Classic Baked Alaska: A Nostalgic Ice Cream Cake Dessert with Caramelized Meringue

Baked Alaska: A Showstopping Layered Dessert

Baked Alaska marries warm, golden meringue and a cold ice cream center for a nostalgic, showstopping baked alaska that wows every time.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Alaska

• Contrast of textures: Fluffy meringue, creamy ice cream, tender cake.
• Visual drama: Golden peaks perfect for entertaining.
• Customizable: Swap in your favorite ice cream or cake flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 quarts vanilla ice cream, softened
• 1 (8-inch) sponge cake layer or pound cake
• 6 large egg whites, room temperature
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the sponge cake layer in the center.
2. Scoop softened vanilla ice cream onto the cake, shaping it into a smooth dome using an offset spatula.
3. Freeze the assembled cake and ice cream for at least 8 hours, or overnight, until solid.
4. Preheat your oven to broil on high. Keep the rack about 6 inches from the heat source.
5. In a clean, chilled bowl, beat egg whites, cream of tartar, and salt on medium speed until frothy. Gradually add sugar, then vanilla, beating until stiff, glossy peaks form.
6. Remove the ice cream cake from the freezer and quickly spread meringue all over, sealing the base completely.
7. Broil for 2–3 minutes, watching closely, until the meringue is evenly golden brown.
8. Serve immediately, slicing through the crisp meringue, cool ice cream, and soft cake layers for dramatic contrasts.

Nutrition Information

Calories: 330 kcal | Carbs: 53 g | Protein: 6 g | Fat: 11 g | Sugar: 44 g | Sodium: 315 mg

Chef’s Tips & Variations

• Freeze thoroughly: A fully frozen interior prevents meltdown under the broiler.
• Flavor swaps: Try chocolate or strawberry ice cream, or lemon sponge for a citrus twist.
• Colorful peaks: Use a kitchen torch for pinpoint browning or add cocoa powder for marbled meringue.

Recipe adapted from Allrecipes.

Enjoy this showstopping baked alaska.