Introduction

Raspberry Lamingtons are a delightful twist on the classic Australian treat, combining the soft, spongy texture of traditional lamingtons with the vibrant flavor of fresh raspberries. These bite-sized cakes are dipped in a rich raspberry syrup and rolled in shredded coconut, creating a perfect balance of sweetness, tartness, and texture.

I first made these when I was looking to bring a fresh spin to the traditional lamington, and the result was nothing short of delicious. The raspberry syrup adds a burst of fruity flavor that perfectly complements the airy sponge cake, and the coconut gives each bite an irresistible crunch. You can serve these at an afternoon tea or as a fun treat for guests, and they’re guaranteed to be a conversation starter.

Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, an afternoon tea, or simply craving a new dessert to try, these Raspberry Lamingtons are sure to be a hit. They’re a sweet, vibrant take on a beloved classic that everyone will enjoy!

Perfect for:

Afternoon tea
Special occasions
Family gatherings
Gift-giving
Raspberry lovers

Why You’ll Love This Raspberry Lamingtons

Here’s why Raspberry Lamingtons will become your new favorite:

Soft and Fluffy Texture: The sponge cake base is light and airy, creating a perfect foundation for the raspberry syrup and coconut coating.
Raspberry Twist: The addition of raspberry syrup elevates the classic lamington, offering a tangy fruitiness that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the coconut.
Easy to Make: This recipe is simple and straightforward, yet the result is a stunning and delicious treat that looks as good as it tastes.
Perfect for Sharing: These bite-sized delights are perfect for sharing at gatherings, whether it’s a casual get-together or a more formal event.
Versatile: You can play around with the syrup, using other berry options like strawberry or blueberry, if you prefer.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 16-20 lamingtons
Calories per serving: Approximately 150-170 calories
Key Nutrients: Protein: 2g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 7g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Raspberry Lamingtons:

For the Sponge Cake:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup milk

Raspberry Syrup:

1 cup fresh raspberries (or raspberry jam for convenience)
½ cup water
¾ cup granulated sugar

Coating:

2 cups shredded coconut (unsweetened or sweetened, as per preference)

Ingredient Highlights

Sponge Cake: The fluffy, soft sponge cake is the base of the lamington and a key to making this dessert delightful. It absorbs the syrup well, adding to the overall moistness.
Raspberries: Fresh raspberries or raspberry jam provide the perfect tangy flavor to balance the sweetness of the cake and coconut.
Coconut: Shredded coconut is an essential part of lamingtons, giving them their signature texture and sweetness.
Butter: The butter adds richness and helps create a tender crumb in the sponge cake.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Raspberry Lamingtons:

Prepare the Sponge Cake:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, and then add the vanilla extract. Continue mixing until smooth and well-combined.
Add the Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the Raspberry Syrup:

Make the Raspberry Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine the fresh raspberries, water, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the raspberries break down and the mixture thickens slightly (about 5-10 minutes). If using raspberry jam, simply combine the jam with water and sugar, then heat until smooth.
Strain (Optional): If you prefer a smoother syrup, strain the mixture to remove the seeds. Set the syrup aside to cool.

Assemble the Lamingtons:

Cut the Cake into Squares: Once the cake has completely cooled, cut it into 1 ½ to 2-inch squares.
Coat with Raspberry Syrup: Place the cooled raspberry syrup in a shallow bowl. One at a time, dip each cake square into the syrup, ensuring it’s fully coated but not overly soggy.
Roll in Coconut: Immediately roll the syrup-soaked cake square in the shredded coconut, ensuring all sides are evenly coated. Place on a tray or plate to set.
Repeat: Repeat the process for the remaining cake squares until they’re all coated with syrup and coconut.

Chill the Lamingtons:

Chill: For the best texture and flavor, chill the lamingtons in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

How to Serve Raspberry Lamingtons

Raspberry Lamingtons are the perfect treat for a variety of occasions:

With a Hot Beverage: Serve them with a cup of tea or coffee for a sweet, indulgent afternoon snack.
As a Party Dessert: Arrange the lamingtons on a platter as a fun, bite-sized dessert for parties, barbecues, or family gatherings.
For Afternoon Tea: These lamingtons are a great addition to any afternoon tea spread, especially with their vibrant raspberry flavor.
Gift-Giving: Package them in a pretty box or jar for a thoughtful homemade gift.
For Special Occasions: They make a beautiful addition to any special occasion or celebration, especially with their festive look and vibrant color.

