Lamingtons Recipe - Australian Delight

Lamingtons

Lamingtons Recipe - Australian Delight
Region / culture: Australia | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Lamingtons
Lamingtons

Lamingtons are a classic Australian dessert that consists of squares of sponge cake coated in chocolate icing and desiccated coconut. These delicious treats are perfect for afternoon tea or as a sweet snack.

History

The exact origins of the Lamington are a bit murky, but it is believed to have been named after Lord Lamington, who served as the Governor of Queensland from 1896 to 1901. The recipe is said to have been created by his chef, who needed to come up with a quick and easy dessert to serve unexpected guests.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. Beat the eggs until they become thick and creamy.
  2. Gradually add the sugar.
  3. Continue beating until the sugar is completely dissolved.
  4. Fold in the sifted self-rising flour and cornflour, along with the combined water and butter.
  5. Pour the mixture into prepared lamington tins measuring 18 cm x 28 cm (7in x 11in).
  6. Bake in a moderate oven for approximately 30 minutes.
  7. Allow the cake to stand in the pan for 5 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack.

Variations

  • Try adding a layer of jam or cream in the middle of the sponge cake for a different twist.
  • Use different flavored icing, such as strawberry or lemon, for a unique flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to beat the eggs until they are thick and creamy to ensure a light and fluffy sponge cake.

- Sift the flour and cornflour to prevent any lumps in the batter.

- Allow the cake to cool completely before cutting into squares and coating with icing and coconut.

Serving Suggestions

Lamingtons are best served with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.

Cooking Techniques

Beating the eggs until thick and creamy is crucial for a light and fluffy sponge cake.

- Folding in the flour gently to avoid deflating the batter.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use all-purpose flour instead of self-rising flour, just make sure to add baking powder.

- Margarine can be used instead of butter.

Make Ahead Tips

Lamingtons can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the Lamingtons on a platter and sprinkle with extra coconut for a decorative touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Lamingtons pair well with a glass of milk or a fruity dessert wine.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Lamingtons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to 1 month. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Lamingtons contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Lamingtons contains approximately 25g of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Lamingtons contains approximately 5g of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Lamingtons contains approximately 3g of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Lamingtons are not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

Lamingtons contain eggs, wheat, and dairy.

Summary

Lamingtons are a sweet treat that are relatively low in calories and fats, but high in carbohydrates.

Summary

Lamingtons are a classic Australian dessert that are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With a light and fluffy sponge cake coated in chocolate icing and coconut, these sweet treats are sure to be a hit with family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Lamingtons. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl learning the ropes in the kitchen from my own grandmother. She was a formidable cook with a wealth of knowledge and experience, and I was always eager to soak up as much as I could from her.

One day, she handed me a tattered old recipe book that she claimed had been passed down through generations of our family. As I flipped through the pages, my eyes landed on a recipe for Lamingtons. I had never heard of them before, but the description sounded divine – a sponge cake dipped in chocolate and coated in coconut. It sounded like a treat fit for royalty.

Excited to try something new, I set out to make the Lamingtons. The recipe was simple enough, but it was the little tips and tricks that my grandmother had shared with me along the way that really made the difference. She taught me the importance of sifting the flour and taking care not to overmix the batter, ensuring that the sponge cake would be light and fluffy.

As the cake baked in the oven, the sweet scent of vanilla and cocoa filled the kitchen, and I could hardly contain my excitement. When the cake was finally done, I let it cool before cutting it into squares and dipping each one into the rich chocolate icing. The icing dripped down the sides of the cake, creating a mouthwatering coating that promised a burst of sweetness with every bite.

Finally, it was time to roll the chocolate-coated squares in shredded coconut. The soft, fluffy texture of the coconut contrasted perfectly with the rich chocolate and delicate sponge cake, creating a symphony of flavors and textures that danced on my taste buds. I knew then that this recipe would become a favorite in my own kitchen for years to come.

Over the years, I have made Lamingtons countless times, each batch as delicious as the last. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of this delectable treat that I learned from my own grandmother. Every time I make them, I am reminded of the joy and love that she poured into teaching me how to cook, and I am grateful for the memories that we created together in the kitchen.

As I sit here now, with a plate of freshly baked Lamingtons in front of me, I can't help but smile at the thought of all the people who have enjoyed this recipe over the years. From my own children to friends and neighbors, the joy that these simple little cakes have brought to others is a testament to the power of a good recipe and the love that goes into making it.

So, if you ever find yourself in need of a sweet treat to share with loved ones, I urge you to give this recipe for Lamingtons a try. Let the chocolate melt in your mouth, the coconut tickle your taste buds, and the memories of generations past fill your heart with warmth. And who knows, maybe one day you'll pass this recipe down to your own grandchildren, just as I did with you.

Categories

| Australian Desserts | Australian Recipes | Egg Recipes | Self-rising Flour Recipes |

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