Like a hidden gem in a spring garden, the Easter Simnel Cake has a history as rich as its flavor. I’ve always found joy in baking traditions that bring families together, and this cake, with its marzipan layers and fruity depth, is no exception. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of heritage and creativity. Curious how to make this showstopper for your Easter table? Let’s get started.
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Easter Simnel Cake is a delightful blend of tradition and flavor, perfect for celebrating the season. Its rich marzipan layers and fruity cake base make it a standout dessert everyone will enjoy.
- Rich Flavor Profile: Combines dried fruits, spices, and marzipan for a decadent taste.
- Easter Tradition: A classic British treat that honors the holiday with its symbolic 11 marzipan balls.
- Easy to Customize: Adapt the recipe with your favorite fruits or spices for a personal touch.
Recipe
Easter Simnel Cake is a traditional British fruitcake often enjoyed during the Easter season. It is distinguished by its layers of marzipan and the 11 marzipan balls on top, symbolizing the 12 apostles minus Judas. This rich and festive cake is perfect for celebrating the holiday.
Ingredients:
- 225g unsalted butter, softened
- 225g light brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 225g self-raising flour
- 100g ground almonds
- 1 tsp mixed spice
- 500g mixed dried fruit (raisins, currants, sultanas, and candied peel)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 500g marzipan
- 2 tbsp apricot jam
- 1 egg, beaten (for glazing)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 150°C (300°F). Grease and line an 8-inch round cake tin.
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually beat in the eggs, adding a little flour if the mixture curdles.
- Fold in the remaining flour, ground almonds, mixed spice, dried fruit, and lemon zest until well combined.
- Roll out one-third of the marzipan to fit the size of the cake tin.
- Spoon half of the cake mixture into the tin, then place the marzipan circle on top. Add the remaining cake mixture.
- Bake for 2 to 2½ hours, or until a skewer inserted into the center 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 another third of the marzipan to cover the cake.
- Divide the remaining marzipan into 11 equal pieces and shape into balls. Arrange them around the edge of the cake.
- Brush the marzipan with beaten egg and place under a hot grill for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
Notes:
- Store the cake in an airtight container for up to a week.
- For a deeper flavor, make the cake a few days in advance and wrap it in parchment paper.
Time:
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 2½ hours
Serving: 12
Calories: Approximately 450 per slice
Cuisine: British
Equipment
To make a traditional Easter Simnel Cake, having the right equipment guarantees a smooth baking process. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 8-inch round cake tin
- Baking parchment or greaseproof paper
- Mixing bowls (large and medium)
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Rolling pin (for marzipan)
- Pastry brush
- Cooling rack
- Sharp knife (for trimming marzipan)
Nutrition
Simnel cake is a traditional Easter treat that combines rich flavors with a variety of nutritious ingredients. This fruitcake is packed with dried fruits, almonds, and spices, offering a balance of taste and health benefits.
- High in fiber from dried fruits like raisins, currants, and apricots.
- Provides healthy fats and protein from almonds and marzipan.
- Contains essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E and magnesium.
- Moderate in calories, making it a satisfying yet indulgent dessert.
- Gluten-free options available for those with dietary restrictions.
What to Serve With This Recipe
I’d love to share some fresh ideas for serving this Easter Simnel Cake, like pairing it with a warm cup of tea or a glass of sweet dessert wine. A slice of sharp cheddar cheese or a side of fresh berries can add a nice balance to the rich flavors. Don’t forget a dollop of whipped cream for that extra touch of indulgence!
Tea Pairings
When I’m enjoying a slice of Simnel cake, I find that it pairs perfectly with a cup of tea that complements its rich, fruity flavors. I love exploring different tea types to match its flavor profiles. A classic Earl Grey adds a citrusy twist, while a smooth Darjeeling enhances its sweetness. For something cozy, a spiced chai brings warmth, making each bite even more delightful.
Wine Suggestions
Though I’m a big fan of tea with Simnel cake, I’ve also discovered that the right wine can take it to a whole new level. For a dessert pairing, I love a light red wine like a Pinot Noir—it complements the cake’s fruity flavors without overpowering them. If you’re feeling adventurous, a sweet Moscato or a rich Port also works wonders, adding a luxurious touch to every bite.
Cheese Selection
Pairing cheese with Simnel cake might sound a little unusual, but trust me, it’s a combo worth trying. I’ve found that mild cheese varieties like creamy Brie or tangy goat cheese work beautifully with the cake’s spiced sweetness. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a sharp cheddar for a bolder cheese pairing. The contrast between the rich cheese and the fruity cake is unexpectedly delightful—give it a go!
Fresh Fruit Sides
If you’re looking to brighten up your Simnel cake experience, adding fresh fruit on the side is a fantastic idea. I love pairing it with seasonal fruits like juicy strawberries, tangy oranges, or sweet cherries for a burst of flavor. These fruit pairings not only complement the cake’s richness but also add a revitalizing touch. Plus, they’re simple to prepare and make the whole meal feel extra special.
Whipped Cream Accompaniment
While fresh fruit adds a rejuvenating twist to Simnel cake, sometimes I’m in the mood for something a little creamier. Whipped cream benefits make it a perfect pairing—light, fluffy, and just sweet enough to balance the cake’s richness. I love serving suggestions like dolloping it generously on slices or adding a drizzle of honey for extra flavor. It’s simple, indulgent, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Gluten-Free Flour for This Recipe?
I’ve used gluten-free flour for recipes before, and it works well with some tweaks for texture. Flour alternatives like almond or rice flour often need adjustments, but gluten-free substitutions can still yield great results if balanced right.
How Long Does the Cake Stay Fresh?
Like a flower wilting without water, this cake loses its freshness quick. I keep it fresh by sealing it tight as a drum with plastic wrap. My storing methods? A cool, airtight spot works best.
Can I Substitute Marzipan With Almond Paste?
I’d say you can substitute marzipan with almond paste, but they’re not identical. Almond paste flavors are richer and less sweet, so it’ll change the taste. If you’re exploring marzipan alternatives, almond paste works in a pinch.
Is It Possible to Make This Cake Vegan?
I’m sure I can make this cake vegan by using vegan substitutes. Instead of eggs, I’ll try egg alternatives like flaxseed or applesauce. I’ll also swap butter for plant-based margarine and use dairy-free options for marzipan.
Can I Freeze the Simnel Cake for Later?
I once kept a birthday cake in the freezer for weeks, and it tasted fresh as the day I baked it. Yes, you can freeze the Simnel cake for later without losing flavor or texture. Use wrapping and freezing tips to prevent freezer burn, then follow cake thawing by refrigerating it overnight before serving.
