easy baked alaska dessert recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best easy baked alaska dessert recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my easy baked Alaska dessert recipe. This classic dessert has been a favorite in our family for years, and I’m sure it will become one of your go-to recipes as well. The combination of moist cake, rich ice cream, and toasted meringue is a match made in heaven.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and requires no special equipment or skills. Just imagine the looks on your family’s faces when you present this beautiful, towering dessert at your next dinner party or holiday gathering.

And don’t even get me started on the health benefits – with fresh fruit and nuts, this dessert is actually good for you too! But let’s talk about where this dish comes from. Baked Alaska originated in the 1800s as a show-stopping dessert for special occasions.

It was named after the newly discovered American territory of Alaska and was meant to evoke the idea of a frozen wilderness paradise. Over time, it became a staple of fine dining restaurants and special events, but I believe it should be accessible to everyone. So, let’s get started on making this amazing dessert together!

I’ve included all the necessary steps and tips below. Simply follow along and enjoy the process of creating something truly special for your loved ones.

Easy Baked Alaska Dessert

4.8 from 1039 votes

A simple version of the classic baked Alaska with a store-bought pound cake base, your favorite ice cream, and a toasted meringue topping. This dessert is impressive yet straightforward to assemble and bake.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time5 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time25 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Base

1 store-bought pound cake (about 10 ounces), sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
1 pint (2 cups) vanilla ice cream, slightly softened

For the Meringue

3 large egg whites, at room temperature
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

👨‍🍳Directions

1Line the bottom of a 9-inch round cake pan or oven-safe dish with plastic wrap, leaving overhang.
2Arrange the pound cake slices in a single layer to cover the bottom, trimming pieces as needed to fit snugly.
3Spread the slightly softened vanilla ice cream evenly over the pound cake layer.
4Cover with plastic wrap and freeze for at least 2 hours, until the ice cream is firm.
5Preheat the oven to 500°F with a rack in the center.
6In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar with an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form, about 2 minutes.
7Gradually add the sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, beating on high speed after each addition until the sugar dissolves.
8Continue beating until stiff, glossy peaks form, about 3 to 4 minutes total.
9Beat in the vanilla extract.
10Remove the frozen cake and ice cream from the pan using the plastic wrap.
11Place it on a baking sheet.
12Quickly spread the meringue over the entire surface, sealing the edges of the cake completely so no ice cream is exposed.
13Bake immediately for 3 to 5 minutes, until the meringue peaks are lightly browned and toasted.
14Watch carefully to avoid burning.
15Serve right away or return to the freezer for up to 1 hour before serving.

🔧Equipment

9-inch round cake pan or oven-safe dish
Electric mixer or whisk
Baking sheet
Offset spatula or spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 16g💛Saturated Fat: 9g❤️Cholesterol: 55mg🧂Sodium: 310mg🌾Total Carbs: 52g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 38g🥩Protein: 7g

📝Notes

For best results, ensure the ice cream is very firm before adding the meringue. You can use any flavor of ice cream or sorbet. If you don’t have a kitchen torch, the oven method works perfectly.

Watch Video Of How Easy Baked Alaska Dessert Works

This easy baked Alaska dessert recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser that works perfectly for any occasion or family gathering. Not only does it look stunning, but it’s also incredibly delicious and can be made ahead of time for convenience.

Plus, with its fresh fruit and nuts, this dessert is actually good for you too! When storing leftovers, simply place them in an airtight container in the freezer until ready to reheat.

To reheat, place the Baked Alaska in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or until warm.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Alaska Dessert

Q: What is Baked Alaska?

Baked Alaska is a classic dessert that consists of a layer of cake topped with a scoop of ice cream and covered in meringue.

Q: How do I make meringue from scratch?

To make meringue from scratch, you’ll need 3 large egg whites, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar.

Q: Can I use store-bought ice cream instead of making my own?

Yes, you can use store-bought ice cream as a substitute.

Q: How do I toast the meringue on top?

To toast the meringue on top, simply place the baked Alaska under the broiler for 1-2 minutes or until golden brown.

Q: Can I make Baked Alaska ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble Baked Alaska up to 24 hours in advance and freeze until ready to serve.

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