Best Baked Alaska: A Show-Stopping Ice Cream Delight

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Aniela Recipes Team

There s nothing quite like the feeling of delight as you slice into a Meringue Topped Ice Cream Cake, a dessert that dazzles both the eyes and the taste buds. I found myself craving something special after a weekend gathering that needed a show-stopping finale, and this recipe for the Best Baked Alaska fit the bill perfectly. With its layers of fluffy meringue enveloping creamy vanilla ice cream atop a soft pound cake, it s a whimsical treat that takes me straight back to my childhood.

Imagine the contrast of textures right from the first bite the crisp, golden meringue meets the cool, smooth ice cream, all resting on a buttery base. This cake is not just a feast for the senses; it s surprisingly easy to whip up! Whether you re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or simply want to indulge in a well-deserved dessert, this meringue-topped creation will surely satisfy any sweet tooth. So let s dive right into this delightful recipe that marries elegance with comfort, and make dessert the highlight of your day!

Why is Best Baked Alaska a Must-Try?

Irresistible layers: This dessert features soft pound cake, creamy vanilla ice cream, and a cloud of fluffy meringue, creating an unforgettable flavor experience.
Quick & simple: With just a few easy steps, you can create a stunning treat without spending hours in the kitchen.
Show-stopper appeal: Impress family and friends with your baking skills this cake is as beautiful as it is delicious!
Versatility galore: Feel free to switch up the ice cream flavors to suit your mood or party theme.
Perfect for celebrations: Make every occasion memorable with this delightful dessert that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
For tips on enhancing your dessert repertoire, don t miss my post on creative cake variations!

Best Baked Alaska Ingredients

For the Cake
Pound cake rounds Use 6 3-inch rounds for a perfect base that holds up against the meringue.

For the Ice Cream
Vanilla ice cream 3 cups of this creamy delight add a rich, smooth layer to your cake.

For the Meringue
Egg whites 6 at room temperature help achieve a fluffy texture that s light and airy.
Sugar 6 tablespoons sweeten the meringue and aid in achieving that beautiful golden color when baked.

This Best Baked Alaska is sure to become a loved dessert at any gathering!

How to Make Best Baked Alaska

1. Preheat the oven to 425 °F. This prepares your kitchen for that delicious golden meringue you ll soon create!

2. Arrange the pound cake rounds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This step ensures easy removal later and gives a clean finish to your dessert.

3. Scoop generous portions of vanilla ice cream on top of each cake round. Afterward, place them in the freezer to firm up while the meringue is prepared.

4. Beat the room temperature egg whites using an electric mixer on high speed. Continue until they form a stiff meringue, then gradually mix in the sugar until blended. You ll want it fluffy and shiny!

5. Cover each frozen cake and ice cream layer with the prepared meringue, ensuring it seals right down to the parchment paper. This helps to create that perfect meringue crust.

6. Bake in your preheated oven for 6-8 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the meringue turns beautifully golden brown this is the magic moment!

7. Serve immediately after carefully removing with a spatula. The contrast of textures will make everyone s taste buds dance!

Optional: Garnish with a drizzle of chocolate or raspberry sauce for an extra touch of decadence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing the Best Baked Alaska ahead of time can truly save you on busy weeknights! You can assemble the pound cake rounds with ice cream and freeze them up to 24 hours in advance. Ensure they are well-covered with plastic wrap to maintain their texture. The meringue should be whipped fresh, ideally on the day you plan to serve it, but if necessary, it can be made a few hours ahead; just store it in an airtight container. When you re ready to impress your family or guests, top your frozen cake with the meringue and bake for 6-8 minutes until golden brown. With this prep, you ll have a stunning dessert ready with minimal last-minute effort!

Expert Tips for Best Baked Alaska

• Use Room Temperature Egg Whites: Be sure your egg whites are at room temperature for better volume when beating. Cold egg whites won t achieve the desired fluffiness in your meringue.

• Seal the Meringue Well: Ensure the meringue completely covers the ice cream and cake without gaps. This prevents the ice cream from melting while baking, preserving that delightful texture in the Best Baked Alaska.

• Watch the Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your meringue while it bakes. Aim for a golden brown color; too long can lead to a burnt exterior.

• Experiment with Flavors: Don t hesitate to mix and match ice cream flavors. A fruity sorbet or a rich chocolate can give your Best Baked Alaska a unique twist!

• Serve Immediately: This dessert is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. The contrast of the warm meringue and cold ice cream is a must-experience sensation!

Best Baked Alaska Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this delightful dessert to suit your taste!

