Blackberry Alaskas

Introduction

History

The concept of baked Alaska originates from the early 19th century, but the addition of blackberries is a more modern twist. Traditionally, baked Alaska is made with a sponge cake base, ice cream, and meringue. The introduction of blackberries adds a fresh and tangy flavor that cuts through the sweetness, making it a favorite among berry lovers.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure a perfect Blackberry Alaska, make sure your egg whites are at room temperature before whipping them into meringue. This will help achieve a stiffer peak. Also, be quick to serve after baking, as the contrast between the hot meringue and the cold ice cream is part of the allure of this dessert.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Blackberry Alaskas immediately after baking to enjoy the contrast of temperatures. They are perfect as a standalone dessert or can be paired with a light, sparkling wine to enhance the dining experience.

Cooking Techniques

Achieving stiff peaks in your meringue is crucial for this recipe. Ensure clean, grease-free utensils and a gradual addition of sugar to the egg whites for the best results.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a dairy-free version, use a dairy-free ice cream. A gluten-free patty shell can be used to make this dessert gluten-free.

Make Ahead Tips

While Blackberry Alaskas are best served fresh, you can prepare the meringue and the patty shells ahead of time. Assemble and bake just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish with fresh blackberries and mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness. A dusting of powdered sugar on the meringue can also add to the visual appeal.

Pairing Recommendations

A sweet Riesling or a sparkling Moscato pairs wonderfully with Blackberry Alaskas, complementing the dessert's sweetness and acidity.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

It's not recommended to store or reheat Blackberry Alaskas due to the nature of the dessert. It's best enjoyed immediately after preparation.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Blackberry Alaska contains approximately 300 calories. The majority of these calories come from the carbohydrates and the ice cream.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Blackberry Alaska contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbs come from the sugar used in the meringue and the natural sugars in the blackberries.

Fats

This dessert is relatively low in fats, with each serving containing about 7 grams, mostly from the ice cream. Choosing a low-fat ice cream can further reduce the fat content.

Proteins

Each serving of Blackberry Alaska provides about 4 grams of protein, primarily from the egg whites used in the meringue.

Vitamins and minerals

Blackberries are a rich source of Vitamin C and K, as well as fiber and manganese. These nutrients contribute to the overall nutritional value of the dessert, making it not just delicious but also beneficial.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include eggs and dairy. Those with allergies to these ingredients should exercise caution.

Summary

Overall, Blackberry Alaskas are a moderately indulgent dessert. They offer a good balance of flavors and textures, along with a decent nutritional profile, especially when considering the vitamins and minerals from the blackberries.

Summary

Blackberry Alaskas are a delightful twist on the classic baked Alaska, offering a perfect balance of tart, sweet, creamy, and airy textures and flavors. With a bit of preparation and attention to detail, this dessert can be a showstopper at any dinner party or special occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Blackberry Alaskas. It was many years ago, during a summer trip to visit my dear friend, Mrs. Jenkins. She was known far and wide for her delicious baked goods, and I had always admired her culinary skills.

One sunny afternoon, as we sat in her cozy kitchen sipping tea, Mrs. Jenkins suddenly got up and disappeared into her pantry. She emerged a few moments later, holding a basket of plump, juicy blackberries that she had picked earlier that morning.

"I have a special treat for you, my dear," she said with a twinkle in her eye. "I'm going to teach you how to make my famous Blackberry Alaskas."

I couldn't believe my luck! Mrs. Jenkins was going to share one of her most prized recipes with me. I watched in awe as she deftly mixed the blackberries with sugar and a touch of lemon juice, creating a sweet and tangy filling that smelled divine.

Next, she whipped up a light and fluffy meringue, using only the freshest eggs from her own hens. She spooned the blackberry filling into individual ramekins, topped them with the meringue, and popped them into the oven to bake.

As the Blackberry Alaskas baked, the kitchen filled with the mouthwatering aroma of sweet berries and toasty meringue. I couldn't wait to taste the finished dessert.

When Mrs. Jenkins finally pulled the Blackberry Alaskas out of the oven, they were golden brown and perfectly puffed. She placed a ramekin in front of me, along with a spoon and a napkin.

"Go ahead, my dear," she said with a smile. "Dig in and enjoy!"

I took my first bite of the warm, gooey dessert, and my taste buds exploded with flavor. The blackberries were sweet and juicy, the meringue was light and airy, and the combination of textures was simply heavenly. I savored every bite, feeling grateful for Mrs. Jenkins's generosity in sharing her recipe with me.

From that day on, Blackberry Alaskas became a favorite in my own kitchen. I made them for special occasions, family gatherings, and just because. Each time I whipped up a batch, I thought of Mrs. Jenkins and the wonderful day we spent baking together.

Over the years, I have tweaked the recipe here and there, adding my own personal touches and experimenting with different variations. Sometimes I use raspberries or blueberries instead of blackberries, depending on what's in season. Other times, I add a splash of bourbon or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra kick.

But no matter how I choose to customize the recipe, the memory of that summer day with Mrs. Jenkins always remains. She taught me not just how to make Blackberry Alaskas, but also the joy of sharing delicious food with loved ones and the satisfaction of creating something beautiful with my own two hands.

Now, as I pass the recipe down to my own grandchildren, I hope they too will feel that same sense of anticipation and wonder that I did when I first discovered the magic of Blackberry Alaskas. And maybe, just maybe, they'll think of me with fondness and gratitude, just as I think of Mrs. Jenkins every time I bake this special dessert.

Categories

| Berry Recipes | Blackberry Recipes | Canadian Desserts | Canadian Recipes |

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