Lamingtons are an iconic Australian dessert that has won the hearts of sweet lovers around the world. These delightful sponge cakes, coated in luscious chocolate and rolled in desiccated coconut, make for an irresistible treat, perfect for afternoon tea or special occasions. If you’ve ever wanted to create these delicious bites from scratch, you’re in for a real treat. Here’s a detailed guide to making your own lamingtons that will impress your family and friends!
Ingredients
Before you dive into the baking adventure, gather the essential ingredients: stay with worldyfoods
For the Sponge Cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (plus extra for greasing)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Coating:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup milk (you might need a bit more for the ideal consistency)
- 2 cups desiccated coconut (for rolling)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sponge Cake
Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and line a square baking pan (around 9×9 inches) with parchment paper to ensure the cake comes out easily.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder, setting this aside for later.
Cream Butter and Sugar
In a larger mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it helps to incorporate air, resulting in a tender sponge cake.
Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. After the eggs, stir in the vanilla extract, enhancing the flavor of your cake.
Combine the Mixtures
Gradually alternate adding the dry mixture and the milk into your butter mixture. Start with about one-third of the dry ingredients followed by one-third of the milk. Repeat this process until everything is combined. Remember, a few lumps are perfectly acceptable; you want to avoid overmixing.
Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Coating
Prepare the Chocolate Mixture
In a medium mixing bowl, sift together the powdered sugar and cocoa powder. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring until the mixture is smooth and slightly runny. The consistency should be thick enough to coat the sponge but not so thick that it becomes difficult to dip.
Set Up Your Coconut
Pour desiccated coconut onto a large plate; this will be essential for rolling your coated lamingtons.
Step 3: Assemble the Lamingtons
Cut the Cake
Once the sponge has cooled completely, cut it into squares or rectangles—this is where the fun truly begins!
Coat the Cake
Dip each piece of cake into the chocolate mixture, ensuring it’s fully covered. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off, then roll the cake in the desiccated coconut until it’s completely coated.
Let Them Set
Place the coated lamingtons on a wire rack or a plate. Let them sit for a few minutes to allow the chocolate coating to firm up before indulging.
Tips for Perfect Lamingtons
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter and better incorporation.
- Don’t Overmix: Mixing until just combined keeps the cake light and fluffy—overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
- Experiment with Flavors: Consider adding a touch of lemon zest to the sponge for a refreshing twist, or even some shredded chocolate for added richness.
Video:
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short informational about lamingtons
Lamingtons are a popular Australian dessert made from squares of sponge cake that are dipped in chocolate icing and rolled in desiccated coconut. They are often filled with jam or cream, adding extra flavor and moisture. The origin of lamingtons is believed to date back to the early 20th century, and they are named after Lord Lamington, who was the Governor of Queensland.
Serving Suggestions
Lamingtons are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for a few days. Serve with a cup of tea or coffee to enhance the experience. For an indulgent twist, pair lamingtons with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert.
Conclusion
Making lamingtons is not only a fun baking project, but it also offers a taste of Australia’s culinary heritage. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or experiment with inventive variations, these sweet treats are guaranteed to bring joy to any gathering. So gather your ingredients, invite some friends over, and enjoy the experience of creating and sharing these delectable bites together! Happy baking!