Lamington Bliss
Lamingtons, a classic Australian treat, have graced tables and tea parties for over a century. Said to be named after Lord Lamington, a former Governor of Queensland, these delightful sponge cakes are dipped in chocolate and rolled in desiccated coconut. They offer a wondrous combination of textures and flavors, with a moist interior and a slightly crunchy exterior. Let's dive into the rich history, explore the traditional and modern twists, and enjoy the bliss that is a Lamington.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour - 2 cups
- Baking powder - 2 teaspoons
- Salt - 1/4 teaspoon
- Unsalted butter - 1/2 cup
- Granulated sugar - 1 cup
- Eggs - 2 large
- Vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon
- Milk - 3/4 cup
- Cocoa powder - 1/2 cup
- Boiling water - 1 cup
- Powdered sugar - 3 cups
- Desiccated coconut - 2 cups
Preparation
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper. This ensures that your cake comes out smoothly after baking. A well-prepared pan is the key to perfectly shaped Lamingtons.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting not only combines these ingredients but also aerates the flour leading to a lighter cake structure.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a separate large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This can take about 3-5 minutes using an electric mixer. Proper creaming is crucial as it incorporates air, helping the sponge cake to rise perfectly.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. The mixture might look curdled but don’t worry, it will come together once the dry ingredients are added.
Step 5: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients
Alternately add the flour mixture and milk to the creamed mixture, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined; avoid over-mixing to prevent a tough texture.
Cooking Process
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Utilize a cooking timer to keep track of the time accurately, ensuring your cake doesn't overbake and stays moist.
Step 7: Prepare Chocolate Icing
In a medium bowl, mix the cocoa powder and boiling water until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, stirring continuously until you achieve a smooth, pourable consistency.
Step 8: Cut and Dip
Once the cake has cooled, cut it into equal squares. Dip each square into the chocolate icing, ensuring all sides are coated. Use a fork to lift the squares, letting any excess chocolate drip off.
Step 9: Roll in Coconut
Immediately roll each chocolate-coated square into a bowl of desiccated coconut, ensuring an even coating on all sides. Set aside on a wire rack or a tray lined with parchment paper to set.
How to Enjoy
Your Lamingtons are best enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee. They make an excellent addition to any afternoon tea, bringing a touch of Australian charm to your table. For variations, consider filling them with jam or cream for an extra indulgent treat. Serve them at room temperature and watch them disappear in no time!