Lamingtons Recipe

If you’re craving a nostalgic treat that instantly transports you to sunny afternoons and comforting chats with friends, this Lamingtons Recipe is your new best friend. These delightful little sponge cake squares, dipped in rich chocolate icing and rolled in flaky coconut, strike the perfect balance between soft, sweet, and slightly chewy. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a simple afternoon pick-me-up, making Lamingtons from scratch is simpler than you think, and the result is nothing short of magical.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Lamingtons Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a pivotal role in delivering the cake’s tender crumb, luscious chocolate coating, and that signature coconut crunch. Let’s dive into these essentials!

• 1¾ cup all-purpose flour (210g): The base of your cake providing a soft structure.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully, giving it that perfect fluffy texture.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
• ½ cup unsalted butter (113g): Adds richness and moisture to the cake.
• 1 cup superfine sugar (caster sugar) (200g): Sweetens the cake finely and blends effortlessly.
• 3 large eggs: Binds ingredients and adds to the cake’s lightness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Boosts flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
• ½ cup whole milk (120ml): Keeps the cake moist and tender.
• 4 cups powdered sugar (icing sugar) (480g): Key to a glossy, smooth chocolate icing.
• ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (25g): Gives the icing its rich chocolate intensity.
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Adds silkiness to the chocolate icing.
• ½ cup boiling water (120ml): Dissolves ingredients in the icing and helps create a luscious texture.
• 3 cups desiccated coconut (240g): The signature coating that adds delightful texture and a burst of flavor.

How to Make Lamingtons Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat

Start by getting your oven ready at 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8×12-inch cake pan and line it thoroughly with parchment paper, leaving the edges hanging over the sides. This makes removing the cake a breeze once baked.

Step 2: Sift Dry Ingredients Together

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures an even distribution of leavening agents and salt, which is crucial for an even rise and perfect flavor balance in the cake.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment or a hand mixer, beat the butter and sugar together until the mixture is fluffy and lightened in color, about 2 to 3 minutes. This process traps air, helping your cake stay tender and airy.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well between each addition to fully incorporate. Scrape down the bowl as needed to keep everything uniform. Mix in the vanilla extract to fill your batter with aromatic warmth.

Step 5: Alternate Flour and Milk

With the mixer set to low speed, add one-third of the flour mixture, followed by half of the milk. Continue alternating between the remaining flour and milk until everything is combined. This slow incorporation helps maintain a smooth batter that bakes evenly without becoming dense.

Step 6: Bake Your Sponge

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for 18 to 20 minutes. Test with a wooden pick—it should come out clean when the cake is ready. Let the cake cool in the pan for 20 minutes before flipping it onto a cooling rack to cool completely. Removing the parchment at this stage prevents sogginess.

Step 7: Cut the Cake into Squares

Once the cake is completely cool, cut it neatly into 24 equal 2-inch squares. If the edges are a bit crisp, trim them off—they won’t absorb the chocolate icing as beautifully and can be a little tougher to enjoy.

Step 8: Mix the Chocolate Icing

In a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, cocoa powder, butter, and boiling water until smooth and silky. This luscious chocolate icing is the heart of every perfect Lamington.

Step 9: Set Up for Coating

Prepare your workspace by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper and placing a wire rack on top—this is where your coated lamingtons will dry. Pour the desiccated coconut into a small shallow bowl, making it easy to roll your cakes in the classic coating.

Step 10: Coat Each Cake Square

Using a fork, dip each cake square into the chocolate icing, allowing excess icing to drip off before moving it into the coconut. Roll well until fully coated and place the lamington carefully on the wire rack to dry. Repeat until all squares are luxuriously covered.

Step 11: Let Them Dry

Allow your Lamingtons to dry completely for about 20 minutes. This final step ensures the chocolate icing sets just right and the coconut sticks perfectly, giving you that authentic Lamington texture we all adore.

How to Serve Lamingtons Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra touch of fun and flavor, try sprinkling a few extra desiccated coconut flakes on top or dusting with a little cocoa powder before serving. Edible flowers or a drizzle of white chocolate can add a beautiful visual contrast that’s sure to impress your guests.

Side Dishes

Lamingtons are a delightful treat on their own but pair wonderfully with fresh berries, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a dollop of whipped cream. These accompaniments add freshness and creaminess that balance the sweet richness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Instead of classic squares, try cutting the cake into fun shapes using cookie cutters. Stack the Lamingtons for a towering dessert centerpiece or serve them in individual paper cups for easy handling at parties. You can even transform them into mini Lamington trifle jars with layers of cream and berries.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once dry, store leftover Lamingtons in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 to 4 days. This keeps them soft and moist while maintaining the integrity of the coconut coating. Avoid refrigerating as this can harden the icing and dry out the cake.

Freezing

You can freeze Lamingtons by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When wrapped properly, they can last up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating

While Lamingtons are best enjoyed fresh or at room temperature, a quick 10-second zap in the microwave can refresh their softness if they feel a bit stale. Be careful not to heat too long, as it can melt the icing and coconut coating.

FAQs

What makes Lamingtons so special?

Lamingtons are iconic because of their unique combination of soft sponge cake dipped in chocolate icing and rolled in coconut, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors that are both nostalgic and utterly delicious.

Can I use gluten-free flour for this Lamingtons Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but results may vary slightly in texture. Make sure your baking powder and other ingredients are gluten-free as well to maintain the best results.

How do I know when the cake is fully baked?

Insert a wooden pick or toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean without wet batter clinging to it, your cake is perfectly baked—moist but not undercooked.

Can I make Lamingtons without coconut?

While coconut is traditional, you can get creative by rolling the chocolate-coated cakes in chopped nuts, sprinkles, or even crushed biscuits for a different but equally delicious twist.

Is it necessary to let the Lamingtons dry?

Yes, letting them dry helps the chocolate icing set properly and ensures the coconut sticks well, giving you that classic look and texture that makes this Lamingtons Recipe so irresistible.

Final Thoughts

Making this Lamingtons Recipe is like inviting a little piece of Australian tradition and comfort into your kitchen — simple, satisfying, and utterly scrumptious. Once you taste these fluffy, chocolaty, coconut-coated treats, you’ll understand why they’re a favorite for all ages and occasions. So don’t hesitate, grab your ingredients, and start baking these charming delights today. Your next favorite dessert moment awaits!

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