Lamingtons Recipe

If you have a sweet tooth and a love for classic treats, you are going to adore this Lamingtons Recipe. These charming little sponge cake squares are dipped in a rich chocolate icing then rolled in fluffy desiccated coconut, creating a perfect balance of moist, sweet, and textured bites that practically melt in your mouth. Lamingtons are an Australian favorite that, once you try, will find a special place in your heart and your dessert rotation. I’m beyond excited to share this recipe with you—it’s truly a delightful way to celebrate any occasion or simply enjoy a comforting homemade sweet treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward, with each playing a vital role in creating the perfect Lamingtons. From the soft sponge base to the luscious chocolate icing and the coconut coating, every component works in harmony to deliver that iconic taste and texture we crave.

• All-purpose flour (1¾ cup / 210g): Provides the structure for your soft and fluffy sponge.
• Baking powder (1 tablespoon): Gives the cake its light and airy rise.
• Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Unsalted butter (½ cup / 113g): Adds richness and tenderness to the cake.
• Superfine sugar (1 cup / 200g): Sweetens and helps create that lovely golden crumb.
• Large eggs (3): Bind the ingredients while contributing moisture and structure.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Offers a warm, aromatic depth to the sponge.
• Whole milk (½ cup / 120ml): Moistens the batter for a tender crumb.
• Powdered sugar (4 cups / 480g): Forms the base of the glossy, chocolatey icing.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder (⅓ cup / 25g): Brings that rich chocolate flavor to the icing.
• Unsalted butter (1 tablespoon): Makes the icing silky and smooth.
• Boiling water (½ cup / 120ml): Helps blend the icing ingredients into a shiny, pourable glaze.
• Desiccated coconut (3 cups / 240g): Coats the chocolate icing with a delightful texture and tropical flair.

How to Make Lamingtons Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (180°C) and prepare an 8×12-inch cake pan by greasing it thoroughly. Lining it with parchment paper that extends over the sides ensures you can easily lift the cake out once it’s baked. This foundational step makes a big difference for smooth removal without a crumbly catastrophe.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Combining these dry ingredients first ensures a uniform rise and even texture in your sponge, setting the stage for perfectly tender Lamingtons.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using an electric mixer, beat the butter and superfine sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process incorporates air for a soft crumb and adds a luscious richness, which is essential for the texture that makes Lamingtons so beloved.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly before adding the next. Don’t forget to scrape down the bowl occasionally to keep everything well combined. Then stir in the vanilla extract for a lovely fragrant touch that enhances the overall flavor.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

On low speed, alternately add the flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture in thirds and halves, starting and ending with the flour. This method gently blends everything without overmixing, helping your sponge stay tender.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour your batter into the prepared pan and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until a wooden pick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 20 minutes before gently inverting it onto a wire rack, removing the parchment, and allowing it to cool completely.

Step 7: Cut the Cake

Once cooled, slice the sponge carefully into 24 (2-inch) squares. Trim off any crispy edges for the best texture in every bite, ensuring your Lamingtons are uniformly soft and delicious.

Step 8: Prepare the Icing

Whisk together the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, butter, and boiling water until smooth. This glossy chocolate icing is the hallmark of the Lamingtons Recipe and so important for coating each bite with sweet decadence.

Step 9: Set Up for Coating

Line a baking sheet with parchment and place a wire rack on top. Pour the desiccated coconut into a shallow bowl, ready for dipping. Setting up your workspace this way keeps the process tidy and efficient.

Step 10: Coat the Lamingtons

Using a fork, dip each cake square into the chocolate icing, letting the excess drip off, then roll it in the coconut until thoroughly coated. Place the coated squares on the wire rack to dry. Repeat with all squares for a batch of perfect Lamingtons.

Step 11: Let Dry and Serve

Allow your Lamingtons to dry completely, about 20 minutes, so the icing sets just right. These sweet little treats are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored smartly for a few days too.

How to Serve Lamingtons Recipe

Garnishes

While the classic Lamingtons are stunning on their own, you can add a few garnishes to elevate the presentation. Try dusting them lightly with extra powdered sugar for a snowy finish or sprinkle some finely chopped toasted nuts over the coconut for a crunchy surprise.

Side Dishes

Lamingtons pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them a perfect afternoon treat. Consider serving alongside fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream, which adds a fruity freshness and creamy contrast to the rich chocolate and coconut flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist on the traditional, serve your Lamingtons in individual mini cupcake liners or stack them in a pyramid on a decorative plate. You might even skewer a few with cocktail sticks to create bite-sized Lamington pops that are fantastic for parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Lamingtons keep wonderfully at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days. This makes them a perfect make-ahead treat for gatherings or simply to satisfy your cravings throughout the week.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy Lamingtons later, freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then stored in an airtight container or freezer bag. They will stay fresh for up to 2 months, ready to thaw whenever a sweet craving hits.

Reheating

Because these are best enjoyed at room temperature, simply thaw frozen Lamingtons overnight in the fridge and bring them to room temp before serving. Avoid microwaving as this can affect the texture of the coconut coating and icing.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour for the sponge?

While all-purpose flour works best for the perfect Lamingtons texture, you can substitute with cake flour for an even lighter crumb. Just be aware it might slightly change the structure of the cake.

Is it okay to use vegetable oil instead of butter in the cake?

Butter adds richness and flavor to Lamingtons that oil can’t quite replicate, so it’s best to stick with butter for this recipe. The flavor and texture depend on it.

Can I make this Lamingtons Recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend. Make sure your baking powder is gluten-free too, and the results will still be delicious.

How do I prevent the chocolate icing from being too runny?

Ensure you measure the boiling water precisely and whisk the icing thoroughly. If it’s too runny, add a little more powdered sugar a tablespoon at a time until thickened.

What type of coconut is best for coating?

Desiccated (dry shredded) coconut works best as it adheres well to the icing and provides the classic texture. Avoid sweetened or flake coconut for the traditional Lamingtons experience.

Final Thoughts

This Lamingtons Recipe is one of those joyful kitchen projects that rewards you with unmistakably delicious results every time. It’s nostalgic, fun to make, and absolutely irresistible to share. I encourage you to dive into making these charming treats yourself—you’ll find they bring sweetness and smiles to every table.

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