What is a lamington?
A lamington is an Australian cake made of a square of sponge cake dipped in chocolate icing and rolled in desiccated coconut. Some versions have a layer of jam or cream in the middle.
Lamingtons are named after Lord Lamington, Governor of Queensland from 1896 to 1901. Popular stories say they were first made by his chef, who dipped leftover sponge in chocolate and coconut, though the exact origin is debated.
Lamingtons became a staple of Australian morning teas, school fetes and bakeries. Lamington drives, where community groups sell them to raise money, are a long-standing fundraising tradition.
National Lamington Day
National Lamington Day is celebrated on 21 July, when bakeries and cafes offer special versions. Lamingtons are sold in supermarkets, bakeries and cafes across the country all year round.
Some New Zealanders claim the lamington originated there, adding to the friendly trans-Tasman food rivalry that also surrounds the pavlova.
Variations include raspberry lamingtons rolled in pink jelly and coconut, white chocolate versions and giant lamingtons filled with cream. Home cooks often use day-old sponge, which is easier to dip without crumbling.
Did You Know?
Lord Lamington is said to have disliked the cakes named after him.