Classic Lamingtons are not just any dessert; they are a nostalgic journey back to sunny afternoons filled with laughter and the sweet aroma of baked treats. This delightful recipe combines a spongy cake with a luscious chocolate glaze, all encased in a crispy coating of desiccated coconut. Few desserts can capture the essence of home like these simple yet indulgent lamingtons, perfect for afternoon tea, summer picnics, or even just a cozy night at home.
The beauty of Classic Lamingtons lies in their versatility. You can experiment with different types of chocolate—milk for a sweeter touch or dark for a richer flavor. Additionally, they are incredibly easy to create, making them accessible even for novice bakers. Imagine the smiles on your family and friends’ faces as they savor the sweet, fluffy cake, and the satisfying crunch from the coconut coating. This treat promises to be a showstopper at any gathering, providing a wonderful contrast in textures that beckon for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Classic Lamingtons
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of rich chocolate and coconut is irresistible and sure to please any sweet tooth.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, these lamingtons are easy to whip up at any time.
- Versatile Recipe: Customize them with different chocolates or fillings to suit your preference.
- Great for Sharing: Perfect for gatherings, parties, or even just enjoying with loved ones.
- Fun to Make: Kids will love helping with the dipping and rolling process!
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the joy of baking Classic Lamingtons, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing and lining your 20cm square baking tin will prevent the sponge from sticking and ensure a smooth release after baking.
For mixing, a large mixing bowl is necessary, ideally accompanied by an electric mixer to achieve that fluffy consistency. Additionally, have a whisk handy for combining the dry ingredients. A rubber spatula will help in pouring and leveling the cake batter evenly in the tin. You’ll also need a sharp knife for cutting the sponge into perfect squares after it cools. Lastly, a microwave-safe bowl will be crucial for melting your dark chocolate mixture smoothly.
Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups self-raising flour
- 1 cup caster sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups desiccated coconut
- 200g dark chocolate, chopped
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Tin
Start by prepping your baking tin. Grease the sides and bottom, then line it with parchment paper. This ensures that your cake won’t stick after baking, allowing for a smooth removal process. Proper preparation is key for achieving the perfect lamingtons!
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the self-raising flour and caster sugar. This step aerates the flour, making your sponge light and fluffy. Make sure to mix thoroughly to avoid any clumps, setting a strong foundation for your cake.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients and Beat Until Fluffy
Add the eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the mixture until it becomes smooth and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes. You want to incorporate enough air into the batter to ensure a good rise during baking.
Step 4: Bake the Sponge Cake
Pour your batter into the prepared baking tin, spreading it out evenly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, let it cool in the tin for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Cut the Sponge into Squares
Once the cake has cooled completely, carefully use a sharp knife to cut it into 16 even squares. Try to make them uniform in size for an appealing presentation. Setting up a neat station to roll the squares will make the next step much easier.
Step 6: Prepare the Chocolate Coating
To create the rich chocolate coating, melt the dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl along with the vegetable oil and water. Heat it in short bursts, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth and glossy. This mixture should be slightly warm to ensure easy dipping.
Step 7: Dip and Coat the Squares
Now for the fun part—dipping! Take each square of sponge and dip it into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s well coated. Follow this by rolling it in the desiccated coconut until fully covered. Place them on a wire rack and allow them to set. Repeat this with each piece until all lamingtons are coated.
Variations
- Protein: Consider adding shredded coconut to the sponge mixture for a more intense coconut flavor.
- Vegetables: Dipping them in caramel before rolling in coconut can add a sweet crunch!
- Spices: Adding a pinch of cinnamon to the batter can enhance the flavor profile further.
Cooking Notes
- Make sure your eggs are at room temperature for better mixing.
- If you want a softer sponge, reduce the baking time by a few minutes.
- Allow the chocolate to cool slightly before dipping to avoid it melting the sponge.
- Store leftover lamingtons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a classic afternoon treat.
- Serve alongside fresh berries for a refreshing contrast.
Tips
- For more flavor, consider infusing the milk with a vanilla pod while warming it slightly.
- Using a fork to dip the squares can help prevent messy fingers while coating them in chocolate and coconut.
- Try rolling the lamingtons in different coatings like crushed nuts or sprinkles for a fun twist!
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 200 kcal per piece
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 50mg
FAQs
Can I freeze lamingtons?
Yes, lamingtons freeze well. Just ensure they are wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in an airtight container.
Can I use gluten-free flour?
Absolutely! Just substitute the self-raising flour with a gluten-free equivalent and add a teaspoon of baking powder.
How long do lamingtons last?
When stored in an airtight container, they can last up to three days at room temperature.
Can I use different types of chocolate?
Yes, feel free to experiment with milk, dark, or even white chocolate for the coating.
Conclusion
Classic Lamingtons are versatile, delightful, and incredibly easy to make. They provide a fantastic opportunity to customize and impress your loved ones with your baking skills. Whether you enjoy them for afternoon tea, a special occasion, or just indulging on your own, these lamingtons are sure to bring warmth and comfort. So gather your ingredients, start baking, and don’t forget to experiment with flavors and toppings. We’d love to hear your thoughts, tips, and variations in the comments below!
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Classic Lamingtons
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
Description
Classic Lamingtons are not just any dessert; they are a nostalgic journey back to sunny afternoons filled with laughter and the sweet aroma of baked treats.
Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups self-raising flour
- 1 cup caster sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups desiccated coconut
- 200g dark chocolate, chopped
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Start by prepping your baking tin. Grease the sides and bottom, then line it with parchment paper. This ensures that your cake won’t stick after baking, allowing for a smooth removal process. Proper preparation is key for achieving the perfect lamingtons!
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the self-raising flour and caster sugar. This step aerates the flour, making your sponge light and fluffy. Make sure to mix thoroughly to avoid any clumps, setting a strong foundation for your cake.
- Add the eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the mixture until it becomes smooth and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes. You want to incorporate enough air into the batter to ensure a good rise during baking.
- Pour your batter into the prepared baking tin, spreading it out evenly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, let it cool in the tin for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once the cake has cooled completely, carefully use a sharp knife to cut it into 16 even squares. Try to make them uniform in size for an appealing presentation. Setting up a neat station to roll the squares will make the next step much easier.
- To create the rich chocolate coating, melt the dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl along with the vegetable oil and water. Heat it in short bursts, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth and glossy. This mixture should be slightly warm to ensure easy dipping.
- Now for the fun part—dipping! Take each square of sponge and dip it into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s well coated. Follow this by rolling it in the desiccated coconut until fully covered. Place them on a wire rack and allow them to set. Repeat this with each piece until all lamingtons are coated.
Notes
Store leftover lamingtons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 200 kcal per piece
- Sodium: 50 mg
- Protein: 3 g
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