I. What is Lamingtons?
Lamingtons are a popular Australian dessert that consists of squares of sponge cake coated in a layer of chocolate icing and desiccated coconut. These sweet treats are often enjoyed at parties, picnics, and other social gatherings.
II. History of Lamingtons
The exact origins of Lamingtons are somewhat disputed, but it is widely believed that they were named after Lord Lamington, who served as the Governor of Queensland from 1896 to 1901. According to popular legend, the dessert was created when Lord Lamington’s chef accidentally dropped a piece of sponge cake into a bowl of chocolate icing and then coated it in coconut to cover up the mess. Lord Lamington reportedly enjoyed the dessert so much that it became a regular feature on the menu at Government House.
III. Ingredients used in Lamingtons
The key ingredients in Lamingtons include sponge cake, chocolate icing, and desiccated coconut. The sponge cake is typically made with flour, sugar, eggs, and butter, while the chocolate icing is made from cocoa powder, icing sugar, butter, and milk. The desiccated coconut is used to coat the outside of the Lamingtons and adds a delicious texture and flavor to the dessert.
IV. How to make Lamingtons
To make Lamingtons, start by baking a sponge cake and allowing it to cool completely. Once the cake has cooled, cut it into squares of equal size. Next, prepare the chocolate icing by combining cocoa powder, icing sugar, butter, and milk in a saucepan over low heat. Stir the mixture until it is smooth and glossy.
Dip each square of sponge cake into the chocolate icing, making sure to coat all sides evenly. Then, roll the coated cake in desiccated coconut until it is fully covered. Place the Lamingtons on a wire rack to set and allow the icing to harden before serving.
V. Variations of Lamingtons
While traditional Lamingtons are made with sponge cake, chocolate icing, and desiccated coconut, there are many variations of this classic dessert. Some popular variations include adding a layer of jam or cream between the sponge cake layers, using different flavors of icing such as strawberry or lemon, or incorporating nuts or dried fruit into the coconut coating. These variations allow for endless creativity and customization when making Lamingtons.
VI. Serving suggestions for Lamingtons
Lamingtons are best enjoyed fresh, so be sure to serve them soon after they have been made. They can be served as a sweet treat with a cup of tea or coffee, or as a dessert at a party or gathering. Lamingtons can also be served with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. However you choose to enjoy them, Lamingtons are sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them.