Irresistible Lamingtons Recipe: Easy, Fluffy & Decadently Sweet

Natalie

The founder of Cookleez

There’s something truly enchanting about biting into a perfectly made lamington—the soft sponge cake, drenched in rich chocolate, then lovingly rolled in shredded coconut. I stumbled upon this classic Aussie treat during a weekend experiment in my kitchen, and it instantly transformed my baking routine. What I love most is how deceptively simple lamingtons are to make, yet how impressively they steal the show at any gathering. Whether you’re craving a nostalgic dessert or looking to impress your friends with homemade sweets, this recipe brings that perfect balance of indulgence and comfort right to your table. Ready to dive into the magic of lamingtons? Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love These Lamingtons?

Simplicity at its best: This recipe uses basic ingredients and straightforward steps, perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers. Fluffy texture: The sponge cake bakes light and airy, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Rich, chocolaty coating: Drenched in smooth chocolate, these lamingtons satisfy any sweet craving. Coconut crunch: Rolled in shredded coconut for a delightful contrast. Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for parties, afternoon tea, or a comforting treat anytime. Versatile fun: Easy to customize with jam or cream fillings for extra indulgence!

Lamingtons Ingredients

For the Sponge Cake

All-purpose flour – Use sifted flour for a light and airy sponge perfect for lamingtons.
Baking powder – Helps the cake rise to that fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Salt – Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and enhance flavor.
Unsalted butter – Softened for creamy batter, making the sponge tender and rich.
Granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake while creating a delicate crumb.
Eggs – Room temperature eggs give structure and moisture to the sponge.
Milk – Adds moisture and keeps the cake soft; whole milk works best.
Vanilla extract – Offers a warm, inviting aroma that complements the chocolate and coconut.

For the Chocolate Coating

Unsweetened cocoa powder – For that deep, rich chocolate flavor coating your lamingtons.
Icing sugar (powdered sugar) – Sweetens and smooths the chocolate glaze perfectly.
Unsalted butter – Adds gloss and richness to the chocolate coating.
Boiling water – Helps melt the butter and cocoa together for a silky finish.

For the Finishing Touch

Desiccated coconut – The signature crunchy coconut coating that makes the lamington truly irresistible—don’t skip it!

This lamingtons ingredient lineup brings together simple pantry staples into an unforgettable treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

How to Make Lamingtons

Preheat & Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9×9-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving a 2-inch overhang on two sides for easy removal after baking.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well blended and airy, ensuring no pockets of leavening remain.
Cream Butter & Sugar: Using an electric mixer, beat softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar on medium speed until mixture is pale, light, and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
Add Eggs & Vanilla: Beat in eggs one at a time, scraping bowl after each addition; stir in vanilla extract until fully incorporated and glossy.
Combine Batter: Alternately fold dry ingredients and milk into the butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour blend; mix gently until batter is smooth.
Bake Sponge: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top; bake in preheated oven at 350°F for 25–30 minutes until golden and springy to the touch.
Cool & Slice: Let the cake cool completely in its pan on a wire rack; use parchment overhang to lift it out, then slice into 16 even squares.

For the Chocolate Coating:

Make Glaze: In a heatproof bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, icing sugar, melted butter, and boiling water until smooth and glossy, with no lumps remaining.
Dip Squares: Using two forks, dunk each cake square into the chocolate glaze, turning with gentle taps to coat all sides evenly before letting excess drip off.
Roll in Coconut: Immediately transfer coated squares into a shallow bowl of desiccated coconut, pressing lightly so flakes adhere well; set each square on a wire rack.
Chill to Set: Place the rack in the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes until the chocolate icing firms before serving.

Optional: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries for extra flair.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Lamingtons Variations

Get ready to unleash your creativity with these delicious twists on the classic lamingtons that will tantalize your taste buds!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to satisfy those with dietary restrictions while still enjoying a delightful treat.
Nutty Delight: Incorporate finely chopped nuts, such as almonds or hazelnuts, into the sponge batter for an extra crunch that enhances texture and flavor.
Jam-Filled: Before coating, slice each square in half and spread a layer of your favorite jam. This adds a sweet surprise with every bite!
Chocolate Variations: Experiment with dark, milk, or even white chocolate for the coating to discover your ideal flavor profile; each offers a unique indulgence.
Coconut Cream Filling: For a luscious twist, whip some coconut cream and pipe it between sponge layers before coating the outside; it’s an unforgettable treat!
Coffee Infusion: Add a teaspoon of instant coffee to the batter for a mocha lamington experience that combines rich chocolate with a soothing coffee touch.
Spiced Flavor: Incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter to add warm undertones that make each lamington feel like a cozy hug.
Zesty Touch: A hint of orange or lemon zest in the batter brings a bright, flavorful zestiness that beautifully contrasts the rich chocolate and coconut.

