Classic Lamingtons Recipe: A Delightful Australian Treat

Lamingtons are a quintessential Australian dessert that brings back fond memories for many. Whether you remember them from school bake sales or family gatherings, these chocolate and coconut-coated sponge cakes have a special place in the hearts of those who grew up with them. The contrast between the soft sponge, rich chocolate coating, and the slightly chewy texture of coconut makes lamingtons a unique treat that’s hard to resist.

The Charm of Lamingtons

This recipe is special to me because it reminds me of weekend baking sessions with my grandmother. We would make a batch of lamingtons and enjoy them with a cup of tea in the afternoon. They're the perfect balance of sweetness and texture, and they’re surprisingly easy to make! Lamingtons are great for sharing at parties or just enjoying as an afternoon snack.

Recipe Overview

Name of the Recipe: Classic Lamingtons

Description: Soft sponge cakes coated in a rich chocolate icing and rolled in desiccated coconut. These lamingtons are a classic Australian dessert that's perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 3 cups (300g) desiccated coconut
• 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup (50g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3/4 cup (180ml) boiling water
• 2 tbsp butter, softened

Substitutions: You can use a gluten-free flour blend if you need a gluten-free option. For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk with almond or soy milk and use dairy-free butter.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Batter: In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add in the melted butter and vanilla extract, mixing well. Sift in the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Stir in the milk until the batter is smooth.
3. Bake the Sponge: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Cut and Chill: Once the sponge cake is completely cool, cut it into even squares, about 2 inches in size. Place the squares on a baking sheet and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the cake hold its shape when dipping in the chocolate.
5. Prepare the Chocolate Icing: In a large bowl, sift the powdered sugar and cocoa powder together. Add the softened butter and boiling water, whisking until smooth and glossy.
6. Coat the Lamingtons: Place the desiccated coconut in a shallow dish. Using a fork, dip each sponge square into the chocolate icing, allowing excess to drip off. Roll the coated sponge in the coconut, making sure all sides are covered. Place on a wire rack to set.
7. Set and Serve: Allow the lamingtons to set at room temperature or in the fridge until the icing is firm. Serve with a cup of tea or coffee.

Tips and Tricks: It's essential to chill the sponge cake before dipping it in the chocolate icing. This prevents the cake from crumbling and helps it hold its shape. If the icing starts to thicken as you dip, add a little more boiling water to keep it smooth.

Cooking Times

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Chilling Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Serving Suggestions

Serving Size: This recipe makes about 16 lamingtons.

Lamingtons are perfect for serving at afternoon tea, picnics, or as a sweet treat after dinner. They pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, you can serve them with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries on the side.

Storage and Reheating

Storage Tips: Store lamingtons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. They also freeze well for up to 2 months. Just thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating Instructions: If you prefer your lamingtons warm, you can microwave them for a few seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as the icing may melt.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I make lamingtons in advance? Yes, lamingtons can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container. In fact, they taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
• Can I use different flavors? Absolutely! You can add a few drops of raspberry or strawberry extract to the icing for a fruity twist. Alternatively, dip the lamingtons in a thin layer of jam before coating with chocolate for an extra layer of flavor.
• Can I use shredded coconut instead of desiccated? Yes, but desiccated coconut is finer and adheres better to the chocolate coating. If using shredded coconut, make sure to press it onto the lamingtons to ensure it sticks well.

Conclusion

Classic lamingtons are a delightful treat that's sure to impress your family and friends. With their soft sponge, rich chocolate coating, and coconut crunch, they're the perfect addition to any dessert table. This recipe is simple enough for beginners yet impressive enough for experienced bakers. So, why not give it a try? Share your lamington creations with us in the comments below, and don’t forget to follow our blog for more delicious recipes!

Happy baking!