What Are Lamingtons? Everything You Need to Know About This Aussie Delicacy
Lamingtons, an iconic Australian dessert, are sponge cake squares coated in chocolate icing and rolled in coconut. Named after Lord Lamington, they were invented in Queensland in the late 19th century. With a unique taste, they resemble chocolate-covered Twinkies. Though there's a friendly debate with New Zealand over its origin, the lamington remains a beloved treat in both countries.
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Australia. The land of the weird. Giant animals, people talking with funny accents, Santa Claus on the beach, and… peculiar snacks as well! Today, we're diving into the world of lamingtons, a type of dessert so iconic it even has its own day. But what exactly are these mysterious treats? What do they taste like?
What is a Lamington?
A lamington is a classic Australian dessert, consisting of sponge cake coated in a layer of chocolate icing and rolled in desiccated coconut. The origins of the lamington date back to the late 19th century, and the treat is named after Lord Lamington, the Governor of Queensland from 1896 to 1901. Legend has it that the lamington was invented by accident when a maidservant at the Government House dropped a sponge cake into some melted chocolate. In a bid to avoid waste, Lord Lamington suggested coating the cake in coconut to make it less messy to eat. And so, the lamington was born!
How Are Lamingtons Made and What Do They Taste Like?
Making lamingtons is a straightforward yet rewarding process. The sponge cake is first cut into squares, then dipped in a thin layer of chocolate icing. After a good roll in desiccated coconut, the lamingtons are left to set. Some variations include a layer of jam or cream in the middle, adding a delightful twist to the traditional recipe.
In terms of taste, lamingtons offer a unique combination of textures and flavors. The soft, airy sponge cake contrasts beautifully with the rich, chocolatey coating and the crunchy, sweet coconut. For those unfamiliar, they might be likened to a more sophisticated version of an American snowball or even a chocolate-covered Twinkie, though the coconut sets them apart with a tropical flair.
The Great Debate: Australia or New Zealand?
The origin of the lamington has sparked a friendly rivalry between Australia and New Zealand, with both nations claiming the dessert as their own. While the prevailing narrative credits Australia with its creation, New Zealand has its own version of the story, suggesting the lamington might have been inspired by traditional British sponge cakes brought over by settlers. Despite the debate, one thing is clear: the lamington has become a beloved treat in both countries, celebrated and enjoyed by all.
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