Lamington

A lamington is a cherished Australian delicacy made from butter or sponge cake, generously coated in chocolate sauce and rolled in desiccated coconut. Some variations even feature a delightful layer of cream or jam sandwiched between two halves of the cake.

The origins of the lamington are somewhat enigmatic, but many believe it was created by Armand Galland, the chef of Lord Lamington. The first documented mention of a "Lamington cake" dates back to 1896 in Queensland.

Today, lamingtons are popular not only in Australia but also in New Zealand, where people celebrate National Lamington Day every year on July 21st. Similar versions of the lamington can be found in countries such as South Africa, the United States, Slovenia, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Hungary, Romania, and on St Helena Island. In New Zealand, a raspberry-flavored version is particularly popular.

In 2009, the lamington was recognized as one of the Q150 Icons of Queensland, solidifying its status as a cultural and culinary icon.