Few desserts can rival the charm of chocolate lamingtons—those soft, fluffy squares of cake coated in a rich chocolate glaze and finished with a generous dusting of coconut. While the traditional version is already a delight, our enhanced recipe takes it to the next level by infusing the sponge with deep chocolate flavors and offering a few creative variations to elevate your baking game. Whether you’re making these for a celebration or just indulging in a chocolate craving, this guide will ensure your lamingtons turn out perfect every time.
A Brief History of Lamingtons
The origin of lamingtons dates back to Australia, where they were reportedly created by accident when a sponge cake was dropped into melted chocolate. Instead of discarding it, a clever cook rolled it in coconut to prevent sticky fingers—and thus, the lamington was born. Over time, variations of the classic treat emerged, with some adding jam, cream, or in our case, a double dose of chocolate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chocolate Sponge Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Chocolate Coating:
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Coating:
- 4 cups desiccated coconut
Optional Fillings:
- 1/2 cup chocolate ganache
- 1/2 cup raspberry jam
- 1/2 cup whipped cream
How to Make Chocolate Lamingtons
Step 1: Bake the Chocolate Sponge
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- Prepare the dry mix: In a large bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, salt, and cocoa powder.
- Whisk the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Combine ingredients: Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk and melted butter.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and cut: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing it into squares. For easier handling, chill the squares in the fridge for 20 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Coating
- Sift the dry ingredients: In a bowl, combine powdered sugar and cocoa powder.
- Melt and mix: Stir in melted butter, vanilla, and warm milk, whisking until smooth.
- Keep warm: To prevent thickening, keep the chocolate mixture warm while dipping the cakes.
Step 3: Coat and Assemble the Lamingtons
- Dip each piece: Using a fork, lower each sponge square into the chocolate coating and let the excess drip off.
- Roll in coconut: Immediately roll each coated cake in desiccated coconut.
- Let them set: Place the lamingtons on a wire rack and allow them to firm up for at least 30 minutes.
Optional Fillings:
If you’d like to add a filling, slice each lamington in half and spread chocolate ganache, jam, or whipped cream before sandwiching the halves back together.
Creative Variations
1. Triple Chocolate Lamingtons
Enhance the chocolate experience by adding chocolate chips to the sponge batter and drizzling melted dark chocolate over the finished lamingtons.
2. Caramel Infused Lamingtons
Drizzle caramel sauce over the coated lamingtons or add a caramel filling for a delicious contrast to the rich chocolate.
3. Nutty Lamingtons
Add chopped toasted almonds, hazelnuts, or pecans to the coconut for a crunchy twist.
4. Spiced Chocolate Lamingtons
Incorporate cinnamon, chili powder, or a pinch of cayenne into the chocolate coating for a bold flavor profile.
Perfect Pairings for Chocolate Lamingtons
Pair your chocolate lamingtons with one of these beverages:
- Espresso or black coffee – The slight bitterness balances the sweetness of the dessert.
- Hot chocolate – For a double dose of chocolatey goodness.
- Cold milk – A classic pairing that complements the cake’s richness.
- Red wine – A full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon enhances the depth of chocolate flavors.
How to Store and Serve Chocolate Lamingtons
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: Keeps fresh for up to a week when stored properly.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months, thawing at room temperature before serving.
Conclusion
Chocolate lamingtons are the perfect treat for any occasion, from afternoon tea to holiday celebrations. Their combination of soft sponge, rich chocolate, and coconut makes them a timeless favorite. With these tips and variations, you can personalize your lamingtons and create a dessert that truly stands out. Whether you stick to the traditional version or experiment with new flavors, these chocolate lamingtons are sure to impress!
