I've always loved baking for Easter, and Simnel Cake is one of those treats that feels special and meaningful. It's packed with dried fruits, warm spices, and a layer of marzipan that just melts in your mouth. The marzipan balls on top are my favorite part—each one represents an apostle, which adds a neat story to the cake. Want to know how to make this festive dessert part of your tradition? 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 your festive celebrations. It's rich, fruity, and topped with marzipan layers, making it a seasonal favorite.
- The cake is packed with dried fruits and warm spices, offering a comforting taste.
- The marzipan layers add a sweet, almondy texture that complements the cake perfectly.
- It's a show-stopping centerpiece, ideal for sharing with family and friends.
Recipe
A traditional British Easter treat, Simnel Cake is a rich fruit cake layered with marzipan and topped with 11 marzipan balls representing the apostles (excluding Judas). This indulgent dessert is perfect for celebrating the Easter season and is sure to impress with its festive presentation.
Ingredients:
- 200g unsalted butter, softened
- 200g light brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 200g self-raising flour
- 1 tsp mixed spice
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 100g ground almonds
- 200g mixed dried fruit (currants, sultanas, raisins)
- 100g candied peel
- 500g marzipan (divided into 150g, 200g, and 150g portions)
- 2 tbsp apricot jam
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 150°C (130°C fan) and grease a 20cm round cake tin.
- Cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time.
- Fold in the flour, spices, ground almonds, dried fruit, and candied peel until well combined.
- Roll out 150g of marzipan into a circle the size of the cake tin.
- Pour half the cake batter into the tin, then place the marzipan circle on top. Add the remaining batter and smooth the surface.
- Bake for 2.5 hours or until a skewer inserted comes out clean. Cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Once cooled, brush the top with warmed apricot jam. Roll out 200g of marzipan into a circle and place it on the cake. Pinch the edges to seal.
- Divide the remaining 150g of marzipan into 11 balls and arrange them around the edge of the cake. Brush with jam and lightly brown under a hot grill.
Notes:
- Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
- For a nut-free version, replace ground almonds with flour.
Time:
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours
Serving: 12
Calories: 450 per slice
Cuisine: British
Equipment
To prepare this traditional Easter Simnel Cake, gather the essential kitchen tools for a smooth baking process. Having the right equipment guarantees precision and ease in following the recipe.
- 9-inch round cake tin
- Non-stick baking parchment
- Mixing bowls (large and medium)
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Silicon or wooden spatula
- Rolling pin (for marzipan)
- Pastry brush (for glazing)
- Cooling rack (for even cooling)
- Sharp knife (for trimming and decorating)
Nutrition
Easter Simnel Cake is a delightful treat packed with nutritional benefits. This traditional fruitcake is rich in essential nutrients and provides energy for the day.
- Contains dried fruits like currants, raisins, and apricots, offering vitamins and fiber.
- Almond marzipan topping provides healthy fats and protein.
- Eggs and butter contribute to calcium and healthy fats.
- Spices like cinnamon and nutmeg boost antioxidants and digestion.
- Flour supplies carbohydrates for sustained energy. Additionally, incorporating seasonal ingredients like fresh fruits can further enhance the cake's nutritional profile.
What to Serve With This Recipe
I love pairing my Easter Simnel Cake with seasonal fruits like fresh berries or sliced mango for a light, invigorating touch. A cup of tea, like Earl Grey or chamomile, complements the cake's spiced flavor perfectly, adding a cozy vibe to the meal. For extra indulgence, I'll sometimes add a dollop of whipped cream, which balances the cake's richness beautifully. Additionally, serving this cake alongside a refreshing salad like the Strawberry Banana Cheesecake Salad(increasingly popular), enhances the overall flavor experience and adds a fruity contrast.
Classic Easter Desserts
While I've always loved the rich flavors of a Simnel cake, serving it with a few complementary desserts can make your Easter spread even more special. I like pairing it with warm spiced cider for a cozy touch and a bowl of chocolate eggs for a sweet surprise. These additions add variety, letting everyone enjoy their own little Easter treat while keeping the meal balanced.
Tea Pairing Suggestions
For a delightful pairing with Simnel cake**, I'd recommend a cup of Earl Grey tea—its citrusy bergamot notes complement the cake's fruity richness perfectly. If you prefer bolder tea flavors, try Assam for its malty depth. For brewing tips**, steep black teas for 3-5 minutes and avoid over-boiling water to preserve flavor. It's about finding what suits your taste—freedom in every sip!
Festive Beverage Options
When serving a Simnel cake, it's fun to think beyond tea and explore festive drink pairings that elevate the experience. I love crafting spring cocktails like a floral gin fizz or a zesty lemon spritz to complement the cake's sweetness. For a non-alcoholic twist, holiday mocktails such as a sparkling elderflower punch or a tangy citrus cooler feel just as celebratory and invigorating. Cheers to creativity!
Seasonal Fruit Accompaniments
Though Simnel cake is rich with its marzipan and dried fruits, I find it's even better when paired with fresh, seasonal fruits that brighten each bite. Spring berries, like strawberries or raspberries, add a burst of sweetness and color. Citrus fruits, such as sliced oranges or grapefruit, bring a zesty tang that balances the cake's richness. They're perfect for revitalizing your palate between bites.
Whipped Cream Addition
A dollop of whipped cream can totally transform your slice of Simnel cake, adding a light, creamy contrast to its dense, fruity texture. I love how the whipped consistency melts just enough to complement the flavors without overpowering them. Experiment with cream flavors—vanilla, almond, or even orange—to match the cake's richness. It's a simple touch, but it makes every bite feel indulgent and free.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the History Behind Easter Simnel Cake?
Did you know people have been baking celebratory cakes for over 2,000 years? I've learned its ancient origins trace back to Roman rituals, blending with medieval traditions to honor freedom, family, and the changing seasons.
Can I Use Different Dried Fruits in the Recipe?
I'd say you can absolutely experiment with fruit variations in the recipe. I've found ingredient substitutes like apricots, cranberries, or even cherries work well if you're not keen on traditional choices. It's your cake—make it yours!
How Long Does Simnel Cake Stay Fresh?
I'll let the cat out of the bag—simnel cake stays fresh for about a week if stored right. Keep it in an airtight container and it's got a solid shelf life, no strings attached. Storage tips? Room temp's fine, but wrap it snugly for freedom to savor longer.
Why Is Marzipan Used in Simnel Cake?
I think marzipan's used in simnel cake for its rich symbolism and tradition. It's not just about flavor; it represents creativity, indulgence, and celebration, adding a layer of meaning that feels both timeless and deeply personal.
Can I Make Simnel Cake Without Alcohol?
I believe in choices that suit my lifestyle, and I can create a simnel cake without alcohol. With non-alcoholic alternatives like fruit juice or flavored syrups, I'll embrace alcohol-free options while keeping the essence intact. Freedom's sweet.
