Holiday Fruit Alaska
A festive fruit dessert topped with fluffy meringue, combining fresh berries and bananas with a hint of cherry brandy, perfect for special occasions or holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 500°F (260°C).
- Mix the blueberries, strawberries, bananas, grapes, and cherry brandy together and chill.
- In a large bowl, beat egg whites until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add sugar, about 2 tablespoons at a time, and beat until stiff peaks form.
- Portion the fruit mixture into individual custard or ovenproof dishes.
- Top each dish with a generous dollop of meringue, sealing the fruit inside.
- Place the dishes on a cookie sheet and bake for 3 minutes until the meringue is golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best results, ensure your egg whites are at room temperature before beating; this helps achieve maximum volume. If you don't have Kirsch, a splash of vanilla extract or almond extract can work as a substitute, although it will change the flavor profile slightly. To add a delightful crunch, consider serving with a side of Streusel Crunch Topping.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Holiday Fruit Alaska immediately after baking for the best texture. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. This dish also complements a light, fruity dessert like So Good - So Easy Salad, making it an excellent choice for festive gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the individual servings under the broiler for a minute or two to revive the meringue's texture, but be careful not to overheat, as the fruit may become mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Holiday Fruit Alaska contains roughly 386 calories, with 15g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value) and protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 frozen fruit instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen fruit, but be sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before mixing it with the Kirsch. This will prevent the meringue from becoming soggy.
What type of dishes can I use for baking?
You can use individual ramekins, custard cups, or any ovenproof dish. Just make sure they are well greased to facilitate easy serving.
How do I know when the meringue is done?
The meringue is done when it appears golden on top and feels firm to the touch. Keep a close eye on it while baking, as it can quickly go from golden to burnt.
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).