These lamingtons are a proper Australian classic, soft sponge dipped in chocolate icing and rolled in coconut. They take a little patience, but none of it is hard, and the result is well worth it.

This makes 24, so it is a good one for a morning tea, a bake sale or just to have in the tin. The trick is letting the sponge chill before you cut and dip it, so do plan for that.

Why You’ll Love It

These are worth the effort. They’re a true Australian classic of soft sponge, chocolate and coconut, they make 24 for a crowd, you need no fancy equipment, and they freeze well for later.

Handy Tips

Let the cake cool completely in the fridge, ideally overnight, before you cut it. A firm cake dips much more neatly. Use a fork to dip each piece so the excess icing drips off. Set the dipped pieces on a rack over a tray to catch the drips. If the icing thickens as you go, add a splash of boiling water to loosen it.

Make It Your Way

Short on time? A firm store-bought sponge works, just make sure it is sturdy enough to dip without falling apart. Add a layer of jam or cream through the middle for a fancier version. Chill the cake before dipping no matter what, it makes the whole job easier.

What To Serve With It

Lovely with a cup of tea or coffee. They are a morning tea staple just as they are.

How to Store It

Keep lamingtons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or in the fridge for up to a week. Bring them to room temperature before serving. They also freeze well for up to 2 months.

Don’t Forget to Share

Tried my Lamingtons recipe? I would love to see how you used it. Snap a pic and tag me on Instagram @steph_cooks_stuff, I love seeing your creations.

Lamingtons
Steph de Sousa

Lamingtons

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5 from 1 vote
Lamingtons are a classic Australian treat made with sponge cake dipped in chocolate and rolled in coconut. Delicious, iconic, and perfect for afternoon tea.
prep time Prep Time 10 minutes
setting time Setting Time
 30 minutes
total time Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 24
Course: Recipes
Cuisine: Australian
Calories: 279

Ingredients
 

  • 125 g soft butter
  • 1 cup sugar
  • A splash of vanilla
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 3/4 cup self-raising flour
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 cups desiccated coconut
For the Chocolate Icing:
  • 3 1/2 cups icing sugar
  • 1/4 cup cocoa powder
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1/2 cup boiling water

Method
 

  1. In a bowl, cream together butter, sugar, and vanilla with electric beaters for 1 minute.
  2. Add eggs and beat for another minute until fluffy.
  3. Stir in the flour and milk until combined.
  4. Pour the batter into a lined slice tray and bake at 180°C for 30 minutes.
  5. Let the cake cool completely in the fridge, ideally overnight.
  6. Once chilled, cut into your desired size pieces.
  7. For the Icing:
  8. Whisk together icing sugar, cocoa, butter, and boiling water.
  9. Assembly:
  10. Dip each cake piece in chocolate icing using a fork, letting excess drip off.
  11. Roll in desiccated coconut and set on a rack over a tray to catch drips.
  12. And voilà! Your delicious Lamingtons are ready!

Nutrition

Calories: 279kcalCarbohydrates: 46gProtein: 3gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.4gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 34mgSodium: 51mgPotassium: 79mgFiber: 2gSugar: 38gVitamin A: 183IUVitamin C: 0.1mgCalcium: 16mgIron: 1mg

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FAQs

Can I use store-bought sponge cake?

Yes. If you are short on time, a firm store-bought sponge works. Just make sure it is sturdy enough to dip and roll without falling apart, and chill it first.

How do I store them and how long do they last?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or in the fridge for up to a week. Bring them to room temperature before serving.

Can I freeze lamingtons?

Yes. They freeze well for up to 2 months. Freeze them in a single layer first, then pack them together once solid.