Why Raspberry Lamingtons Are a Must-Try Dessert

If you have a sweet spot for desserts that combine rich, fluffy sponge cake, the delightful tartness of raspberry, and the tropical sweetness of coconut, Raspberry Lamingtons are the perfect treat you’ve been missing. This classic Australian-style dessert gets a vibrant twist with fresh raspberry jam layered inside, enveloped in luscious chocolate and rolled in shredded coconut. Whether you’re after a show-stopping centerpiece for your next gathering or a charming afternoon snack with tea, Raspberry Lamingtons deliver a magnificent blend of textures and flavors that will surely turn heads and satisfy cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Harmony: The tart raspberry jam balances beautifully with the sweet chocolate coating creating a perfect flavor bite every time.
• Texture Contrast: Soft sponge, gooey jam, and crunchy coconut flakes combine for an irresistible sensory experience.
• Simple Yet Elegant: Despite their fancy appearance, Raspberry Lamingtons are surprisingly straightforward to make at home.
• Customizable Delight: Easily adaptable with different jams or coatings to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From casual teas to festive celebrations, they add a delightful touch of charm and sweetness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on simple, staple ingredients that work together to create a sponge that’s light yet sturdy, a luscious raspberry filling, and a coconut-covered finish that’s pure indulgence. Each ingredient plays a key role in the final flavor and texture.

• All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure for the soft, fluffy sponge base.
• Baking Powder: Gives your cake that perfect rise and airiness.
• Eggs: Add moisture, richness, and help to bind the ingredients together.
• Caster Sugar: Sweetens the sponge just right without weighing it down.
• Butter: Adds decadence and tenderness to the cake.
• Milk: Keeps the sponge moist and tender throughout.
• Raspberry Jam: The star ingredient that brings tart brightness inside the lamingtons.
• Dark Chocolate: Melted for the classic chocolate coating that seals in flavor.
• Desiccated Coconut: Rolls the outside giving that iconic lamington texture and a subtle nutty taste.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the depth of flavor throughout the sponge and chocolate layer.

Variations for Raspberry Lamingtons

One of the joys of Raspberry Lamingtons is how easy it is to tweak them to fit different diets, seasonal ingredients, or personal flavor favorites. Feel free to experiment and make the recipe your own.

• Berry Mix: Swap out raspberry jam for mixed berry or strawberry preserves for a different fruity zing.
• White Chocolate: Use white chocolate instead of dark for a sweeter, creamier coating alternative.
• Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter and milk substitutes, plus aquafaba or flax eggs in place of real eggs.
• Matcha Twist: Add a teaspoon of matcha powder to the chocolate coating for an earthy and colorful spin.

How to Make Raspberry Lamingtons

Step 1: Prepare the Sponge Cake

Begin by preheating your oven and greasing a square cake tin. In a bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until pale and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract. Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk to create a smooth batter. Pour this into your tin and bake until a skewer comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely before moving on.

Step 2: Slice and Fill the Cake

Once the sponge is cooled, carefully cut it into evenly sized squares. Take each square and spread a generous layer of raspberry jam on one side, then sandwich two squares together to create a jam-filled center that bursts with flavor.

Step 3: Make the Chocolate Coating

Gently melt dark chocolate with a bit of butter over a double boiler or in short bursts in the microwave. Stir until smooth and glossy, ensuring it’s thin enough to coat but thick enough to stick to the cake.

Step 4: Dip and Roll in Coconut

Using forks, dip each jam-filled sponge cube into the chocolate, making sure it’s fully covered. Immediately roll the coated Lamington in desiccated coconut. Place them on a wire rack to set completely.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Let your Raspberry Lamingtons sit for a bit so the chocolate can firm up, then serve them on a pretty plate alongside tea or coffee for a truly delightful treat.

Pro Tips for Making Raspberry Lamingtons

• Use Fresh Jam: Choose high-quality or homemade raspberry jam for the best flavor impact.
• Cool Completely: Ensure the sponge has fully cooled before adding jam or dipping to prevent melting or collapsing.
• Thin Chocolate Coating: Keep the chocolate smooth and slightly runny for easier dipping and even coverage.
• Coconut Coverage: Use fresh desiccated coconut for a light, fluffy texture that sticks well to chocolate.
• Storage Prep: Store lamingtons covered to keep them moist but allow slight airflow to keep the coconut from becoming soggy.

How to Serve Raspberry Lamingtons

Garnishes

Sprinkle extra shredded coconut on top or add a fresh raspberry on each lamington for a pretty, inviting finish.

Side Dishes

Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or alongside a fresh fruit salad for a balanced dessert spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange Raspberry Lamingtons on a tiered cake stand for a party, dust lightly with icing sugar for a frosty look, or wrap individually in parchment paper and tie with a ribbon for delightful gifts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store Raspberry Lamingtons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to keep them fresh.

Freezing

Wrap each Lamington tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-friendly container to freeze for up to one month; thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

For best results, enjoy them cold or let them sit at room temperature—the chocolate and coconut taste better this way. Avoid microwaving, as it may affect the texture negatively.

FAQs

What makes Raspberry Lamingtons different from traditional lamingtons?

Unlike traditional lamingtons that use plain sponge dipped in chocolate and coconut, Raspberry Lamingtons incorporate a layer of raspberry jam inside, adding a fresh tartness that elevates the flavor.

Can I use frozen raspberries to make the jam?

Yes, frozen raspberries work well for homemade jam and provide the same vibrant flavor as fresh ones when cooked properly.

Is it possible to make Raspberry Lamingtons gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix, making sure it includes baking powder for proper rise.

How long do Raspberry Lamingtons last?

Stored properly, they typically stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator, making them an excellent make-ahead dessert option.

Can I use jam other than raspberry?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with strawberry, blackberry, or apricot jams to find your personal favorite twist.

Final Thoughts

Raspberry Lamingtons bring together the best of classic dessert elements in a fun and flavorful way that’s sure to impress friends and satisfy your sweet cravings. With their delightful balance of tart, sweet, soft, and crunchy textures, they make an enchanting addition to any dessert table. Give this recipe a try—you’ll quickly find why Raspberry Lamingtons hold a special place in so many hearts (and bellies!).

Related Posts

• How to Bake the Perfect Strawberry Lemon Cake
• How to Make Irresistible Tiramisu Cupcakes
• Easy Strawberry Shortcake Trifles to Delight

Print