⏩ Origin:
Baked Alaska is a classic dessert that has been around since the late 1800s. It is said to have originated in the United States, but there is some debate over its true origins. Some believe that it was invented by French chef Charles Ranhofer, while others think that it was created by a chef at Delmonico's restaurant in New York City. Regardless of its origins, Baked Alaska has remained a popular dessert for over a century.
⏩ Required Time:
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes (includes freezing time)
⏩ Ingredients:
- 1 pint of ice cream (any flavor)
- 1 pound cake, cut into 1-inch thick slices
- 4 egg whites
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/2 cup sugar
⏩ Instructions:
- Line a small bowl with plastic wrap and fill it with softened ice cream. Smooth the top, cover with plastic wrap, and freeze for at least 2 hours.
- Preheat the oven to 450°F. Arrange the pound cake slices on a baking sheet and toast in the oven until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool.
- In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with cream of tartar until stiff peaks form. Gradually add the sugar, beating until the meringue is thick and glossy.
- Place the frozen ice cream on top of the toasted pound cake slices, then spread the meringue over the ice cream and cake, making sure to completely cover it.
- Use a kitchen torch to brown the meringue until golden brown.
- Serve immediately or return to the freezer until ready to serve.
⏩ Key Points:
- Be sure to freeze the ice cream before assembling the Baked Alaska to ensure it holds its shape.
- Use any flavor of ice cream and cake that you prefer to customize the dessert to your tastes.
- The meringue can also be flavored with extracts or liqueurs for added flavor.
⏩ Tips:
- Make sure the egg whites are at room temperature before beating them to ensure they whip up properly.
- Use a large, deep bowl when beating the egg whites to prevent splatters.
- If you don't have a kitchen torch, you can also broil the Baked Alaska in the oven until the meringue is golden brown.
- To make the dessert ahead of time, assemble the Baked Alaska and freeze until ready to serve, then brown the meringue just before serving.
Now that you have all the information and tips you need, it's time to impress your guests with this delicious and unique dessert. Give our Baked Alaska recipe a try and enjoy!