Raspberry Lamingtons

Short Description

Raspberry Lamingtons offer a delightful twist on the traditional Australian treat. These bite-sized sponge cakes are coated in a luscious raspberry sauce instead of the usual chocolate, then generously rolled in shredded coconut for a vibrant and flavorful dessert. The combination of tart raspberry, soft sponge, and delicate coconut creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making them an irresistible sweet treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fruity Twist on a Classic – The traditional lamington gets a refreshing update with the use of raspberry coating, adding a tangy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the soft sponge.
• Visually Stunning – The bright pink hue of the raspberry sauce makes these lamingtons stand out on any dessert table.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether for afternoon tea, celebrations, or just a sweet craving, these lamingtons fit the bill.
• Customizable – They can be filled with jam or cream for extra indulgence, or made gluten-free with a suitable sponge.
• Easy to Make Ahead – These treats store well, making them great for preparing in advance.

Ingredients

• Sponge cake
• Raspberry puree
• Sugar
• Lemon juice
• Gelatin (or agar-agar for a vegetarian version)
• Desiccated coconut
• Butter
• Eggs
• Flour
• Baking powder
• Milk
• Vanilla extract

Directions

1. Prepare the Sponge Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and line a square cake tin with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Sift together the flour and baking powder. Gradually fold into the butter mixture, alternating with milk and vanilla extract, until a smooth batter forms.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared tin and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
5. Allow the sponge to cool completely before cutting it into equal-sized squares.

Making the Raspberry Coating

6. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine raspberry puree, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves.
7. Add gelatin (or agar-agar) and mix well until fully dissolved. Let the mixture cool slightly but remain runny.

Assembling the Lamingtons

8. Place desiccated coconut in a shallow dish.
9. Using a fork or tongs, dip each sponge square into the raspberry coating, ensuring an even coverage.
10. Roll the coated sponge in coconut, pressing gently to adhere.
11. Place on a wire rack to set for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Variations

• Chocolate Raspberry Lamingtons – Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the finished lamingtons for an extra layer of richness.
• Filled Lamingtons – Slice the sponge squares in half and spread raspberry jam or whipped cream inside before coating.
• Gluten-Free Version – Use a gluten-free sponge recipe for a celiac-friendly treat.
• Vegan Option – Swap out eggs and dairy for plant-based alternatives and use agar-agar instead of gelatin.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Cooling Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 12 lamingtons

Storage/Reheating

• Store raspberry lamingtons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.
• Freeze in a single layer for up to 2 months, then thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

How do I prevent the sponge from crumbling while coating?

Ensure the sponge is completely cool before cutting and coating. Chilling it for 30 minutes before dipping helps maintain its structure.

Can I use store-bought sponge cake?

Yes, store-bought sponge works well if you’re short on time, but homemade sponge has a superior texture and flavor.

Is there a way to make these less sweet?

Reduce the sugar in the raspberry coating and opt for unsweetened desiccated coconut to balance the sweetness.

Can I use frozen raspberries for the coating?

Absolutely! Just thaw and blend them into a puree before cooking with sugar and lemon juice.

How do I achieve a vibrant pink color?

Fresh raspberries naturally provide color, but a drop of natural food coloring can enhance the hue if needed.

What’s the best coconut to use?

Fine desiccated coconut works best for even coverage, but shredded coconut can add more texture if preferred.

Can I make these in advance for an event?

Yes! Make them a day ahead and store in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

How do I make them extra moist?

Brushing the sponge with a light sugar syrup before coating can help retain moisture.

Are these suitable for kids?

Yes, kids love their bright color and sweet taste, but consider reducing sugar for younger children.

Can I add a different flavor to the coating?

You can mix in other fruit purees like strawberry or passionfruit for a fun variation.

Conclusion

Raspberry Lamingtons are a delightful take on a beloved classic, bringing a fruity freshness to the traditional chocolate-coated treat. With their vibrant color, tangy raspberry flavor, and coconut crunch, they are sure to impress at any gathering. Whether enjoyed as a simple afternoon snack or a show-stopping dessert, these lamingtons are worth the effort. Try them today and indulge in a sweet, tart, and utterly delicious treat!

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