Lamingtons

Step 1

Preheat oven to 180C/350F (or fan forced 160C/320F).

Step 2

Sift flour and baking powder together.

Step 3

Grease a 20 cm x 30 cm / 8" x 12" cake pan. Line with baking paper (parchment paper), leaving an overhang on all sides (to make it easy to remove).

Step 4

Beat butter, sugar and vanilla with an electric mixer on medium high speed until light and fluffy - about 1 1/2 to 2 minutes.

Step 5

Add eggs 1 at a time, beating well after each addition so the batter is smooth, not curdled.

Step 6

Add half the flour and gently fold to combine, then stir in half the milk. Repeat with remaining flour and milk.

Step 7

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25 minutes until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.

Step 8

Stand for 5 minutes then use the overhang baking paper to lift the cake out onto a wire rack and cool completely.

Step 9

Cut cake into 15 squares (5 x 3), or 18 rectangles. Freeze for 1 to 1.5 hours. (Note 2)

Step 10

Combine the Icing ingredients in a heat proof bowl and mix until smooth. Should be a syrup consistency, but not watery. (Note 2)

Step 11

Place coconut in a shallow bowl or pan with a largish surface area (Note 3).

Step 12

Place a piece of cake in the icing and roll to coat using 2 forks. Transfer it into the coconut and quickly roll to coat all over in coconut. Transfer to tray.

Step 13

Repeat with remaining sponges.

Step 14

Stand for 1 to 2 hours, or until set. Then serve with tea and coffee!

Step 15

Beat cream and sugar until firm peaks form.

Step 16

Cut coated Lamington in half horizontally. Spread with jam then pipe or dollop on cream. Top with lid, keep refrigerated.