• Gluten-Free: Swap traditional pound cake with a gluten-free version to accommodate dietary restrictions without losing flavor.

• Dairy-Free: Use coconut or almond milk-based ice cream to create a creamy base that everyone can enjoy. This adds a hint of tropical flavor!

• Flavor Infusions: Try different ice cream flavors like coffee, mint, or raspberry for a twist that excites the palate. Each choice brings its own unique vibe!

• Chocolate Lovers: Substitute vanilla ice cream with chocolate ice cream for an indulgent chocolate version. Top with chocolate shavings for added texture!

• Fruit Delight: Layer in fresh fruits like berries between the ice cream and meringue for a pop of color and flavor. This creates a refreshing contrast to the creamy layers.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper to the meringue for a surprisingly delightful heat that will awaken your senses.

• Nutty Crunch: Fold in finely chopped nuts like almonds or hazelnuts into the meringue for added texture and a subtly rich flavor. It gives a satisfying crunch in every bite!

• Layered Treat: Stack additional layers of sponge cake and various ice cream flavors for a more extravagant showstopper. This will enhance the visual appeal and make every slice unique!

What to Serve with Best Baked Alaska?

Looking to create a delightful dessert experience that complements your show-stopping ice cream cake?

• Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries brings a pop of color and tartness that balances the sweetness of the cake.
• Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over each slice adds a rich, decadent element that makes every bite even more indulgent.
• Mint Leaves: Bright, fragrant mint not only enhances the visual appeal, but its refreshing flavor completes the dessert with a refreshing finish.
• Coconut Macaroons: These chewy, sweet treats provide an additional layer of flavor and texture, creating a tropical vibe that pairs beautifully with the meringue.

For a cozy evening, consider serving:

• Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavors of coffee contrast wonderfully with the sugary meringue and rich ice cream. They make for a comforting end to a meal.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop of plain vanilla alongside the cake to amplify the delightful ice cream experience in each bite.

With these delightful pairings, your Best Baked Alaska will shine even brighter on any dessert table!

How to Store and Freeze Best Baked Alaska

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover the meringue well to prevent it from becoming soggy.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the whole Best Baked Alaska (unbaked) by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap. It can last up to 2 months without losing quality.

Reheating: When ready to bake from frozen, preheat your oven and bake straight from the freezer. Don t forget to watch for that golden meringue!

Serving Fresh: While the Best Baked Alaska is delightful fresh out of the oven, if refrigerated, allow it to come to room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving for the best texture.

Best Baked Alaska Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right pound cake for Best Baked Alaska?
Absolutely! When selecting your pound cake, aim for one that s moist yet sturdy enough to hold up against both the ice cream and the meringue. Look for cakes free of dark spots or signs of aging; freshness is key. You can also opt for homemade if you have a favorite recipe, or buy a high-quality store brand for convenience!

How should I store leftover Best Baked Alaska?
For leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover the meringue well with plastic wrap to maintain its texture and prevent it from becoming soggy. If you notice any moisture buildup, dab it lightly with a paper towel before sealing it.

Can I freeze Best Baked Alaska?
Yes! To freeze your Best Baked Alaska, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This method helps prevent freezer burn and keeps it fresh for up to 2 months. When you re ready to bake it, preheat your oven and place it directly from the freezer into the oven. Remember to keep a close eye on the meringue as it cooks for that perfect golden crust!

What can I do if my meringue isn t stiff enough?
If your meringue is not forming peaks or holding its shape, it could be due to the egg whites not being whipped long enough or the bowl having traces of grease. Ensure your mixing bowl is clean and dry, then try beating the egg whites longer, perhaps 2-3 more minutes, until stiff peaks form. For extra stability, you can add a pinch of cream of tartar during whipping.

Are there any allergies I should consider when making Best Baked Alaska?
Very! This recipe contains egg whites, dairy, and gluten from the pound cake, so be cautious if your guests have allergies. If you re cooking for someone with these sensitivities, consider using gluten-free cake alternatives, dairy-free ice cream, and egg substitutes like aquafaba (chickpea brine) that can create a similar meringue texture. Always double-check food labels to ensure all ingredients meet your dietary needs.

Can I enhance the flavor of my ice cream for Best Baked Alaska?
Definitely! While vanilla ice cream is classic, feel free to experiment with flavors! Think about using chocolate, coffee, or fruity choices like strawberry or mango. You can even mix-ins like crushed cookies or fruits to create unique flavor combinations that will make your Best Baked Alaska a hit!