Picture this: it’s a lovely afternoon, the sun is casting a warm glow, and you catch a whiff of something sweet and fruity in the air. Curiosity piques, and it’s my favorite treat—Raspberry Lamingtons! This delightful Australian dessert features a fluffy vanilla cake, generously embraced by luscious raspberry jelly and rolled in a hug of shredded coconut. It’s not just a dessert; it’s an experience—perfect for elevating your morning or afternoon tea.
I first came across this simple yet vibrant dessert when searching for a dairy-free treat that wouldn’t skimp on flavor. The best part? These Raspberry Lamingtons come together effortlessly, making them an ideal choice for both seasoned chefs and home cooks alike. Whether you’re hosting a tea party or simply want to indulge after a long day, this recipe brings a burst of color and sweetness to your table. Let’s dive into how you can create this easy and charming treat that is sure to impress!
Why love Raspberry Lamingtons for dessert?
Simplicity at Its Best: This recipe is easy and straightforward, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
Vibrant Flavor: The fruity raspberry jelly paired with fluffy vanilla cake creates an explosion of flavor that’s equally beautiful.
Dairy-Free Delight: Suitable for various diets, these lamingtons fulfill sweet cravings without dairy.
Versatile Sweet Treat: Ideal for morning or afternoon tea, serve them plain or with a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for gatherings or just a cozy day at home, these treats are guaranteed to impress family and friends.
Raspberry Lamingtons Ingredients
For the Cake
• Dairy-Free Butter – Use any plant-based butter to ensure a moist and rich cake.
• Caster Sugar – This fine sugar helps create a light texture; you can substitute with a lighter alternative if you like.
• Vanilla Extract – Pure vanilla delivers the best flavor, but you can use essence as a substitute if needed.
• Eggs – They bind the ingredients and add richness; opt for a vegan egg replacer for a completely dairy-free option.
• Plain Flour – This flour forms the structure of the cake; for a gluten-free twist, use a gluten-free flour blend.
• Baking Powder – Essential for a fluffy texture, this helps the cake rise perfectly.
• Salt – A pinch balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors in your cake.
• Dairy-Free Milk – Any plant-based milk like almond or oat adds moisture to the batter.
For the Coating
• Raspberry Jelly Crystals – These provide the signature sweet coating; feel free to experiment with other jelly flavors for variety.
• Desiccated Coconut – Rolls around the lamingtons, adding a delightful texture and flavor contrast.
To Serve (Optional)
• Raspberry Jam – A spread adds an extra layer of fruity flavor to your dessert.
• Whipped Cream – Use dairy-free whipped cream for a luscious pairing with your Raspberry Lamingtons.
Get ready to enjoy these delightful Raspberry Lamingtons that bring both taste and color to your dessert spread!
How to Make Raspberry Lamingtons
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Grease and line a lamington tin (30cm x 20cm) with baking paper to ensure easy removal of the cake later.
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Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream together the dairy-free butter and caster sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—this should take about 3-4 minutes and will create an airy texture for your cake.
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Add Vanilla and Eggs: Incorporate the vanilla extract, then add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth batter.
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Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the plain flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with dairy-free milk, mixing until just combined—be careful not to overmix to keep the cake fluffy.
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Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into your prepared tin and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. The cake is ready when it springs back lightly when touched and has a golden color.
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Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 10-15 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before moving on to the coating.
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Prepare the Jelly Coating: For the coating, mix the raspberry jelly crystals with boiling water until fully dissolved. Add cold water and refrigerate the mixture until it’s slightly set—this usually takes about 1.5 hours.
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Cut and Coat the Cake: Once the cake is cooled, cut it into squares. Dip each piece first into the jelly, allowing any excess to drip off, and then roll in desiccated coconut for that signature lamington look.
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Set in the Fridge: Finally, let the coated lamingtons set in the fridge for at least one hour before serving. This helps the jelly firm up around the cake.
Optional: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a spread of raspberry jam for an extra indulgent treat.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Raspberry Lamingtons are perfect for meal prep! You can bake the vanilla cake up to 24 hours in advance and keep it in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its moisture. The raspberry jelly coating can also be prepared ahead by mixing the jelly crystals with boiling water and refrigerating until slightly set, which takes about 1.5 hours. Just make sure to dip the squares in jelly and roll them in desiccated coconut right before serving to ensure they stay fresh and vibrant. With these make-ahead options, you can enjoy the joy of serving these sweet treats without the last-minute rush!
How to Store and Freeze Raspberry Lamingtons
Fridge: Store your Raspberry Lamingtons in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days to maintain their freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the lamingtons in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Thawing: To enjoy later, simply thaw the frozen raspberry lamingtons overnight in the fridge and allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
Reheating: If you prefer them warm, briefly heat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, but be cautious not to overheat as it can affect the texture.
Flavorful Raspberry Lamingtons Variations
Get ready to unleash your creativity and enjoy these delightful twists on the classic Raspberry Lamingtons!
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Nutty Surprise: Add shredded almonds or chopped hazelnuts to your cake batter for a crunchy texture that compliments the softness beautifully.
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Chocolate Indulgence: Drizzle melted dairy-free chocolate over the finished lamingtons for a decadent touch that chocolate lovers will adore!
