Lamingtons
are a classic Australian dessert that consists of small squares of sponge cake coated in a layer of chocolate icing and then rolled in desiccated coconut. These delightful treats are named after Lord Lamington, who served as the Governor of Queensland, Australia, in the late 19th century. Lamingtons are a beloved and iconic sweet snack in Australia, often enjoyed at parties, picnics, and afternoon tea.
Ingredients:
For the Sponge Cake:
- - 2 cups all-purpose flour
- - 2 teaspoons baking powder
- - 1/4 teaspoon salt
- - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- - 1 cup granulated sugar
- - 2 large eggs
- - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- - 1/2 cup milk
For the Chocolate Icing:
- - 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar (confectioner's sugar)
- - 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- - 1/2 cup milk
- - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Coating:
- - 2 cups desiccated coconut
Instructions:
Preparing the Sponge Cake:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a separate mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Coating the Cake:
9. Once the cake has cooled, cut it into squares or rectangles, typically about 2x2 inches in size.
10. Place the desiccated coconut in a shallow bowl.
Making the Chocolate Icing:
11. In a mixing bowl, sift together the powdered sugar and cocoa powder.
12. Add the melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract to the powdered sugar mixture. Whisk until smooth and well combined. You should have a thick but pourable icing.
Coating the Lamingtons:
13. Using a fork or wooden skewer, dip each square of cake into the chocolate icing, ensuring it's fully coated.
14. Allow any excess icing to drip off, then roll the coated cake square in the desiccated coconut until it's evenly covered.
15. Place the coated Lamingtons on a wire rack to set. The icing will firm up as it cools.
16. Repeat the dipping and coating process with the remaining cake squares.
Serve and Enjoy:
17. Once the icing has set, your Lamingtons are ready to be served. Enjoy these delicious treats with a cup of tea or coffee!
Lamingtons are a delightful and iconic Australian dessert, and they're perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any time. The combination of soft sponge cake, rich chocolate icing, and sweet coconut coating is truly delightful.
