This Orange Baked Alaska recipe combines the refreshing citrus flavor of oranges with the creamy goodness of ice cream, all topped with a fluffy meringue. It's a stunning dessert that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. The tangy orange flavor pairs perfectly with the smooth and cold ice cream, while the meringue adds a light and airy texture. It's a showstopper dessert that is surprisingly simple to make.
Ingredients
- 1 pint orange sorbet
- 1 pint vanilla ice cream
- 4 large egg whites
- 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Using a sharp knife, carve out a hollow center from a round orange approximately the size of a scoop of ice cream.
- Place the orange sorbet in the hollowed-out orange and smooth it out.
- Place the orange sorbet-filled orange in the freezer for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- In the meantime, remove the vanilla ice cream from the freezer and allow it to soften slightly.
- Once the orange sorbet is firm, remove it from the freezer and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
- Scoop the softened vanilla ice cream onto the orange sorbet, covering it completely.
- Return the baking sheet to the freezer and let the ice cream set for another 30 minutes.
- While the ice cream is setting, prepare the meringue by beating the egg whites and cream of tartar in a clean bowl until frothy.
- Gradually add in the sugar, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.
- Remove the baking sheet from the freezer and use a spoon to cover the ice cream and sorbet completely with the meringue.
- Make sure to create peaks and swirls for a visually appealing dessert.
- Bake the Baked Alaska in the preheated oven for 3-5 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and serve immediately to enjoy the contrasting textures of the warm meringue and the cold ice cream.
Interesting Facts
Baked Alaska is a classic dessert that originated in America in the late 19th century.
It gained popularity during the Prohibition era as a way to hide the flavor of alcohol.
The heat from the oven briefly browns the meringue while leaving the ice cream inside frozen.