Celebrate National Lamington Day on 21 July and indulge in a little Aussie tradition.
Folklore has it that these delectable treats were originally created after the Governor of Queensland, Lord Lamington's chef was called upon at short notice to feed unexpected guests. Using only the limited ingredients available, Lord Lamington's chef cut up some left-over French vanilla sponge cake, dipped the slices in chocolate, set them in coconut and the rest is history.
The question is where to find THE best Lamington in Australia and do you prefer retro desiccated coconut or hipster-shredded coconut? Lamingtons come in all shapes and sizes, cream filled, plain, the options seem endless.
Here's where you'll find some of Australia's best Lamingtons:
Jocelyn's Provisions, Brisbane QLD
A Brisbane institution, Jocelyn's Provisions Lamington's are made with their famously moist butter cake with a hint of orange zest. These beauties are then dipped in chocolate and a smidge of raspberry and rolled in coconut! Yuuum
Jocelyn's Provisions – Shop 11, Centro on James, 46 James St, Fortitude Valley QLD
Bourke St Bakery, Sydney NSW
This neighbourhood bakery has grown from humble beginnings in Surry Hills to become a much-loved Sydney staple. Their Big Big Lamingtons are something to behold, four layers of génoise sponge, homemade raspberry jam, Callebaut dark chocolate and coconut. These are in high demand on Australia Day!
Bourke St Bakery – various locations including 633 Bourke St, Surry Hills NSW
Candied Bakery, Melbourne VIC
In Victoria, you'll find Candied Bakery an Aussie bakery with an American twist and a dash of European influence. Their lamingtons have a modern twist with oozy jam centre and a dusting of toasted coconut.
Candied Bakery – 81a Hudsons Rd, Spotswood VIC
LusciousKiki Cakes, Sydney NSW
Famous for Lamingtons, their lamington menu changes with the season and uses fresh, real flavours. Owner Kirin Tipping creates lamingtons in creative variations such as Strawberry Shortcake, Choc-Hazelnut Bliss and Ruby Red Velvet Lamingtons!
LusciousKiki – 16 Sydneyham Rd, Brookvale NSW
Wild Baker, Perth WA
Located in South Fremantle, visit this bakery and experience something a little bit wild, like their pimped up Lamingtons with Armagnac poached cherries and mascarpone cream.
2/390 South Terrace, South Fremantle WA
If you're inspired to try your hand at making Lamingtons, here's Donna Hay's recipe for simple, delicious Lamingtons.
These treats are brilliant for Australia Day too. Did your favourite Lamington bakery make the list? Share your favourite bakery, we'd love visit them all!
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Images: Bakeries own.