When you think of desserts, what comes to mind? Cake, of course! But have you ever heard of Lamingtons? This delightful treat hails from Australia and is sure to sweeten your day. Imagine soft, fluffy cake cubes dipped in rich chocolate and rolled in desiccated coconut. Sounds delicious, right? In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the world of Lamingtons. You’ll discover their history, how to make them, and even explore variations like the Lamington Tres Leches Cake. So grab your apron, and let’s get baking!
About Lamingtons
Lamingtons are a classic Australian dessert made from sponge cake that is cut into squares, dipped in chocolate, and rolled in coconut. The origins of Lamingtons are a bit unclear. Some say they were named after Lord Lamington, a governor of Queensland. Others believe they were created by accident when a chef dropped sponge cake into chocolate. Regardless of their history, Lamingtons are now a beloved treat, enjoyed at parties, celebrations, and afternoon teas across Australia and beyond.
Not only are they delicious, but they are also fun to make! You can customize Lamingtons with different fillings or toppings. They are often served with tea or coffee, making them perfect for gatherings.
More Cake Recipes
If you love cake, you might enjoy trying your hand at other types of cakes as well. Here are a few suggestions:
- Chocolate Cake: A rich and moist classic that never disappoints.
- Vanilla Pound Cake: Perfectly simple and great with tea.
- Carrot Cake: A deliciously spiced cake with cream cheese frosting.
- Red Velvet Cake: A showstopper with its vibrant color and creamy icing.
Each of these cakes has its unique charm. So, if you’re feeling adventurous after mastering Lamingtons, why not give one of these recipes a try?
Lamingtons Ingredients
Now that you’re excited to make Lamingtons, let’s look at the ingredients you’ll need. This recipe is simple, and you may already have most of the ingredients in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Sponge Cake:
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour: This is the base of your cake.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise.
- 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter: Adds richness.
- 1/2 cup (100g) sugar: For sweetness.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together.
- 1/2 cup (120ml) milk: Keeps the cake moist.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor.
For the Chocolate Glaze:
- 2 cups (250g) powdered sugar: For sweetness and thickness.
- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk: To help mix the glaze.
- 1/4 cup (30g) cocoa powder: For that rich chocolate flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth to the glaze.
For Coating:
- 1 cup (100g) desiccated coconut: This gives Lamingtons their signature texture.
Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be ready to create a delicious batch of Lamingtons!
How to Make Lamingtons in 6 Easy Steps
Making Lamingtons is easier than you might think. Follow these six simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying your homemade treats in no time!
Step 1: Pre-Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and line a square baking pan with parchment paper. This will ensure your cake comes out easily.
Step 2: Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. This helps combine the dry ingredients evenly.
Step 3: Creaming Butter & Sugar
In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. It’s a crucial step for a light cake!
Step 4: Making Cake Batter
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, mix in the milk and vanilla. Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix!
Step 5: Baking the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely in the pan.
Step 6: Make Chocolate Glaze
While the cake cools, prepare the chocolate glaze. In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
Now your cake is ready for the next steps!
How to Make Lamingtons (Stepwise Pictures)
Ingredients
- Cake: As mentioned above.
- Glaze: Already prepared.
- Coconut: For coating.
Pre-Prep
- Preheat your oven and line the baking pan.
Dry Ingredients
- Whisk the flour and baking powder together.
Creaming Butter & Sugar
- Cream until fluffy.
Making Cake Batter
- Combine wet and dry ingredients.
Baking the Cake
- Bake until a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool.
Make Chocolate Glaze
- Mix the ingredients until smooth.
Now comes the fun part: cutting and coating your Lamingtons!
Cutting Cake into Cubes
Once your cake has cooled, it’s time to cut it into cubes. Here’s how:
- Remove from Pan: Carefully lift the cake from the pan using the parchment paper.
- Cut into Squares: Use a sharp knife to cut the cake into even squares, about 2 inches by 2 inches.
- Prepare for Coating: Place the cut squares on a wire rack to catch any excess glaze.
Cutting the cake into uniform pieces will help ensure that all your Lamingtons are equally delicious!
Coating Lamingtons
Now that you have your cake cubes, it’s time to coat them. Follow these steps:
- Dip in Chocolate Glaze: Take one cake cube and dip it into the chocolate glaze, ensuring all sides are covered.
