Raspberry Lamingtons

These delightful Raspberry Lamingtons are the perfect treat for any occasion. Their soft sponge cake base is enveloped in a rich raspberry glaze and generously coated with coconut, creating a lovely texture and flavor. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying an afternoon tea, or simply satisfying your sweet cravings, these lamingtons stand out with their vibrant color and delicious taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – This recipe features straightforward steps, making it accessible for bakers of all levels.
• Deliciously Unique – The combination of raspberry and coconut offers a refreshing twist on traditional desserts.
• Perfect for Sharing – With 18 servings, these lamingtons are great for gatherings or as sweet gifts for friends and family.
• Versatile Serving Options – Enjoy them plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or dressed up for special occasions.
• Make Ahead Friendly – These treats can be prepared in advance and stored, making them ideal for busy schedules.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin whipping up these Raspberry Lamingtons, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline the baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Baking tray
• Cooling rack
• Saucepan
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer – Saves time and effort when beating eggs and mixing batter to achieve a fluffy texture.
• Cooling rack – Allows air circulation around the lamingtons after baking to prevent sogginess.

Ingredients

These small, 2-inch cubes of soft sponge cake squares are drenched in a luscious raspberry glaze and coated in coconut.

For the Cake Base

• 5 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 6 tablespoons butter
• 2 cups granulated sugar (400 grams)
• 2 cups cake flour (220 grams)
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

For the Raspberry Glaze

• 2 teaspoons unflavored vegan gelatin powder
• 1 cup granulated sugar (200 grams)
• 1¼ cup water (divided)
• 10 ounces frozen raspberries (thawed)
• 2 cups powdered sugar (250 grams)
• ¼ teaspoon red food coloring (optional)

For Coating

• 2 cups desiccated coconut

How to Make Raspberry Lamingtons

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking tray to ensure easy removal of the lamingtons after baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
2. In another bowl, sift together cake flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture while beating until smooth.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking tray evenly. Bake for about 30-40 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 4: Cool the Cake

Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool in the tray for a few minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack.

Step 5: Make the Raspberry Glaze

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine one cup of water with thawed raspberries and granulated sugar.
2. Stir until dissolved; then bring it to a simmer.
3. Mix in vegan gelatin powder until fully dissolved. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.

Step 6: Assemble Your Lamingtons

1. Cut cooled cake into squares.
2. Dip each square into the raspberry glaze until fully coated.
3. Roll the glazed squares in desiccated coconut until well covered.

Step 7: Serve or Store

Let your finished lamingtons set on a cooling rack before serving or storing them in an airtight container.

Enjoy your deliciously irresistible Raspberry Lamingtons!

How to Serve Raspberry Lamingtons

Raspberry Lamingtons are delightful treats that can be served in various ways to enhance their appeal. Whether it’s a casual gathering or a special occasion, these little cakes can be the star of the dessert table.

Enjoy with Fresh Berries

• Fresh raspberries or strawberries can complement the sweetness of the lamingtons. Their natural tartness balances the flavors perfectly.

Pair with Whipped Coconut Cream

• A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a rich and creamy texture. It’s a dairy-free alternative that enhances the overall experience.

Serve with Hot Tea or Coffee

• Enjoying raspberry lamingtons with a hot beverage like tea or coffee makes for a cozy treat. The warmth of the drink contrasts nicely with the chilled cake.

Create a Dessert Platter

• Arrange raspberry lamingtons alongside other sweet treats on a platter. This allows guests to sample various desserts while highlighting your lamingtons.

Garnish with Mint Leaves

• Adding fresh mint leaves as a garnish brings a pop of color and freshness to your presentation. It also adds an aromatic touch that elevates the dessert.

How to Perfect Raspberry Lamingtons

Perfecting your Raspberry Lamingtons requires attention to detail and some helpful tips. Follow these suggestions for the best results.

• Use room temperature ingredients – Bringing eggs and milk to room temperature helps create a smoother batter and ensures even baking.
• Sift dry ingredients – Sifting flour, baking powder, and salt helps aerate them, leading to a lighter sponge cake.
• Avoid overmixing – Mixing the batter just until combined prevents tough cakes. Overmixing can lead to dense lamingtons.
• Cool completely before glazing – Allowing the sponge cake to cool ensures that your raspberry glaze adheres better without melting into the cake.
• Use quality raspberries – Fresh or high-quality frozen raspberries will provide the best flavor for your glaze, enhancing the overall taste of your lamingtons.

Best Side Dishes for Raspberry Lamingtons

Raspberry Lamingtons pair well with various side dishes that can complement their sweet and tangy flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a delicious contrast, making each bite even more indulgent.
2. Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit salad adds brightness and balances out the richness of the lamingtons.
3. Chocolate Mousse – The creamy texture of chocolate mousse pairs wonderfully with the light sponge cake, offering an elegant dessert experience.
4. Chia Seed Pudding – This healthy option provides fiber and complements the sweetness of raspberry lamingtons while adding texture.
5. Almond Biscotti – Crunchy almond biscotti offers a delightful crunch that contrasts nicely with soft lamingtons, perfect for dipping in coffee.
6. Coconut Yogurt Parfait – Layered coconut yogurt with granola and fresh fruit is a healthy side dish that harmonizes flavors beautifully.
7. Lemon Sorbet – The tartness of lemon sorbet refreshes your palate between bites of sweetness from the lamingtons.
8. Tea Cookies – Light tea cookies provide an additional sweet treat without overwhelming flavors, making them ideal companions for your raspberry lamingtons.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Raspberry Lamingtons turn out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Skipping the egg preparation: Make sure to beat the eggs well; this helps create a light and airy sponge.
• Using cold ingredients: Always bring your milk and eggs to room temperature before mixing. This ensures better blending and texture.
• Not measuring accurately: Use a kitchen scale for ingredients like flour and sugar for precise measurements. This prevents dense or dry lamingtons.
• Overbaking the cake: Keep an eye on the baking time; overbaking can lead to a dry sponge. Check for doneness with a toothpick.
• Ignoring cooling time: Allow the cake to cool completely before glazing; this prevents the glaze from melting off.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Raspberry Lamingtons in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Raspberry Lamingtons

• Wrap each lamington individually in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Raspberry Lamingtons

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Wrap lamingtons in foil and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place one lamington on a microwave-safe plate, heat in short bursts of 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Raspberry Lamingtons?

Raspberry Lamingtons are small cubes of sponge cake that are coated in raspberry glaze and rolled in coconut, providing a delightful combination of flavors and textures.

Can I use fresh raspberries instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh raspberries if available, but ensure they are ripe and sweet for the best flavor.

How do I make Raspberry Lamingtons vegan?

Replace the eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce as binding agents, and use plant-based milk along with vegan gelatin alternatives.

What can I serve with Raspberry Lamingtons?

These lamingtons pair wonderfully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.

Can I customize my Raspberry Lamingtons?

Absolutely! You can add different flavors like lemon zest or chocolate for variation, or try other fruits like strawberries or blueberries.

Final Thoughts

Raspberry Lamingtons are not only delicious but also visually appealing. Their soft sponge cake combined with tangy raspberry glaze makes them a delightful treat. Feel free to customize them by adding different flavors or toppings according to your taste preferences. Enjoy making these delightful desserts!