When the craving for a sweet treat strikes, there’s nothing quite like the irresistible charm of Pink Lamingtons (Pasti mir-Roża). These delightful, tender squares of cake enveloped in a luscious jelly coating and rolled in fine coconut create a dessert that transforms ordinary moments into something extraordinary. I first tried making these morsels during a quiet afternoon, and I’d be lying if I said they didn’t evoke a sense of nostalgia, reminding me of sun-soaked picnics and joyous celebrations.
This recipe melds simplicity with flavor—perfect for home chefs tired of the same mundane desserts or those looking to impress friends at a gathering. With just a handful of approachable ingredients and about 20 minutes of baking time, you can whip up this stunning treat that’s both pleasing to the eyes and the palate. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into the sweet world of Pink Lamingtons, where each bite is a taste of joy waiting to happen!
Why will you love Pink Lamingtons?
Delightful and fun to make, these Pink Lamingtons are a great way to brighten up any gathering or family dinner.
Nostalgic flavors will transport you back to joyous celebrations, making them perfect for both kids and adults.
Quick to prepare, you’ll have them on the table in just 20 minutes—ideal for busy home cooks.
Versatile, you can customize with different jams or jellies, making this dessert unique every time.
Crowd-pleasing, these vibrant treats are sure to impress your friends, leaving them asking for the recipe!
Indulge in the magic of homemade desserts that offer a delightful twist on classic flavors!
Pink Lamingtons Ingredients
For the Cake
• 250 g butter – ensures a rich and moist base for your Pink Lamingtons.
• 250 g sugar – adds sweetness to balance the flavors.
• 4 eggs – provide structure and richness to the cake.
• 200 ml milk – keeps the batter smooth and helps keep the cake tender.
• 350 g self-raising flour – gives height and lightness, essential for fluffy lamingtons.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract – enhances the overall flavor profile beautifully.
• 1/2 tsp salt – balances the sweetness and elevates the other flavors.
For the Jelly Coating
• 200 ml boiling water – dissolves the jelly crystals effectively for a perfect coating.
• 1 packet raspberry/strawberry jelly crystals – this is crucial for that delightful fruity flavor in your Pink Lamingtons.
• few drops red food colouring (optional) – intensifies the pink hue for a more vibrant appearance.
For the Coconut Roll
• fine desiccated coconut – provides a lovely texture and enhances the overall presentation of the dessert.
These ingredients come together to create a delicacy that’s not only a feast for the taste buds but also a vibrant addition to your dessert table!
How to Make Pink Lamingtons
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Preheat the oven to 180°C or 350°F. Line a square or rectangular tin with parchment paper to prevent sticking, ensuring easy release once your cake is baked.
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Mix the self-raising flour and salt in a bowl. This step ensures your cake has the right texture and balance of flavors—light and fluffy!
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Cream the butter and sugar in a mixer or large bowl until pale. This will take about 3-5 minutes, and it should look light and fluffy, setting the foundation for a moist cake.
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Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This process builds stability and richness, giving your Pink Lamingtons the perfect body.
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Incorporate the flour and vanilla extract gently. Mix until just combined; avoiding over-mixing keeps your cake light and airy.
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Pour in the milk, mixing until fully incorporated. This adds moisture and helps bring all the ingredients together seamlessly.
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Transfer the batter into the prepared tin and tap gently on the bench to release any air bubbles trapped inside.
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Bake the sponge for about 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. The top should be golden and springy to the touch.
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Cool the sponge in the tin for a few minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack. Let it cool completely before moving on to the jelly.
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Prepare the jelly mix by combining jelly crystals with boiling water in a deep bowl. Stir until fully dissolved, then let it cool slightly before dipping.
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Cut your cooled sponge into equal squares or rectangles. You want them to be bite-sized and easy to dip into the jelly.
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Dip each sponge piece into the jelly mixture, ensuring all sides are coated. This gives your Pink Lamingtons their signature fruity layer.
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Roll the dipped sponge in desiccated coconut and place them on a tray. Clean the coconut occasionally to maintain a beautiful appearance, free of pink chunks.
Optional: For an extra touch, sprinkle some chopped nuts over the coconut for delightful crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Pink Lamingtons?
Savor the joy of crafting a memorable meal that perfectly accompanies these delightful treats.
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Light Tea: A refreshing cup of herbal tea elevates the experience, balancing the sweetness of the Lamingtons with fragrant notes.
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Berry Salad: Juicy berries tossed with mint offer a tart contrast and freshness that beautifully complements the rich coconut flavor.
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Coconut Ice Cream: Creamy, coconut-infused ice cream elevates each bite of the Lamington, perfect for a delightful dessert.
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Sparkling Water: The fizz of sparkling water cleanses the palate, making each Lamington feel like a new adventure in flavor.
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Chocolate Dipping Sauce: For a decadent twist, serve a warm chocolate sauce that adds richness, creating a fantastic flavor contrast.
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Festive Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of seasonal fruits not only enhances the table but also provides a refreshing, light contrast to the sweetness.
