Easy Gluten-Free Dessert: Swiss Meringue Birthday Cake
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Imagine a dessert that’s both crispy and creamy, light yet indulgent—a masterpiece of textures and flavors. A delicate meringue base topped with velvety whipped cream, smooth vanilla ice cream, and fresh, juicy berries, all drizzled with rich caramel and chocolate sauces. This is the ultimate gluten-free dessert: Meringue Bliss Cake!
Perfect for special occasions or as a delightful treat for yourself, this dessert is not only delicious but also naturally gluten-free, making it a fantastic choice for anyone avoiding gluten.
What You Need
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- Meringue base: large pre-made gluten-free meringue layer or homemade (recipe below)
- Heavy cream: 3/4 cup, whipped
- Vanilla ice cream: 2 cups (ensure it’s gluten-free)
- Mini meringues: About 30 pieces
- Bananas: 2, sliced
- Fresh mixed berries: 3.5 oz (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Caramel sauce: 3 tbsp (check for gluten-free labeling)
Chocolate Sauce:
- Dark chocolate: 3.5 oz
- Heavy cream: 1/3 cup
Homemade Meringue Layer:
- Egg whites: 4 large, room temperature
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- White vinegar: 1 tsp
- Cornstarch: 1 tbsp
How to Make the Meringue Layer:
- Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and draw an 8-inch circle as a guide.
- In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat egg whites on medium speed until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat until stiff, glossy peaks form.
- Gently fold in vanilla extract, white vinegar, and cornstarch.
- Spoon the meringue onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it evenly within the circle.
- Bake for 1 hour, then turn off the oven and leave the meringue inside to cool completely with the door slightly open.
How to Make It
- Prepare the chocolate sauce: Finely chop the chocolate. Heat the cream until it begins to simmer, then whisk in the chocolate until smooth. Keep warm.
- Assemble the cake: Place the meringue base on a serving platter. Layer with scoops of vanilla ice cream.
- Add toppings: Sprinkle mini meringues over the ice cream. Arrange banana slices and fresh berries on top.
- Drizzle with sauces: Pour over the warm chocolate sauce followed by the caramel sauce.
- Serve immediately and enjoy this delightful gluten-free treat!
Why You’ll Love It
- 100% gluten-free – Perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Quick & easy – Only 15 minutes to prepare (excluding meringue baking time)!
- Customizable – Swap in your favorite fruits or add nuts for extra crunch.
Indulge in this heavenly gluten-free dessert and impress your guests with its stunning presentation and incredible taste. Enjoy!