Dive into these variations for an adventure in lamington-making, and watch as they become your new household favorites!

What to Serve with Lamingtons?

There’s nothing quite like a sweet treat that draws everyone together, so let’s elevate your dessert experience!

Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or tart raspberries provide a refreshing contrast, cutting through the richness of the lamingtons while adding vibrant color and flavor.
Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or your favorite tea enhances the indulgence. The slightly bitter notes balance the sweetness beautifully, creating a harmonious moment.
Whipped Cream: Light, fluffy whipped cream adds a creamy touch. Its airy texture complements the lamingtons, making each bite blissfully delightful.
Ice Cream: Vanilla or coconut ice cream offers a smooth and creamy counterpoint to the spongy cake and chocolate. This duo turns your dessert into a celebratory affair.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling extra chocolate sauce takes indulgence to the next level. It adds a rich element for those who simply can’t get enough chocolate.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad brings brightness to your dessert spread. The mix of seasonal fruits provides a lightness that balances the heaviness of the lamingtons.

These delightful companions will not only enhance the flavors of your lamingtons but create a cozy and inviting atmosphere for memorable gatherings!

Make Ahead Options

These irresistible lamingtons are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their dessert prep! You can bake the sponge cake up to 24 hours in advance, letting it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap to maintain its moisture. The chocolate coating can also be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just give it a quick reheat in the microwave to bring it back to its silky state. When you’re ready to serve, simply slice the sponge into squares, dip them in the warmed glaze, roll them in desiccated coconut, and let them chill briefly until set. This way, you’ll have delicious lamingtons ready to impress your guests without the last-minute rush!

Expert Tips for Perfect Lamingtons

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature for a smooth, even batter that bakes into light, fluffy lamingtons.
Sift Dry Ingredients: Sifting flour and baking powder prevents clumps and creates a tender sponge, crucial for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Gentle Folding Only: Fold in the dry ingredients and milk carefully to keep the batter airy—overmixing can make the sponge dense and tough.
Coat While Warm: Dip the cake squares in chocolate coating while they’re slightly warm to help the glaze adhere better before rolling in coconut.
Don’t Skip Chilling: Refrigerating the lamingtons after coating helps the chocolate set perfectly, giving a neat finish and enhancing flavor.

How to Store and Freeze Lamingtons

Room Temperature: Lamingtons can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, but it’s best to enjoy them fresh.

Fridge: To extend freshness, place lamingtons in the fridge in a sealed container. They will stay delicious for up to 1 week, just bring them back to room temperature before serving.

Freezer: Lamingtons can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight when ready to enjoy.

Reheating: For best results, serve lamingtons as is; however, if you like them a bit warm, gently microwave for 10-15 seconds. Enjoy the delightful combination of chocolate and coconut!

Irresistible Lamingtons Recipe FAQs

How do I know if the sponge cake is baked perfectly?
The sponge should be golden brown and springy to the touch. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs. Avoid opening the oven too early to prevent sinking!

Can I store lamingtons at room temperature?
Absolutely! You can keep lamingtons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Just make sure the container is sealed well to maintain moisture and freshness.

What’s the best way to freeze lamingtons without losing texture?
Freeze lamingtons individually wrapped in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge for even texture and flavor.

My chocolate coating is too thick and clumpy. What should I do?
No worries! Add a bit more boiling water, one tablespoon at a time, whisking gently until you reach a smooth, pourable glaze. Sifting the cocoa and icing sugar before mixing can help prevent lumps from forming.

Are lamingtons safe for pets or suitable for allergy sufferers?
Lamingtons contain ingredients like chocolate, butter, eggs, and coconut, which are not safe for pets. For allergy concerns, you can substitute dairy with plant-based alternatives and try gluten-free flour blends, but note this may affect texture and taste. I recommend testing small batches if altering the recipe.