Simnel Cake

Try this traditional Easter Cake

Simnel cake is a rich fruitcake traditionally associated with Easter and its origins date back to medieval times. The cake is distinctive for its layers of marzipan, both inside and on top, as well as the 11 marzipan balls that adorn it, symbolising the 12 apostles minus Judas.

The name "simnel" is thought to derive from the Latin word simila, meaning fine flour, which reflects the cake’s high-quality ingredients. Over the centuries, the recipe has evolved, but it remains a delicious blend of dried fruits, spices, and almond marzipan. Simnel cake is often enjoyed during Lent and Easter Sunday, making it a festive centrepiece for spring gatherings.

Simnel Cake

Ingredients:

175g unsalted butter, softened

175g light brown sugar

4 medium eggs

175g self-raising flour

1 tsp mixed spice

350g mixed dried fruits (raisins, sultanas, currants, and chopped apricots)

50g glacé cherries, rinsed and chopped

Zest of 1 lemon

2 tbsp apricot jam

500g marzipan

1-2 tbsp icing sugar (for rolling)

1 egg yolk (for glazing)

Method:

Preheat your oven to 150°C (130°C fan)/Gas Mark 2. Grease and line a 20cm round cake tin.

In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, adding a little flour with each to prevent curdling.

Fold in the remaining flour, mixed spice, dried fruits, glacé cherries, and lemon zest until well combined.

Roll out one-third of the marzipan into a circle the size of the cake tin. Set aside.

Spoon half of the cake mixture into the tin and smooth the surface. Place the marzipan circle on top, then add the remaining cake mixture.

Bake for 2 to 2½ hours, or until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Brush the top of the cake with apricot jam. Roll out half of the remaining marzipan into a circle and place it on top of the cake.

Divide the rest of the marzipan into 11 equal pieces and roll into balls. Arrange them around the edge of the cake.

Brush the marzipan with beaten egg yolk and lightly brown under a hot grill or using a kitchen torch for a golden finish.

Simnel cake is a delightful Easter treat that combines the warmth of spices, the sweetness of fruit, and the richness of marzipan. Enjoy a slice with a cup of tea or as a dessert after your Easter dinner!

Image Credits: James Petts via commons.wikimedia.org, pixabay.com