sand.
- Press the mixture into a 9 inch pie pan, pushing it firmly up the sides. Note: Use the bottom of a flat glass to get an even thickness.
- Place the crust in a 350°F (180°C) oven for 18 minutes. Bake until the edges are deep golden and smell like toasted crackers.
- While the crust cools slightly, beat 4 egg yolks into 14 oz sweetened condensed milk. Whisk until the mixture is thick and pale yellow.
- Slowly pour in 0.5 cup citrus juice while continuing to whisk. Note: The mixture will thicken almost instantly as the acid reacts with the milk.
- Pour the filling into the warm crust and bake for 16 minutes. Cook until the center has a slight jiggle but is mostly set.
- Allow the pie to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours. Note: This is crucial for the custard to reach its final density.
- Beat 1 cup heavy cream with 2 tbsp powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Whip until the cream is voluminous and holds its shape.
- Spread the cream over the chilled pie, then sprinkle with 1 tsp flaky sea salt and 1 tsp citrus zest. Top just before serving for the best texture.