Instructions
1. Make the Crust
Preheat oven to 175°C / 350°F.
Crush the saltine crackers finely using a food processor or rolling pin. Mix with melted butter and sugar until evenly combined. Press firmly into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Bake for 15 minutes, then let cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Filling
In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks until thick and pale. Add sweetened condensed milk and whisk until smooth. Stir in lemon juice and zest. The mixture will thicken naturally.
3. Bake the Pie
Pour the filling into the warm crust. Bake for 18–20 minutes, just until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Do not overbake. Cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
4. Whip the Cream
Beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and salt until soft peaks form. Spread generously over the chilled pie.