Baked Alaska Pie
A decadent baked Alaska pie featuring a coconut crust, ice cream filling, chocolate topping, and toasted meringue, perfect for special occasions or indulgent desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine coconut and butter.
- Press mixture into an 8 or 9-inch pan to form a crust.
- Bake at 300°F for 30 to 35 minutes or until brown.
- Melt marshmallows and chocolate in milk over hot water.
- Remove from heat and add vanilla.
- Allow to cool.
- Pack strawberry ice cream into the cooled crust.
- Cover with chocolate sauce and freeze until firm.
- Beat egg whites and salt until foamy.
- Gradually add sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
- Spread meringue over the ice cream filling, sealing to the crust.
- Sprinkle with additional coconut.
- Place the pie on a board and bake at 500°F for about 2 minutes or until the meringue is browned.
- Serve immediately or return to freezer until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using fresh strawberries or a strawberry puree instead of standard strawberry ice cream. If you're short on time, premade meringue can be a great substitute for homemade. Ensure your mixing bowl for the egg whites is free of any grease for the best volume. For a fun twist, try incorporating chocolate ice cream for a layered effect.
Serving Suggestions
Baked Alaska Pie is a showstopper for any occasion, especially when paired with fresh fruit or a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce. It complements well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside Poppy Seed Loaves during holiday gatherings. Garnish with toasted coconut for added texture and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in the freezer, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. If you need to reheat the meringue, place it briefly under a broiler, watching closely to avoid burning. Baked Alaska Pie is best enjoyed fresh, but can last up to a week in the freezer.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Alaska Pie contains roughly 22 calories, with 1g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different flavors of ice cream for this recipe?
Absolutely! While strawberry is traditional, you can use any flavor of ice cream that you prefer. Chocolate or vanilla would work beautifully, and mixing flavors can create an exciting dessert. Just make sure the ice cream is firm enough to hold its shape when packed into the crust.
What can I do if the meringue doesn't form stiff peaks?
If your meringue isn’t forming stiff peaks, ensure that the mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and dry, as any fat can prevent the egg whites from whipping properly. Additionally, make sure you’re using fresh eggs, and try adding a pinch of cream of tartar to help stabilize the meringue.
Is it possible to make Baked Alaska Pie in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the components in advance. Assemble the pie and freeze it before baking the meringue topping. Just be sure to add the meringue shortly before serving for the best texture and visual appeal. This makes it a convenient option for entertaining, allowing you to enjoy the party without last-minute preparations.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).