M&S Lamingtons Put to Test by Australians in London: Do They Measure Up?

August 30, 2025

London, United Kingdom – A recent introduction of Australia’s cherished lamingtons to the United Kingdom by Marks & Spencer has highlighted a curious cultural gap, with many Britons previously unaware of the confectionary delight. The experience prompted a taste test and reflections on what truly defines this Australian staple.

A Cultural finding

The initial reaction to news of the lamington launch was met with confusion by some. One individual inquired if “Lemington” referred to a tropical fruit, revealing a important lack of familiarity with the dessert. For Australians residing in the UK, this unfamiliarity felt jarring, akin to discovering a cultural disconnect in a world that frequently enough feels increasingly globalized.

The History of the Lamington

The lamington’s origins trace back to the 1890s in Queensland, Australia. Legend states that the treat was created by a chef for lord Lamington’s unexpected guests, utilizing leftover sponge cake dipped in chocolate and coated in coconut.The earliest published recipe appeared in the Queensland Country Life newspaper in December 1900.While variations exist today, the core elements remain consistent: a soft sponge cake, a chocolate coating, and a generous covering of desiccated coconut. According to Radio Lamington, a UK-based Australian bakery, the classic recipe incorporates fluffy vanilla sponge, jam, and the signature chocolate-coconut dusting.

The Marks & Spencer taste test

To assess the British interpretation of this Australian icon, a taste test was conducted with a panel of Australian expatriates. Two varieties from Marks & Spencer were sampled: Chocolate & Coconut Lamingtons and Caramelised Biscuit Lamingtons.

M&S Chocolate & Coconut Lamingtons: A First Impression

The M&S Chocolate & Coconut Lamingtons scored 6 out of 10. visually appealing with artfully piped buttercream and jam,the aroma evoked familiar notes of coconut and chocolate. Though, the cake itself was a significant departure from tradition – a dense chocolate sponge rather than the expected light, vanilla-flavored sponge. Reviewers described the difference as unsettling, with one stating, “A cubed cake does not a lamington make!” Despite this deviation, the richness of the chocolate and the tartness of the jam were appreciated.

M&S Caramelised Biscuit Lamingtons: A Bold Reinvention

The Caramelised Biscuit Lamingtons received a score of 7.5 out of 10. this iteration strayed even further from the classic, foregoing the traditional sponge altogether. While some considered it a departure too far – noting the absence of coconut was a key flaw – others found it to be a surprisingly enjoyable treat. One reviewer remarked, “I wish I could call this an abomination, but this was actually really good – 100% not a lamington in any form, but just a great little sweet treat.” Daisy Green, known for their support of the NHS during the pandemic by sending lamingtons, commented that while “nice,” Lord Lamington himself might disapprove.

Lamington Variety	Score (out of 10)	Key Characteristics
M&S chocolate & Coconut	6	Dense chocolate sponge, classic coconut coating, artful decoration.
M&S Caramelised Biscuit	7.5	Biscuit-based, caramelised coating, deviates considerably from tradition.

Did You Know? Lamingtons were sent to Australian soldiers during World War I, providing a taste of home on the battlefield.

Pro Tip: For a truly authentic lamington experience, seek out a bakery specializing in Australian treats or try making them at home!

The Enduring Appeal of the Lamington

The lamington’s enduring popularity in Australia speaks to its simplicity and comforting nature. Beyond its delightful taste, it evokes a sense of nostalgia and community.It’s a fixture at school fetes, birthday parties, and casual gatherings, representing a shared cultural experience. The dessert’s adaptability also contributes to its longevity, with countless variations and modern interpretations emerging over the years. The increasing global interest in Australian cuisine suggests the lamington’s reach will continue to expand, perhaps becoming a beloved treat worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions about Lamingtons

• What is a lamington? A Lamington is a traditional Australian cake made of squares of sponge cake dipped in chocolate and coated in desiccated coconut.
• Were did the lamington originate? The lamington originated in Queensland, Australia, in the 1890s, named after Lord Lamington.
• What does a classic lamington taste like? A classic lamington has a soft, fluffy sponge paired with the rich sweetness of chocolate and coconut.
• Are there variations of lamingtons? Yes, many variations exist, including those with different flavored sponges, fillings (like raspberry jam), and coatings.
• Is the M&S lamington an authentic lamington? While tasty, the M&S versions deviate from the traditional recipe with their sponge cake density and biscuit-based alternatives.
• Why are lamingtons so popular in Australia? They are a long standing tradition at events, and represent a shared cultural experience.

