Baked Alaska Recipe: How to Make This Classic Dessert at Home
Looking to impress your guests with a show-stopping dessert? The Baked Alaska is a timeless classic that never fails to wow. With its layers of cake, ice cream, and perfectly torched meringue, this dessert is a blend of textures, flavors, and drama. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to try something new, this Baked Alaska recipe is your ultimate guide.
What Is Baked Alaska?
Baked Alaska is a retro dessert that combines sponge cake, ice cream, and meringue. What makes it fascinating is how it’s baked just long enough to toast the meringue while keeping the ice cream inside frozen. The result? A delicious hot-and-cold experience that’s both fun to make and unforgettable to eat.
Ingredients for Baked Alaska
Here’s what you’ll need to make a classic Baked Alaska:
For the base:
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1 layer of pound cake or sponge cake (store-bought or homemade)
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Ice cream (any flavor, but vanilla, chocolate, or strawberry work best)
For the meringue:
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4 large egg whites
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1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
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1/2 cup granulated sugar
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1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Ice Cream Dome
Line a bowl with plastic wrap and press softened ice cream into it. Smooth out the top and freeze for several hours until solid.
2. Cut the Cake Base
Cut your cake to match the size of the ice cream dome. Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Assemble the Layers
Once the ice cream is frozen solid, remove it from the bowl and place it on top of the cake base.
4. Make the Meringue
Beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until stiff, glossy peaks form.
5. Cover the Ice Cream
Spread the meringue over the entire surface of the ice cream and cake, sealing every edge to prevent melting.
6. Bake or Torch
Quickly bake in a preheated oven at 500°F (260°C) for 2-3 minutes until the meringue is golden brown, or use a kitchen torch for even more control.
7. Serve Immediately
Slice and serve right away for the best texture and temperature contrast.
Tips for the Perfect Baked Alaska
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Use very cold ice cream to prevent melting during the baking process.
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Seal all gaps in the meringue to insulate the ice cream properly.
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Experiment with flavors—try chocolate cake with coffee ice cream, or lemon cake with raspberry sorbet.
Why You Should Try Baked Alaska
The Baked Alaska recipe is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience. It’s dramatic, fun, and gives you the chance to show off your baking skills. Plus, it can be made ahead of time and stored in the freezer until it’s time to torch and serve.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, this recipe is approachable, flexible, and guaranteed to delight.
Ready to take your dessert game to the next level? Try this Baked Alaska recipe today and create a memorable finale to any meal!