- Roll in Coconut: Immediately roll the glazed cube in desiccated coconut until it’s fully coated.
- Place on Wire Rack: Set the coated Lamington on the wire rack to let the glaze set.
Repeat these steps for each cake cube. Your kitchen will soon smell amazing!
Expert Tips
To make your Lamingtons truly special, here are a few expert tips:
- Use Fresh Coconut: If possible, use fresh coconut for a richer flavor.
- Flavor Variations: Try adding almond extract to the cake batter for a different flavor.
- Storing: Store your Lamingtons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze uncoated cake cubes for later use. Just thaw and coat when ready to enjoy.
These tips will help ensure your Lamingtons are a hit!
Serving & Storage
Serving Lamingtons is a delightful experience. They are best enjoyed fresh but can also be stored for later. Here’s how:
Serving
- Serve with tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
- Add a scoop of ice cream on the side for an extra special dessert.
Storage
- At Room Temperature: Keep them in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- In the Fridge: They can last up to a week in the fridge.
- Freezing: Uncoated cake cubes can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Enjoy your Lamingtons fresh or save some for later!
Lamington Tres Leches Cake
Looking for a twist on the classic Lamington? Try the Lamington Tres Leches Cake! This variation combines the traditional sponge cake with a creamy tres leches soaking. Here’s a quick overview of how to make it:
- Make the Sponge Cake: Follow the Lamington cake recipe.
- Prepare the Tres Leches Mixture: Combine three types of milk (evaporated, condensed, and whole milk).
- Soak the Cake: After baking, poke holes in the cake and pour the tres leches mixture over it.
- Coat with Glaze and Coconut: Once soaked, dip in chocolate glaze and roll in coconut.
This version is moist, rich, and simply irresistible!
Lamington Cake
Lamington Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration. Each bite offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or explore new variations, Lamingtons are sure to impress your family and friends.
Reader Comments
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About Lorraine Elliott
Lorraine Elliott is a passionate food writer and recipe developer. With years of experience in the kitchen, she loves to share her culinary adventures with others. Her recipes are designed to be approachable for all skill levels, making cooking a joy for everyone.
Lamingtons Cake Recipe
Description
Experience the heavenly blend of moist sponge cake, luscious chocolate coating, and coconut flakes in every bite of these Lamingtons. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned baker, this recipe promises a delectable outcome that will leave everyone craving for more.
Lamingtons Cake Recipe
Chocolate sprinkles, chopped nuts
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Oven Prep
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
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Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
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Wet Mix
In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
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Egg Incorporation
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
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Mixture Incorporation
Gradually add the flour mixture into the creamed mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until well combined.
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Batter Spread
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
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Baking Time
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cake Cooling
Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
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Cake Cutting
Once cooled, cut the cake into squares or rectangles.
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Coconut Mixture
In a bowl, combine the desiccated coconut and icing sugar.
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Cocoa Paste
In another bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder and boiling water until smooth.
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Coating Process
Dip each cake square into the chocolate mixture, then roll it in the coconut mixture until evenly coated.
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Setting Stage
Place the coated Lamingtons on a wire rack to set for at least an hour before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 10
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 250kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 18g28%
- Saturated Fat 40g200%
- Cholesterol 70mg24%
- Sodium 150mg7%
- Total Carbohydrate 33g11%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 20g
- Protein 4g8%
- Vitamin A 100 IU
- Calcium 40 mg
- Iron 1.5 mg
- Vitamin D 20 IU
- Vitamin E 1 IU
- Thiamin 0.1 mg
- Riboflavin 0.2 mg
- Niacin 1 mg
- Vitamin B6 0.1 mg
- Folate 40 mcg
- Vitamin B12 0.5 mcg
- Pantothenic Acid 0.5 mg
- Phosphorus 60 mg
- Magnesium 20 mg
- Zinc 0.5 mg
- Selenium 5 mcg
- Copper 0.1 mg
- Manganese 0.19 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Elevate the flavor of your Lamingtons by using high-quality chocolate and fresh coconut flakes. Ensure the cake is completely cooled before dipping into the chocolate mixture to prevent it from crumbling. For a richer taste, you can add a splash of coffee to the chocolate coating. Feel free to customize your Lamingtons by experimenting with different toppings such as chopped nuts or colorful sprinkles. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.