Prepare the Cake Base

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake the Cake: If you’re baking your cake, prepare your favorite recipe and bake it in an 8-9 inch round cake pan. Allow it to cool completely.
3. Slice the Cake: Once cooled, slice the cake into a flat, even layer that will fit the base of your bowl or plate. If using store-bought cake, simply slice it to the desired thickness.

Prepare the Ice Cream Layer

1. Soften the Ice Cream: Take the ice cream out of the freezer and let it soften for about 10 minutes. This will make it easier to work with.
2. Form the Ice Cream Dome: Scoop the softened ice cream into a bowl that is slightly larger than your cake. Use the back of a spoon to smooth it into a dome shape. Place the bowl in the freezer for about 30 minutes to firm up.

Prepare the Meringue

1. Whisk the Egg Whites: In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
2. Add Sugar: Gradually add the granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, and continue to beat until stiff peaks form.
3. Flavor the Meringue: Add the vanilla extract and cream of tartar to stabilize the meringue and give it a subtle flavor.

Assemble the Baked Alaska

1. Layer the Cake: Place the sliced cake onto a heatproof serving plate or baking dish. Make sure the cake fits the base of your ice cream dome.
2. Add the Ice Cream: Gently invert the ice cream dome onto the cake. Press it down lightly to ensure a good seal.
3. Top with Meringue: Spread the meringue over the ice cream and cake, covering it completely. Be sure to spread the meringue all the way to the edges to seal in the ice cream.
4. Create Peaks: Use the back of a spoon to create peaks and swirls in the meringue, which will help it brown beautifully in the oven.

Bake the Alaska

1. Preheat Broiler: Preheat your oven’s broiler to high.
2. Bake: Place the assembled Baked Alaska in the oven under the broiler for 5-7 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
3. Serve Immediately: Once the meringue is perfectly golden, remove the Baked Alaska from the oven and serve right away.