If you’re craving a treat that’s nostalgic, eye-catching, and absolutely irresistible, this Lamingtons Recipe is destined to become a star in your dessert repertoire. These fluffy Australian sponge cakes are enrobed in rich chocolate then rolled generously in crisp coconut for a contrast that’s nothing short of magical. Each bite is a trip down memory lane (or a tasty discovery if you haven’t tried them yet)—tender cake, decadent chocolate, and coconut all mingling in a handheld delight. Get ready to fall in love with this beloved classic!
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about a Lamingtons Recipe is its simplicity—basic pantry staples combine to create a treat that’s so much more than the sum of its parts. Each ingredient brings its own flair, whether it’s the richness of butter, the sweetness of coconut, or the lush texture of sponge cake.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Creamy butter creates a rich, tender crumb in your cake layer—remember to use it at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Adds just the right touch of sweetness and helps with the cake’s lovely golden crust.
- Large eggs (4): These bind everything together and envelop the batter with lightness so your lamingtons are sky-high fluffy.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): A splash of vanilla makes the flavor pop and gives your cake a warm, bakery-style aroma.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): This all-star ingredient is the backbone of the cake, contributing to structure without heaviness.
- Baking powder (2 teaspoons): Vital for that just-right lift and irresistible sponginess in every bite.
- Whole milk (1/2 cup): Makes the batter silky and assures a moist, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Powdered sugar (3 1/2 cups) for coating: Gives the chocolate a dreamy, glossy finish that clings to every side.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (1/3 cup) for coating: For pure chocolate flavor, be sure to use a good-quality cocoa powder.
- Boiling water (3/4 cup) for coating: The secret to a smooth, easy-dipping chocolate icing.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons, melted) for coating: Rounds out the chocolate flavor and adds extra shine.
- Desiccated coconut (2 1/2 cups) for assembling: This snowy layer not only looks pretty, but gives every bite an irresistible crunch.
How to Make Lamingtons Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line the bottom with parchment paper. This step ensures nothing sticks and guarantees your cake pops out perfectly every time.
Step 2: Cream Butter, Sugar, and Eggs
In a large bowl, use a mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture looks pale and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Finish with the vanilla extract for an enchanting aroma that fills your kitchen.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. This helps distribute the baking powder evenly, so every square is beautifully light.
Step 4: Finish the Batter
Alternately add the dry ingredients and whole milk to the wet mixture, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. This gentler approach keeps your batter light and airy for a perfectly tender bake.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the luscious batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely—patience is key for a perfect Lamingtons Recipe!
Step 6: Chill and Slice the Cake
Once fully cooled, cut the cake into 24 even squares. Place the squares in the freezer for 30 minutes. This step makes dipping and coating a breeze: no more crumbs in your chocolate!
Step 7: Prepare the Chocolate Coating
In a medium bowl, sift together the powdered sugar and cocoa powder. Stir in the boiling water and melted butter until everything is satiny smooth. This is what makes lamingtons genuinely craveable.
Step 8: Dip and Roll!
Set up your assembly line: have your chocolate coating ready in one bowl and the desiccated coconut in a shallow dish. Using a fork or skewer, dip each cake square into the chocolate, letting any excess drip off. Immediately roll in coconut to coat every side. Place on a wire rack to set, and admire your handiwork!
How to Serve Lamingtons Recipe
Garnishes
Lamingtons don’t need much fanfare, but a dusting of extra powdered sugar or a sprinkle of dried rose petals can add a festive flourish. If you want to gild the lily, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh berries on the side.
Side Dishes
These treats are absolute showstoppers with a cup of robust black tea or hot chocolate. For a summery twist, serve alongside a bowl of fresh fruit salad or creamy vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack lamingtons on a tiered cake stand for an elegant afternoon tea display, or wrap each one in wax paper and twine for an adorable party favor. You can even sandwich two lamingtons together with a swipe of raspberry jam or whipped cream for a decadent surprise—perfect for special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any remaining Lamingtons Recipe squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The coconut helps lock in moisture, so they’ll stay tender and delicious, making them perfect for make-ahead entertaining or easy snacking.
Freezing
If you want to keep lamingtons even longer, freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep beautifully for up to a month—just let them thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
Lamingtons are best enjoyed at room temperature, but if you’d like to refresh them, pop one in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. This perks up the cake and ever-so-slightly melts the chocolate, making it extra dreamy.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought sponge cake for this Lamingtons Recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought sponge works in a pinch, though homemade gives you that classic flavor and texture. Just make sure it’s firm enough to withstand dipping and coating.
What’s the best way to avoid crumbs in the chocolate coating?
Freezing the cake squares briefly is a real lifesaver here. Firm, chilled cake holds together much better as you dip, keeping your chocolate silky and crumb-free throughout the process.
Can I use sweetened coconut instead of desiccated coconut?
Yes, if you like things extra sweet and chewy, go for sweetened coconut, though the classic Lamingtons Recipe uses unsweetened desiccated coconut for that signature texture and appearance.
What’s a good substitute for whole milk in this Lamingtons Recipe?
If you don’t have whole milk, you can substitute 2% milk or a non-dairy alternative like almond milk, though the cake may be slightly less rich. Whichever you use, make sure it’s at room temperature!
Can I add a filling to my lamingtons?
Definitely! Many folks love to split the squares and add a layer of raspberry jam or whipped cream for a luscious twist. Just be mindful that filled lamingtons should be enjoyed within a day or so for maximum freshness.
Final Thoughts
With their charming appearance and downright addictive combination of flavors, this Lamingtons Recipe truly captures the joy of homemade baking. Don’t be surprised if they disappear as quickly as you make them—they’re a crowd-pleasing treasure, perfect for sharing or savoring one delicious square at a time.
Print
Lamingtons Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 lamingtons
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Learn how to make classic Lamingtons, a beloved Australian dessert featuring soft sponge cake dipped in chocolate and coated with desiccated coconut. These sweet treats are perfect for any occasion and are sure to delight your taste buds!
Ingredients
Cake:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 cup whole milk
Chocolate Coating:
3 1/2 cups powdered sugar; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 3/4 cup boiling water; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Assembling:
2 1/2 cups desiccated coconut
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake: Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. Cream butter and sugar, add eggs one at a time, mix in vanilla. Combine flour and baking powder. Alternately add dry ingredients and milk to the wet mixture. Bake for 25–30 minutes, then cool and cut into squares.
- Make the Coating: Sift powdered sugar and cocoa powder, add boiling water and butter. Dip cake squares in the chocolate mixture, then coat with coconut.
Notes
- Freezing the cake squares briefly makes them easier to dip.
- Lamingtons are traditionally served plain, but you can sandwich two with jam or whipped cream for a twist.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus 30 minutes freezing time)
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Australian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 lamington
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 90 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 31 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg
