Irresistible Simnel Cake Recipe for Your Easter Celebration

It’s time to talk about simnel cake, a delightful treat that brings together the sweetness of fruitcake and the elegance of Easter celebrations. Imagine biting into a slice of rich, moist cake layered with marzipan and adorned with pretty little decorations – it’s like a party in your mouth that even your taste buds will RSVP to! cranberry upside down bundt cake.

Every spring, I can’t help but reminisce about my grandmother’s kitchen filled with the warm, inviting aromas of spices and sweet fruits while she baked her famous simnel cake. It was a family tradition to gather around the table, eagerly slicing into this festive cake as we shared laughter and stories. festive wreath cupcakes The anticipation of the first bite still makes my heart flutter with excitement.

I remember the joy on my family’s faces when they tasted it for the first time; their smiles said it all!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Mixed Dried Fruit: A mix of raisins, sultanas, and currants adds sweetness; ensure they’re plump for maximum flavor.
• Marzipan: Use high-quality marzipan for that sweet almond flavor; it’s essential for the classic look and taste.
• Unsalted Butter: Choose room temperature butter for easier mixing; it helps create that tender crumb texture. salted caramel apple cheesecake.
• Brown Sugar: Dark brown sugar adds richness and depth; light brown works too if that’s what you have on hand.
• Ground Almonds: These add moisture and nuttiness; they also make this cake extra special.
• Eggs: Fresh eggs bind everything together; go for free-range if possible for better quality.
• Baking Powder: Essential for leavening; make sure it’s fresh for a perfect rise.
• Spices (Cinnamon & Nutmeg): These warm spices elevate the flavors; don’t skip them!
• Lemon Zest: A hint of citrus brightness balances out the sweetness beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

The Preparation Phase: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease a round 8-inch cake pan well. Line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Combine your mixed dried fruits in a bowl with some flour so they don’t sink to the bottom while baking. This little trick keeps them evenly distributed throughout the cake.

In another large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s transformed into a pale creamy mixture that smells heavenly.

Add in your eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Toss in ground almonds, lemon zest, cinnamon, nutmeg, and baking powder next. Mix until everything is combined into a thick batter.

Fold in your floured mixed fruits gently to maintain their shape and keep that wonderful texture intact.

The Baking Phase: Pour half of your batter into the prepared cake pan. Roll out half of your marzipan into a disk slightly smaller than your pan’s diameter. Place this on top of your batter gently.

Spoon the remaining batter over the marzipan layer, ensuring an even distribution across the top. Smooth it out carefully, then pop it into your preheated oven.

Bake for 1 hour or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell like heaven during those crucial minutes!

Once done, allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

The Decorating Phase: Once cooled down completely, roll out another disk of marzipan and cover the top evenly. You can use leftover marzipan to shape little decorations if you’re feeling crafty.

For an extra touch, you can lightly toast the top under a broiler for just a minute or two – keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn! This creates that lovely golden color along with an irresistible aroma.

As you slice into this beauty at Easter gatherings or family get-togethers, prepare yourself for compliments galore! Each bite will take you back to those cherished memories while creating new ones with every gathering around your table again.

And there you have it: simnel cake – where tradition meets flavor in every delightful bite! Enjoy making this recipe as much as I do! delicious gingerbread pudding cake.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing the fruit mixture, letting it soak while you make the batter. Bake the cake at 325°F for about 2 hours, ensuring it’s perfectly moist.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out some dried fruits for your favorites—like adding cranberries or experimenting with nuts. A splash of orange zest can also brighten the flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store the simnel cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Reheat slices gently in the microwave for a cozy treat.

My first attempt at making simnel cake was a colorful disaster! Friends adored its charm despite my kitchen chaos, turning it into a sweet memory rather than just dessert. For more inspiration, check out this orange custard squares recipe recipe.

FAQ

What is simnel cake made of?

Simnel cake typically contains dried fruits, marzipan, and spices like nutmeg and cinnamon.

Can I freeze simnel cake?

Yes, you can freeze simnel cake; wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.

How do I know when simnel cake is done?

Insert a skewer in the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready!

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📖 Recipe Card

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Simnel Cake

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• Author: Mia Hanry
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the rich and moist layers of simnel cake, a delightful blend of spiced fruits and sweet marzipan that’s perfect for Easter gatherings. This traditional treat brings back cherished memories while creating new ones with each slice. With its stunning appearance and harmonious flavors, simnel cake is sure to impress your family and friends.

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Ingredients

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• 2 cups mixed dried fruit (raisins, sultanas, currants)
• 1 cup marzipan
• 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 1 cup dark brown sugar
• 1 cup ground almonds
• 4 large eggs (free-range)
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• Zest of 1 lemon

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and line an 8-inch round cake pan.
2. Toss mixed dried fruit in a bit of flour to prevent sinking.
3. In a bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Stir in ground almonds, lemon zest, cinnamon, nutmeg, and baking powder until combined.
5. Gently fold in floured fruit mixture.
6. Pour half the batter into the prepared pan; place half the marzipan on top. Spoon remaining batter over marzipan and smooth out.
7. Bake for about 1 hour or until a skewer inserted comes out clean. Cool before transferring to a wire rack.
8. Once cooled, cover with another layer of marzipan and toast lightly under the broiler if desired.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Traditional

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 30g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 70mg