Baked Alaska

Baked Alaska is a classic and impressive dessert that combines cold ice cream with a layer of sponge cake, all encased in a fluffy meringue. This recipe provides a step-by-step guide on how to create a delectable Baked Alaska that will serve 6 people. The process begins by freezing the ice cream and sponge cake overnight. The next day, a meringue is prepared by whisking egg whites and sugar until they form soft peaks. The sponge cake is then spread with raspberry jam, and the frozen ice cream is placed on top. The meringue is carefully spread all over the ice cream, ensuring it seals in the ice cream completely. The Baked Alaska is then baked briefly in a hot oven until the meringue turns golden. The result is a stunning dessert with contrasting textures of cold ice cream, soft cake, and fluffy meringue.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1.2 litres/2pt round tub of good-quality vanilla ice cream
• 1 Victoria sponge or other plain butter sponge cake
• 4 egg whites
• 75g/3oz caster sugar
• 1 tablespoon raspberry jam

PREPARATION:

1. Place the tub of vanilla ice cream in the coldest section of the freezer and freeze until solid.
2. Cut the sponge cake to match the top of the ice cream tub. Place the sponge cake on a baking sheet and freeze it overnight.
3. Preheat the oven to 230°C/450°F/Gas mark 8.
4. In a clean and dry mixing bowl, whisk the egg whites using an electric mixer until they form soft peaks.
5. Gradually add the caster sugar while continuing to whisk the egg whites. Whisk until the peaks become firm, being careful not to overmix.
6. Spread the raspberry jam evenly over the frozen sponge cake.
7. Remove the ice cream from the tub and place it on top of the jam-covered sponge cake.
8. Using a palette knife, spread the meringue mixture over the ice cream, ensuring it completely covers the ice cream and seals the cake.
9. Bake the Baked Alaska in the preheated oven for 4-5 minutes, or until the meringue is just beginning to color.
10. Remove from the oven and serve immediately.

YIELD: Serves 6

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• The Baked Alaska should be served immediately after baking to maintain the contrast between the cold ice cream and the warm meringue.
• For a more dramatic presentation, the meringue can be lightly browned using a blowtorch before serving.
• Experiment with different flavors of ice cream and jam to create unique variations of Baked Alaska.

Baked Alaska is a showstopping dessert that never fails to impress. The combination of cold ice cream, moist sponge cake, and fluffy meringue creates a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. This recipe provides a straightforward and reliable method for making Baked Alaska at home.

By freezing the ice cream and sponge cake overnight, you ensure that the ice cream stays firm and the cake retains its shape during the baking process. The meringue is prepared by whisking egg whites and sugar to create a light and airy topping that envelops the entire dessert.

The raspberry jam adds a sweet and tangy layer between the sponge cake and ice cream, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the Baked Alaska.

When served, the meringue becomes delicately golden, adding a beautiful visual appeal to the dessert. The warm meringue complements the cold ice cream, creating a delightful contrast that is sure to impress your guests.

Whether it’s a special occasion or a casual gathering, Baked Alaska is sure to be a showstopper. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps of this recipe, and enjoy the delightful combination of textures and flavors in this classic dessert.