Add these pairings to your dessert table, and watch how they enhance the experience of enjoying your Pink Lamingtons!
Pink Lamingtons Variations
Make your Pink Lamingtons even more delightful with these fun twists on the classic recipe!
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Chocolate Lamingtons: Use chocolate cake instead of vanilla for a rich and indulgent dessert. The chocolate pairs beautifully with the jelly.
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Nutty Coconut: Add a sprinkle of chopped almonds or hazelnuts to the coconut coating for a delightful crunch and an earthy flavor.
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Fruit Filling: Before dipping, spread a thin layer of jam or fruit preserves between two sponge pieces for an extra fruity surprise!
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Coconut Flavor Boost: Use coconut milk instead of regular milk for a tropical twist that enhances the coconut flavor in both the cake and coating.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute self-raising flour with a gluten-free blend. Your friends with dietary restrictions will appreciate the thoughtful touch!
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Berry Infusion: Instead of raspberry or strawberry jelly, try using blueberry or cherry jelly crystals for a vibrant and unique flavor experience.
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Zesty Surprise: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the batter for a citrusy punch that brightens up every bite.
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Spiced Up: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom into the coconut coating for an aromatic twist that elevates the taste profile and adds warmth.
Let your imagination run wild, and elevate your Pink Lamingtons to new heights!
Expert Tips for Pink Lamingtons
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Perfecting the Texture: Ensure not to over-mix the batter; this helps keep your Pink Lamingtons light and fluffy for that irresistible bite.
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Cool Completely: Always let the sponge cool completely before dipping in the jelly. This prevents the jelly from melting and ensures an even coating.
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Jelly Application: Use warm rather than hot jelly when dipping to achieve a smooth and even layer. This makes the coating process much easier!
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Coconut Care: Clean the coconut frequently while rolling—this keeps the white coconut pristine and enhances the visual appeal of your Pink Lamingtons.
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Experiment with Flavors: Don’t be afraid to try different jellies! Mix it up with passionfruit or mango for a unique twist that keeps things exciting in the kitchen.
How to Store and Freeze Pink Lamingtons
Room Temperature: Keep your Pink Lamingtons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Fridge: For longer storage, place the container in the fridge, where they can last for up to a week. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap each square individually in cling film and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll stay delicious for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying!
Reheating: While these treats are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, you can reheat slightly in the microwave for about 10 seconds for a warm, gooey delight.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Pink Lamingtons are a perfect choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the sponge cake up to 24 hours in advance; simply bake it, let it cool completely, and store it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. The jelly coating can also be made ahead; just keep it covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, cut the sponge into squares and dip them into the jelly mixture, rolling them in coconut right before enjoying. This way, your Pink Lamingtons will remain fresh and just as delicious, giving you a beautiful dessert with minimal last-minute effort!
Pink Lamingtons Recipe FAQs
How do I know when the ingredients, like eggs and butter, are at the right ripeness for baking?
Absolutely! For the best results in your Pink Lamingtons, use room temperature eggs and softened butter. This means letting them sit out for about 30 minutes before you start baking. Room temperature ingredients blend more smoothly, leading to a lighter cake!
How should I store my Pink Lamingtons, and how long will they last?
I recommend storing your Pink Lamingtons in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, place the container in the fridge, where they can stay good for up to a week. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before enjoying again for the best flavors!
Can I freeze Pink Lamingtons, and if so, how?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your Pink Lamingtons, wrap each square individually in cling film, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They will remain delightful for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge again, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight. This way, you’ll keep the flavors intact while enjoying their newly refreshed texture!
What if my sponge cake turns out too dense? What could be the cause?
Very commonly, a dense cake can arise from overmixing the batter. Be sure to gently fold the ingredients together, especially when incorporating the flour. Also, check that your baking powder is fresh and hasn’t expired, as it’s crucial for your Pink Lamingtons to rise beautifully!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind for guests, like allergies to coconut or gluten?
Absolutely! If you’re catering to guests with allergies, you might want to check for gluten-free flour options to replace the self-raising flour in this recipe. For coconut allergies, consider rolling the squares in crushed nuts or leaving them plain for a minimalist approach. It’s all about customizations to ensure everyone can enjoy your delightful Pink Lamingtons!
Delightful Pink Lamingtons: A Sweet Taste of Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 180°C or 350°F. Line a square or rectangular tin with parchment paper.
- Mix the self-raising flour and salt in a bowl.
- Cream the butter and sugar until pale and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
- Incorporate the flour and vanilla extract gently.
- Pour in the milk, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Transfer the batter into the prepared tin and tap gently to release air bubbles.
- Bake the sponge for about 20 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool the sponge in the tin for a few minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
- Prepare the jelly mix by combining jelly crystals with boiling water and stir until fully dissolved.
- Cut your cooled sponge into equal squares or rectangles.
- Dip each sponge piece into the jelly mixture, ensuring all sides are coated.
- Roll the dipped sponge in desiccated coconut and place them on a tray.