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Jam-Filled Centers: Spoon a dollop of raspberry jam between layers of cake before coating for a juicy, sweet burst in every bite. You’ll love the extra flavor!
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Tropical Twist: Use coconut cream in place of dairy-free milk for a richer cake, infusing it with a decadent coconut flavor alongside the raspberry.
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Citrus Burst: Mix in some zest from lemons or limes into the cake batter to brighten up the flavors—goodness, what a zesty surprise!
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Spiced Version: Add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg to the cake batter for a warm touch that takes your lamingtons to a cozy, comforting level.
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Alternative Jelly Flavors: Swap raspberry jelly for flavors like passion fruit, mango, or even mixed berry for a colorful and fruity adventure!
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Matching Toppings: For a fun finish, top each lamington with glistening candied fruit or edible flowers, transforming them into elegant tea party treats.
Explore these variations to find your favorite or mix and match for a delightful dessert experience!
What to Serve with Raspberry Lamingtons?
Imagine enjoying your sweet lamingtons alongside delightful accompaniments that elevate your tea experience to new heights.
- Creamy Coconut Milkshake: A rich, velvety drink that mirrors the coconut coating, perfectly balancing the fruity sweetness of the lamingtons.
- Zesty Lemonade: The tart citrus complements the sweetness of the raspberry jelly, refreshing your palate beautifully between bites.
- Herbal Tea Bliss: A delicate chamomile or peppermint tea pairs wonderfully, enhancing the flavors without overpowering them.
- Fresh Fruit Medley: Serve with fresh berries and melon to add a burst of freshness and natural sweetness alongside the dessert.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling warm melted dairy-free chocolate over the lamingtons adds an indulgent touch that delights chocolate lovers.
- Coconut Whipped Cream: A fluffy, dairy-free topping that adds a light sweetness and silky texture to each mouthful of lamington.
- Iced Coffee: The rich, bitter notes contrast beautifully with the sweet lamington, making for a delightful afternoon pick-me-up.
- Raspberry Jam: A side of tangy raspberry jam for dipping enhances the fruitiness, creating an extra layer of flavor with every bite.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and dreamy, a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream serves as a luscious contrast to the chewy coconut exterior.
Expert Tips for Raspberry Lamingtons
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Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your dairy-free butter is at room temperature for easier mixing, promoting a smoother batter.
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Avoid Overmixing: Be cautious not to overmix the batter, as this can lead to a dense cake rather than light and fluffy Raspberry Lamingtons.
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Watch Jelly Setting: Monitor the jelly’s setting time; it should be thick but spreadable, not fully set, for a perfect coating.
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Experiment with Flavors: For a fun twist, try using different flavored jellies like passion fruit or strawberry for a vibrant change.
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Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely before cutting and coating to prevent the jelly from melting or slipping off.
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Storage Tips: Keep any leftover lamingtons in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness for up to 4 days.
Raspberry Lamingtons Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to choose ripe raspberries for the jelly?
Absolutely! Look for raspberries that are plump, firm, and vibrant in color. Avoid any that have dark spots or appear mushy, as these could indicate overripeness. Fresh, firm berries will lend the best flavor and sweetness to your jelly coating.
How should I store leftover Raspberry Lamingtons?
To keep your Raspberry Lamingtons fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This will help maintain their delightful texture and flavor. Just make sure they aren’t stacked too high to prevent any squishing.
Can I freeze Raspberry Lamingtons? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze Raspberry Lamingtons! To freeze, first place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Once solid, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, where they can stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the fridge and allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
What should I do if my jelly isn’t setting properly?
If your jelly isn’t setting well, it might not have been mixed with enough cold water or could be too warm. To fix this, place the jelly mixture back in the fridge for 15-30 minutes until it thickens slightly. If you find it’s too runny, you can mix in a little less cold water next time or ensure you’re using the right ratio as instructed on the jelly package.
Are Raspberry Lamingtons safe for those with nut allergies?
Great question! This recipe doesn’t include nuts, but always double-check the labels on your dairy-free butter and any other packaged ingredients, as cross-contamination can occur. If necessary, you can also ensure your coconut is labeled nut-free to be absolutely safe.
Can I substitute any ingredients for dietary restrictions?
Certainly! To make a gluten-free version, replace the plain flour with a gluten-free flour blend. For a vegan adaptation, use a plant-based egg replacer instead of eggs. This recipe is highly adaptable, so feel free to experiment based on your dietary needs—enjoy the process!
These Raspberry Lamingtons Recipe FAQs are designed to help you navigate the baking experience with ease and confidence!
Dairy-Free Raspberry Lamingtons for a Luscious Tea Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F) and grease a lamington tin.
- Cream the dairy-free butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add vanilla extract and incorporate eggs one at a time.
- Mix the dry ingredients before gradually adding to the wet mixture along with dairy-free milk until just combined.
- Pour batter into the tin and bake for 30-35 minutes. Cake is done when springy and golden.
- Allow cake to cool in the tin for 10-15 minutes then transfer to a wire rack until completely cool.
- Mix raspberry jelly crystals with boiling water and refrigerate until slightly set.
- Cut cooled cake into squares, dip in jelly, and then roll in desiccated coconut.
- Refrigerate coated lamingtons for at least one hour before serving.