Jamaican Chocolate Coconut Squares

Ingredients

In this Jamaican adaptation, the traditional Australian Lamingtons are transformed into Jamaican Chocolate Coconut Squares. The original recipe is modified to incorporate Jamaican flavors and ingredients, such as the addition of tropical spices like nutmeg or allspice to the chocolate cake batter. The glaze is also enhanced with a hint of rum, adding a distinct Jamaican flair. Lastly, the shredded coconut is toasted to bring out its natural nuttiness and create a more pronounced flavor. We alse have the original recipe for Double Chocolate Lamingtons, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (50g) unsweetened cocoa powder 1/2 cup (50g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (120ml) boiling water 1/2 cup (120ml) boiling water
• For the glaze: For the glaze:
• 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) unsweetened cocoa powder 1/4 cup (60ml) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup (60ml) whole milk 1/4 cup (60ml) whole milk
• 1 tablespoon dark rum (optional) 1 tablespoon dark rum (optional)
• 2 cups (160g) shredded coconut, toasted 2 cups (160g) shredded coconut, toasted

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 52g, 36g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.4g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour a 9x9-inch baking pan.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, nutmeg, and allspice.
3. 3.
   Add the milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until well combined.
4. 4.
   Gradually add the boiling water to the batter, stirring continuously until the batter is smooth.
5. 5.
   Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
6. 6.
   Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. 7.
   Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan.
8. 8.
   Once the cake is cooled, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, and rum (if using) until smooth.
9. 9.
   Cut the cake into squares of desired size.
10. 10.
    Dip each square into the glaze, making sure to coat all sides.
11. 11.
    Roll the glazed squares in the toasted shredded coconut until fully coated.
12. 12.
    Place the coated squares on a wire rack to allow the glaze to set.
13. 13.
    Serve and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Shredded coconut — Toast the shredded coconut in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown. This will enhance its flavor and add a delightful crunch to the squares.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, add a pinch of ground cinnamon to the cake batter.
• If you prefer a stronger rum flavor, increase the amount of rum in the glaze.
• To make the squares more festive, sprinkle some colorful edible sprinkles on top of the glaze before it sets.
• If you don't have a wire rack, you can place the coated squares on a parchment-lined baking sheet to set.
• These squares taste even better the next day, so consider making them in advance for a special occasion.

Serving advice

Serve the Jamaican Chocolate Coconut Squares as a delightful dessert after a Jamaican-inspired meal. They pair perfectly with a cup of Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee or a refreshing glass of coconut water.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Jamaican Chocolate Coconut Squares on a serving platter, allowing the glossy chocolate glaze and toasted coconut to showcase their irresistible appeal. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint for an added touch of elegance.