What if the baked Alaska cake is left in oven for 3 minutes?

If you leave a baked Alaska in the oven for 3 minutes, the results will be disastrous. Here's why:

* The meringue will burn: Meringue is extremely delicate and burns easily. Even a few extra minutes in the oven will turn it into a crispy, brown mess.

* The ice cream will melt: The entire point of a baked Alaska is to keep the ice cream frozen while the meringue is baked. Even a short time in the oven will significantly soften and even melt the ice cream, ruining its texture.

* The cake will dry out: While the cake might not burn in 3 minutes, it will become dry and hard.

Instead of leaving it in the oven longer, focus on getting the meringue properly baked:

* Use a hot oven: A very hot oven (400°F to 450°F) is essential for baking the meringue quickly.

* Watch closely: Keep a close eye on the meringue and remove it as soon as it's golden brown and firm.

* Use a thermometer: A kitchen thermometer inserted into the center of the meringue can help you ensure it's cooked through without overdoing it.

Remember, baked Alaska is a dish where timing is crucial. You need to be quick and accurate to achieve the perfect combination of crispy meringue and frozen ice cream.