Baked Montana (An Easy Ice Cream Pie Delight)
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 2 minutes
Total Time: 7 minutes (plus freezing time)
Description: This delightful ice cream pie, affectionately known as Baked Montana, is a simplified twist on the classic Baked Alaska. Passed down from my mother, it won Best of Show at our county fair, earning accolades and a treasure trove of ribbons. With its creamy peppermint ice cream nestled in a crunchy crust and topped with golden-brown meringue and a drizzle of melted chocolate, it’s no wonder this pie has won over so many hearts and taste buds. It’s the perfect dessert to impress and indulge, ready in a flash, with just a bit of advance planning for freezing.
Category: Dessert
Keywords: < 15 Mins, Easy
Ingredients:
- 1 pint peppermint ice cream
- 3/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 4 large egg whites
Instructions:
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Prepare in Advance: Begin by baking the pie at least one day before serving. This advance preparation allows the ice cream and meringue to set perfectly.
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Assemble the Base: Gently pack the peppermint ice cream onto the crust. Be careful not to apply too much pressure to avoid cracking the crust. Once packed, place it in the freezer to harden.
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Make the Meringue: In a clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until they begin to froth. Gradually add the vanilla extract and confectioners’ sugar, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form. The meringue should be thick and glossy.
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Seal the Ice Cream: Spread the meringue over the ice cream, making sure to seal it completely to prevent any ice crystals from forming. Use a spatula to create decorative peaks and swirls on the meringue for an elegant finish.
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Broil the Meringue: Place the pie under the broiler, watching it closely to ensure it turns a light golden brown. This process should only take a few minutes, so keep a vigilant eye to avoid burning.
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Freeze Again: Once the meringue is perfectly browned, remove the pie from the oven and place it back in the freezer to firm up before serving.
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Add the Finishing Touches: Melt the chocolate chips with 1 to 2 teaspoons of water in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 20 seconds until smooth. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the top of the pie just before serving. For an extra touch of fun, top with maraschino cherries or colorful sprinkles.
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Serve and Enjoy: Slice into the pie and watch as the creamy ice cream and crisp meringue meet in a delightful burst of flavors. This pie is a showstopper at any gathering, providing a sweet and refreshing end to your meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 1450.9
- Fat: 59.2g
- Saturated Fat: 25.3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 749.1mg
- Carbohydrates: 227.7g
- Fiber: 8.2g
- Sugar: 189.5g
- Protein: 19.8g
This simple yet exquisite pie, with its blend of creamy peppermint ice cream, sweet meringue, and rich chocolate, will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on anyone who has the pleasure of tasting it. Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or just looking to indulge in a sweet treat, Baked Montana is a delightful choice that combines ease with elegance.
