Lamingtons are a beloved Australian treat made from squares of sponge cake that are dipped in chocolate and rolled in desiccated coconut. They’re deliciously moist, light, and perfect for a sweet snack or dessert. Here’s a classic recipe to make Lamingtons at home.
Lamington Cake Recipe:
For the Sponge Cake:
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups (190g) plain (all-purpose) flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (150g) caster (superfine) sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup (120ml) milk
For the Chocolate Coating:
Ingredients:
- 3 cups (240g) powdered (confectioners’) sugar
- ½ cup (45g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ cup (60ml) milk
- 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Rolling:
- 2 cups (150g) desiccated coconut
Instructions:
1. Make the Sponge Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch (20cm) square baking tin with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, beat together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, using an electric mixer or hand whisk.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking tin, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Prepare the Chocolate Coating:
- In a medium-sized bowl, sift together the powdered sugar and cocoa powder.
- Add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture becomes smooth and glossy.
3. Assemble the Lamingtons:
- Once the cake has cooled, cut it into 16 square pieces.
- Pour the desiccated coconut into a shallow dish.
- Dip each square of cake into the chocolate coating, using a fork to hold it and letting the excess chocolate drip off.
- Immediately roll the coated cake in the desiccated coconut until fully covered. Repeat with all cake pieces.
4. Serving and Storing:
- Place the finished Lamingtons on a tray or plate and allow them to set for about 30 minutes.
- Lamingtons are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Lamingtons with a cup of tea or coffee!