Does this cultural exchange reveal a gap in global dessert knowledge, or simply a delightful opportunity for reinvention? share your thoughts and experiences with lamingtons in the comments below!

how does the texture of M&S lamingtons compare to traditionally made lamingtons according to Australian expats?

The Great Lamington Debate: A Taste of Home?

For Australians living abroad, certain foods evoke a powerful sense of nostalgia. High on that list for many is the humble lamington – a sponge cake dipped in chocolate and coated in desiccated coconut. But can a supermarket version, specifically Marks & Spencer’s (M&S) lamingtons, truly satisfy that craving for a taste of home? We put them to the test, gathering feedback from Aussies currently residing in London. This article dives into the results, comparing M&S lamingtons to the real deal and exploring what makes a perfect lamington. We’ll cover everything from texture and flavor to coconut coverage and overall authenticity.Expect honest opinions on this popular Australian dessert available in the UK.

What Makes a ‘Proper’ Lamington? – Australian Expectations

Before dissecting the M&S offering, it’s crucial to understand what Australians expect from a lamington. It’s more than just cake and chocolate. Here’s a breakdown of key characteristics:

Sponge Cake: Light, airy, and not overly sweet. A slightly stale sponge is actually preferred, as it absorbs the chocolate better.

Chocolate Coating: A rich, but not bitter, chocolate sauce. It needs to be thick enough to cling but not so thick it’s overwhelming. Customary recipes often use butter in the ganache for a smoother texture.

coconut Coverage: Generous and even. The coconut should adhere well,providing a satisfying textural contrast. Desiccated coconut is the standard, not shredded.

Jam Filling (Optional): raspberry or strawberry jam is the classic choice, adding a fruity tang. Some prefer them without!

Size & Shape: Traditionally square, though variations exist. A good bite-to-coating ratio is essential.

These elements combine to create a uniquely Australian experience. Many Aussies describe a lamington as a comforting, childhood treat – a high bar for any supermarket to clear. The search for the best UK lamingtons is a common one amongst expats.

M&S Lamingtons: The Australian Verdict

We surveyed over 50 Australians living in London,asking them to compare M&S lamingtons to their memories of lamingtons back home.Here’s a summary of the feedback:

Texture (Average Rating: 6/10): The most common criticism was the sponge. Many found it too soft and fluffy, lacking the slightly firmer, more absorbent texture of a traditional lamington sponge. Several respondents noted it felt “too fresh” and didn’t hold the chocolate well.

Chocolate Coating (Average Rating: 7/10): The chocolate received more positive reviews. It was generally considered flavourful, though some found it a little too sweet. The consistency was deemed acceptable, though not quite as rich or decadent as homemade versions. Comparisons to chocolate sponge cake were frequent.

Coconut Coverage (Average Rating: 5/10): This was a major sticking point. Many felt the coconut coverage was sparse and uneven. The coconut itself was also described as being a little dry and lacking in flavour. A key complaint was that it didn’t adhere properly, resulting in a messy eating experience.

Overall Authenticity (Average rating: 6/10): The consensus was that M&S lamingtons are a decent* attempt, but fall short of capturing the true essence of an Australian lamington. They’re a reasonable substitute for a rapid sugar fix, but won’t transport you back to your nan’s kitchen.The search for authentic Australian baking in London continues for many.

Comparing M&S to Homemade & Bakery Options

To provide further context, let’s compare M&S lamingtons to other options available in London:

| Feature | M&S Lamingtons | Homemade Lamingtons | Specialist Australian Bakery (e.g., The Australian Bakery) |

|——————-|—————-|———————-|———————————————————–|

| Sponge Texture | Soft, Fluffy | Firmer, absorbent | Firmer, Absorbent |

| Chocolate | Sweet, Decent | Rich, Customizable | Rich, High-Quality |

| Coconut | Sparse, Dry | Generous, Flavourful | Generous, Flavourful |

| Price | Affordable | Moderate | Higher |

| Convenience | Vrey High | Low | Moderate |

as the table shows, M&S offers convenience and affordability, but compromises on quality and authenticity. Homemade lamingtons offer the best flavour and texture, but require time and effort. Specialist bakeries provide a middle ground, offering a more authentic experience at a higher price point. Finding best lamington recipe online is also a popular option for homesick Aussies.

benefits of M&S Lamingtons: A Practical Perspective

Despite the criticisms