1-First Step: Prepare the Ice Cream Layer Slightly soften the ice cream by letting two 1.5-quart containers sit out for a few minutes, then beat it until creamy. Spread it into a 9-inch bowl lined with plastic wrap and freeze for at least 8 hours to form a firm dome shape, which will be the cool center of your baked alaska.

2-Second Step: Bake the Brownie Base Prepare the brownie batter for a 9-inch round pan using your favorite homemade fudgy recipe without frosting, then grease and line the pan with parchment. Bake at 350°F for 32-38 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out mostly clean, and let it cool completely before removing from the pan this creates a solid base that’s full of flavor.

3-Third Step: Assemble the Layers Once the ice cream is fully frozen, remove it from the bowl and plastic wrap, then place the cooled brownie layer on top as the base. Freeze the assembled layers together for 30 minutes to help them set, ensuring the dessert holds its shape when you add the meringue.

4-Fourth Step: Make the Meringue For the meringue, whisk 4 large egg whites, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar over simmering water for about 4 minutes until the sugar dissolves. Transfer to a mixer, add 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract, and whisk for 5-6 minutes until stiff, glossy peaks form this step makes the meringue safe and easy to spread.

5-Fifth Step: Add and Toast the Meringue Spread the meringue thickly over the ice cream and brownie assembly, making sure to create peaks and swirls that fully cover everything to insulate the ice cream. Use a kitchen torch to brown the meringue evenly, or bake in a preheated 450°F oven for 4-5 minutes for that perfect toasted look.

6-Final Step: Serve and Enjoy Slice the baked alaska with a serrated knife and serve it immediately to keep the ice cream from melting, capturing that ideal mix of textures. For a fun variation, consider adapting this for dietary needs, like using vegan substitutes, and remember the total preparation time is about 9 hours and 40 minutes, mostly hands-off freezing time.