February 1st, 2026

National Baked Alaska Day

Get ready to celebrate the most flamboyant dessert around! National Baked Alaska Day is a sweet ode to the magnificent creation of ice cream cake covered in a layer of meringue, baked to perfection! It's a magical combination of hot and cold that defies logic and delights taste buds. Legend has it this dessert was born in the 19th century to commemorate Alaska's entry into the Union. So grab a fork, and dig into this fiery, frosty treat that’s sure to impress even the toughest food critics. Don’t forget the dramatic flambé for extra flair!

Written by: Fatima Ahmed Fatima Ahmed - (updated: January 31st, 2025 at 9:45AM)

National Baked Alaska Day offers a delightful opportunity to indulge in a dessert that is both a visual and gustatory masterpiece. This sumptuous creation features a generous scoop of ice cream perched atop a moist cake base—often a luscious pound cake or a delicate sponge cake—and enveloped in a velvety coat of meringue. The pièce de résistance occurs when the meringue is toasted to golden perfection, resulting in a crisp exterior that reveals the cold, creamy heart beneath.NationalBakedAlaskaDay

Origins of a Decadent Delight

The story of Baked Alaska is steeped in culinary legend and intrigue. While many credit French chef Charles Ranhofer with its invention in the late 19th century, its rise to fame truly took flight in the early 20th century. During this period, Baked Alaska became a hallmark of opulence, gracing the menus of elite restaurants and grand banquets with its undeniable allure.

A Celebration of Creativity and Indulgence

National Baked Alaska Day is a time for both professional and amateur bakers to unite in their love for this extravagant dessert. It's a day to unleash your culinary creativity and savor the rich, creamy delight that defines Baked Alaska. Whether you're crafting a classic version or experimenting with new flavors, this celebration invites you to explore the art of dessert-making in all its glory.

What sets Baked Alaska apart is its tantalizing dance of hot and cold sensations. The meringue's satisfying crunch contrasts with the ice cream's refreshing coolness, creating a symphony of textures and flavors that captivates the senses.

Fun Facts and Variations

Did you know that Baked Alaska was originally christened "Omelette Norvégienne" in France? The nod to Norway is thought to reflect the country's esteemed ice cream craftsmanship, adding an intriguing twist to its history.

Celebrating National Baked Alaska Day

How might you immerse yourself in the festivities of this sweet holiday? Consider these delightful ideas:

In conclusion, National Baked Alaska Day is an ode to a dessert that embodies both creativity and decadence. Whether you're a seasoned pastry chef or simply a lover of all things sweet, this day offers the perfect occasion to indulge in a culinary masterpiece and celebrate the spirit of innovation that continues to inspire dessert enthusiasts around the world.

Recipe for National Baked Alaska Day

Today, we're celebrating National Baked Alaska Day with a show-stopping dessert that's sure to impress! This indulgent treat consists of a moist pound cake, a scoop of creamy ice cream, and a golden-brown meringue topping. It's a dessert like no other, and we can't wait to share it with you.



Nutrition Facts
Calories350 calories
Total Fat20g
Total Carbohydrate40g
Protein10g

Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Cooking Method: Baking

Category: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Yield: 6-8 servings

Suitable For Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

BreadPuddingRecipeExchangeDay recipe

Materials

Steps

  1. Preheat the oven to 500°F (260°C).
  2. Place the pound cake on a 9x5-inch baking dish and top with a scoop of ice cream.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg whites and salt until frothy.
  4. Gradually add the granulated sugar to the egg whites and whisk until stiff peaks form.
  5. Spread the meringue mixture over the ice cream and cake, making sure to seal the edges.
  6. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown.
  7. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes. If desired, use a torch to toast the meringue to a golden brown perfection.
  8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Timeline
1876
Baked Alaskas Birth
A French chef, Charles Ranhofer, created the Baked Alaska dessert at Delmonicos Restaurant in New York City.
1894
Delmonicos Menu Feature
Baked Alaska became a permanent feature on the menu at Delmonicos Restaurant, solidifying its place in American dessert culture.
1920
Prohibition-Era Popularity
During the Prohibition era, Baked Alaska became a popular dessert in speakeasies, due to its luxurious and decadent nature.
1950
Post-War Revival
Following World War II, Baked Alaska experienced a resurgence in popularity, as American cuisine began to focus on rich and indulgent desserts.
2005
National Recognition
National Baked Alaska Day was officially recognized, solidifying the desserts place in American culinary culture.
National Baked Alaska Day

National Baked Alaska Day Quiz

What is Baked Alaska typically made of?

Score: 0/5
FAQ
What is Baked Alaska?
Baked Alaska is a dessert made from layers of cake, ice cream, and meringue, then baked in a hot oven to create a crispy, golden-brown exterior.
How is Baked Alaska typically served?
Baked Alaska is typically served as a show-stopping dessert, often at special occasions like weddings and banquets, and is usually accompanied by fresh fruit or whipped cream.
What is the history of Baked Alaska?
Baked Alaska originated in the mid-19th century in the United States, where it was popularized by French chefs working in American restaurants.
What are some variations of Baked Alaska?
Some popular variations of Baked Alaska include adding different flavors of ice cream or using different types of cake, such as chocolate or pound cake.
Is Baked Alaska difficult to make?
Baked Alaska can be a challenging dessert to make, as it requires precise temperature control and quick assembly to prevent the ice cream from melting.
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