Additional Tips for Raspberry Lamingtons

Here are some tips to ensure your Raspberry Lamingtons are perfect every time:

Use Fresh Raspberries: Fresh raspberries give the syrup a bright, natural flavor. If using jam, ensure it’s high-quality raspberry jam for the best result.
Don’t Overdip the Cake: When dipping the cake squares into the syrup, be careful not to let them soak too long, as this could make them soggy. A quick dip is all you need.
Chill the Lamingtons: Chilling the lamingtons helps the syrup set and gives the coconut a chance to adhere to the cake. It also makes them easier to handle.
Customize the Coating: You can try using sweetened coconut for a sweeter finish or unsweetened coconut for a more neutral flavor.
Cut Even Squares: For uniform lamingtons, use a sharp knife to cut the sponge cake into even squares before dipping.

Recipe Variations for Raspberry Lamingtons

Here are some variations you can try for Raspberry Lamingtons:

Strawberry Lamingtons: Substitute raspberry syrup with fresh strawberry syrup for a different berry flavor.
Chocolate Raspberry Lamingtons: Add a layer of chocolate ganache on top of the syrup before rolling in coconut for a richer twist.
Lemon Raspberry Lamingtons: Add a tablespoon of lemon zest to the cake batter for a citrusy contrast to the raspberry flavor.
Nutty Raspberry Lamingtons: Add chopped nuts, like almonds or hazelnuts, to the coconut coating for added texture and flavor.
Vegan Raspberry Lamingtons: Replace the butter and eggs with vegan substitutes, like dairy-free butter and flax eggs, for a vegan-friendly version.
Raspberry Coconut Cream Lamingtons: Fill the center of the cake squares with a light coconut cream before dipping them in the raspberry syrup for an extra indulgent treat.
Orange Raspberry Lamingtons: Add a teaspoon of orange zest to the sponge cake for a citrusy complement to the raspberry.
Gluten-Free Raspberry Lamingtons: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option.
Raspberry Jam Lamingtons: Use raspberry jam instead of fresh raspberries to make a quicker version of the syrup.
Raspberry and White Chocolate Lamingtons: Add small pieces of white chocolate to the cake batter or sprinkle them on top for an extra layer of sweetness.

Freezing and Storage for Raspberry Lamingtons

Freezing: Raspberry Lamingtons freeze well. Simply place them in a single layer on a tray, freeze until firm, then transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Storage: Store leftover lamingtons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days. You can also refrigerate them for up to a week.

Special Equipment for Raspberry Lamingtons

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Raspberry Lamingtons easier:

Electric Mixer: An electric mixer will help you achieve the fluffy texture for the sponge cake.
Shallow Bowls: For dipping the cake squares in syrup and coconut, shallow bowls work best.
Sharp Knife: Use a sharp knife to cut the sponge cake into even squares for uniform lamingtons.
Baking Pan: A square or rectangular pan (9×9-inch) is perfect for baking the sponge cake.
Cooling Rack: A cooling rack allows the cake to cool evenly and prevents it from becoming soggy.
Wire Rack: Use a wire rack to cool the lamingtons after they’ve been dipped in syrup and coconut.

Frequently Asked Questions for Raspberry Lamingtons

Can I use frozen raspberries?
Yes, frozen raspberries work well in the syrup. Just thaw them before cooking and proceed with the recipe as usual.
Can I freeze the lamingtons?
Yes, lamingtons freeze well. Just be sure to freeze them in a single layer and transfer them to a container once they are firm.
Can I make these lamingtons gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
How do I prevent the coconut from falling off?
Let the lamingtons set and chill in the refrigerator after coating them to ensure the coconut sticks.
Can I use a different fruit for the syrup?
Yes, you can substitute other berries like strawberries or blueberries to create a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

Raspberry Lamingtons are a sweet, tangy treat that takes the classic lamington to the next level. The soft, sponge cake is drenched in a vibrant raspberry sauce and coated with coconut for that perfect balance of flavors and textures. These little bites of goodness are as delicious as they are eye-catching, making them a great choice for any gathering or as a fun afternoon snack.

Whether you’re serving them at a party, treating yourself with a cup of tea, or sharing them with friends and family, these Raspberry Lamingtons will definitely leave a lasting impression. So simple to make yet so delightful to enjoy, they’re sure to be a favorite with everyone!

If you decide to make them, I’d love to see how your Raspberry Lamingtons turn out! Don’t forget to snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag me—can’t wait to see your delicious creation! Happy baking!

Raspberry Lamingtons