Every year on February 1, we celebrate National Baked Alaska Day. This delectable dessert is crafted by layering slices of sponge cake, filling them with vanilla ice cream, and enveloping the creation entirely in whipped meringue. The entire assembly is then briefly baked in a hot oven to allow the meringue to set and achieve a delightful browned finish. Baked Alaska is also referred to as Omelette Norvegienne.

History and Significance: The origins of Baked Alaska date back to the 19th century, with multiple stories and claims regarding its invention. The most widely accepted account credits the creation of the dessert to the famous French chef Charles Ranhofer, who worked at Delmonico’s Restaurant in New York City. In 1867, Ranhofer is said to have created the dish to celebrate the purchase of Alaska by the United States from Russia, hence the name "Baked Alaska."

The dish quickly became popular due to its unique combination of flavors and textures, as well as the impressive technique involved in its preparation. The dessert features a layer of sponge cake, topped with a dome of ice cream, all of which is encased in a thick layer of meringue. The meringue is then briefly baked or flambéed, creating a crisp, golden exterior while keeping the ice cream inside cold and intact.

National Baked Alaska Day celebrates this iconic dessert and its place in American culinary history. It’s a day to appreciate the artistry and skill required to create Baked Alaska, as well as to enjoy the delicious results.

What is Baked Alaska? Baked Alaska is a dessert consisting of three main components:

• Cake Base: The base of the dessert is usually a thin layer of sponge cake or pound cake, which serves as a foundation for the ice cream.
• Ice Cream Dome: A generous layer of ice cream is placed on top of the cake, often molded into a dome shape. The ice cream can be any flavor, allowing for creativity and personalization.
• Meringue Coating: The entire dessert is covered in a thick layer of meringue, which acts as an insulating layer to protect the ice cream from melting when the dessert is baked or flambéed.

The magic of Baked Alaska lies in the contrast between the warm, crisp meringue exterior and the cold, creamy ice cream inside.

Ways to Celebrate National Baked Alaska Day:

• Make Your Own Baked Alaska: Celebrate by trying your hand at making Baked Alaska at home. While it may seem intimidating, the process is quite rewarding, and the results are sure to impress. Experiment with different cake bases and ice cream flavors to create a personalized version of the dessert.
• Visit a Restaurant: If you’re not up for making it yourself, visit a restaurant that serves Baked Alaska. Many fine dining establishments offer this dessert, and it’s often presented with a touch of theatrical flair.
• Learn the History: Take time to learn more about the history of Baked Alaska, including its origins, evolution, and cultural significance. Understanding the story behind the dessert can deepen your appreciation for it.
• Host a Baked Alaska Party: Invite friends or family over for a Baked Alaska-themed gathering. Serve different variations of the dessert, and perhaps even have a Baked Alaska competition where everyone can try their hand at making the dish.
• Experiment with Flavors: Get creative with the flavors of your Baked Alaska. Try using exotic ice cream flavors, adding fruit or chocolate layers, or incorporating liqueurs into the meringue for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
• Share on Social Media: Share your Baked Alaska creations and experiences on social media using hashtags like #NationalBakedAlaskaDay and #BakedAlaska. Connect with other dessert lovers and inspire others to try making the dish themselves.

Classic Baked Alaska Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 pint of ice cream (your choice of flavor)
• 1 sponge cake or pound cake (about 9 inches in diameter and 1 inch thick)
• 3 large egg whites
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ice Cream: Line a bowl with plastic wrap and pack the ice cream into the bowl, smoothing the top. Freeze until firm, about 2 hours or overnight.
2. Prepare the Cake Base: Cut the cake into a round that matches the diameter of the ice cream dome. Place the cake on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Place the Ice Cream on the Cake: Remove the ice cream from the bowl by lifting the plastic wrap. Place the ice cream dome on top of the cake layer and return it to the freezer while you prepare the meringue.
4. Make the Meringue: In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites with the cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating until stiff, glossy peaks form. Beat in the vanilla extract.
5. Cover the Ice Cream with Meringue: Remove the cake and ice cream from the freezer. Spread the meringue over the ice cream and cake, sealing the edges to the parchment paper to prevent the ice cream from leaking. Make sure the meringue is spread evenly and covers the entire dessert.
6. Bake or Flambé: Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C). Bake the Baked Alaska for 3-5 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown. Alternatively, you can use a kitchen torch to carefully brown the meringue. Serve immediately.

Interesting Facts About Baked Alaska:

• Other Names: Baked Alaska is known by different names in various countries. In France, it is sometimes referred to as "Omelette Norvégienne," and in Italy, it is known as "Montebianco."
• Scientific Cooking: The success of Baked Alaska relies on the insulating properties of the meringue, which prevents the ice cream from melting even when exposed to high heat.
• World’s Largest Baked Alaska: The largest Baked Alaska on record was made in 2010 by chefs in Hong Kong, measuring 4 feet in diameter and weighing over 1,000 pounds.

Conclusion: National Baked Alaska Day is a delicious celebration of a classic dessert that combines culinary artistry with a delightful contrast of textures and temperatures. Whether you enjoy making Baked Alaska at home, sampling it at a restaurant, or learning about its history, this day is all about appreciating the creativity and skill that goes into this iconic treat. On February 1st, take the time to indulge in a Baked Alaska, experiment with flavors, and share the joy of this unique dessert with others.