Colorful, sweet, and full of nostalgic charm, lolly cake is a beloved treat in New Zealand that brings back childhood memories for many. This no-bake dessert is incredibly easy to prepare and only requires a few ingredients. With its chewy texture, vibrant pastel colors from soft candies, and creamy sweetness from condensed milk and crushed biscuits, lolly cake is perfect for parties, afternoon teas, or as a fun recipe to make with kids. Whether you’re looking for a quick and cheerful dessert or a traditional Kiwi treat, this easy lolly cake recipe is sure to please everyone who takes a bite.
What is Lolly Cake?
A Classic New Zealand Sweet
Lolly cake is a traditional New Zealand dessert made by combining crushed malt biscuits with chopped fruit puff lollies and sweetened condensed milk. The mixture is formed into a log, rolled in coconut, and chilled until firm. Once sliced, the colorful pieces of candy inside create a mosaic-like appearance that makes each slice both visually fun and delicious to eat.
Why It’s So Popular
This cake is popular not just because of how easy it is to make, but also because of its bright, playful look and sweet flavor. It doesn’t require baking, special tools, or complicated steps making it accessible for bakers of all levels. It’s also perfect for sharing at birthday parties, school events, or family gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Core Ingredients for Lolly Cake
To make an authentic lolly cake, you’ll need only a handful of common ingredients:
- 250g malt biscuits (such as Griffins Malt Biscuits or any plain tea biscuit)
- 180g fruit puff lollies (fruit-flavored, soft candy similar to marshmallows)
- 100g butter (unsalted is preferred)
- 1/2 can sweetened condensed milk (around 200g)
- Desiccated coconut (for rolling)
Ingredient Substitutions
If you can’t find some of the traditional ingredients, here are a few alternatives:
- Use digestive biscuits or graham crackers if malt biscuits are unavailable.
- Soft, fruit-flavored marshmallows can replace fruit puffs.
- Vegan condensed milk and plant-based butter can be used for a dairy-free version.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Crush the Biscuits
Place the malt biscuits into a plastic bag or food processor and crush them into small chunks. You want a combination of fine crumbs and small biscuit pieces for the best texture.
Step 2: Chop the Lollies
Cut the fruit puffs or marshmallows into smaller chunks using scissors or a sharp knife. The pieces should be large enough to create colorful patches in the final cake, but not so big that they dominate every bite.
Step 3: Melt the Butter and Mix with Condensed Milk
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, stir in the condensed milk until fully combined. Remove from the heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly before using it in the next step.
Step 4: Combine Everything
In a large bowl, mix the crushed biscuits and chopped lollies together. Pour the butter and condensed milk mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated and starts to stick together.
Step 5: Shape the Cake
Transfer the mixture onto a sheet of wax paper or plastic wrap. Use your hands to shape it into a firm log about 2025cm long. Roll it gently to create a smooth and even shape.
Step 6: Roll in Coconut
Spread desiccated coconut onto a clean surface or plate. Roll the lolly cake log in the coconut until it is completely coated. Press lightly so the coconut sticks to the surface of the cake.
Step 7: Chill and Slice
Wrap the cake log in cling film and place it in the refrigerator for at least 23 hours, or until firm. Once chilled, slice into pieces about 12cm thick and serve.
Tips for Perfect Lolly Cake
Use Soft Candies
The key to a great lolly cake is using soft, chewy candies. Hard lollies won’t blend well with the biscuit mixture and can make the cake difficult to slice. Look for marshmallow-style fruit puffs or jelly lollies that are easy to cut and chew.
Don’t Overheat the Butter Mixture
When melting the butter and mixing in the condensed milk, use low heat and avoid boiling. High heat can separate the mixture or create a greasy texture in the final cake.
Chill Thoroughly
Allowing the cake to chill for several hours ensures clean slices and a firm texture. If you’re short on time, place it in the freezer for 3045 minutes instead, but monitor closely to avoid freezing solid.
Serving and Storage
How to Serve
Lolly cake is best served cold, sliced into small rounds. It’s a hit at children’s parties and casual events, but it also makes a delightful addition to afternoon tea or dessert platters. Because it’s sweet and rich, smaller servings are often enough to satisfy.
How to Store
Store lolly cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It can also be frozen for up to one month. To freeze, wrap the whole log or individual slices in plastic wrap and place in a sealed container. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Variations and Customizations
Chocolate Lolly Cake
Add a couple of tablespoons of cocoa powder to the biscuit mix for a chocolatey twist. You can also drizzle melted chocolate over the top before chilling for a more decadent version.
Nutty Lolly Cake
Fold in some chopped nuts such as almonds or cashews for added crunch and flavor. Be sure to check for allergies if serving to a group.
Vegan Lolly Cake
Use vegan biscuits, plant-based butter, and dairy-free condensed milk. Make sure the lollies you choose are gelatin-free and suitable for vegan diets.
Gluten-Free Version
Choose gluten-free biscuits and double-check that your lollies are also gluten-free. This makes the cake accessible for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make lolly cake without coconut?
Yes, if you don’t like coconut, you can leave it out. Simply chill the log without rolling it in anything, or use finely chopped nuts or crushed biscuits as an alternative coating.
Why is my lolly cake falling apart?
If your mixture is too dry, it may not hold together. Try adding a bit more condensed milk to help bind it. Make sure the cake is well chilled before slicing to prevent crumbling.
What lollies are best for lolly cake?
Fruit puffs or soft, chewy marshmallow-style candies work best. Avoid hard lollies or candies with coatings that won’t blend well into the cake.
This easy lolly cake recipe is a quick, fun, and visually stunning dessert that requires no baking and only a few basic ingredients. Whether you’re revisiting a favorite childhood treat or introducing someone new to a New Zealand classic, lolly cake is sure to leave a lasting impression. With endless customization options and a guaranteed crowd-pleasing result, it’s no wonder this colorful confection continues to be a staple in Kiwi kitchens and celebrations.