If you’re looking to add a touch of traditional charm and comforting flavor to your baking repertoire, the Simnel Cake Recipe is an absolute must-try. This classic British cake, rich with fragrant dried fruits and spices, is crowned with a layer of luscious marzipan that melts into sweetness with each bite. Perfectly moist, warmly spiced, and steeped in history, this Simnel Cake Recipe makes an unforgettable centerpiece for festive occasions or a cozy afternoon tea. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just craving something special, this cake brings a delightful blend of texture, taste, and a hint of citrus zing that always impresses.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Simnel Cake Recipe plays an essential role, from providing depth of flavor to creating that perfect moist crumb and tender texture you’ll adore. Let’s dive into the simple yet magic-making ingredients you’ll gather.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure necessary for a light but sturdy cake.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture, creating a tender crumb.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake while helping to achieve a beautifully fluffy texture.
- 2 cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, sultanas): Imparts natural sweetness and a lovely chewy contrast.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: A warm spice that partners beautifully with the dried fruit.
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg: Adds subtle, fragrant depth to the spice mix.
- 4 oz marzipan, rolled out: The star topping that brings a silky almond sweetness and elegant finish.
- 4 large eggs, room temperature: Provides structure and binds everything perfectly.
- 2 tsp baking powder: Gives the cake a gentle lift and airy texture.
- Zest of 1 lemon: Brightens the cake with fresh citrus notes.
- Zest of 1 orange: Complements the lemon zest with a sweet, vibrant aroma.
- 1/4 cup whole milk: Ensures moistness and smooth batter consistency.
How to Make Simnel Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grease and line an 8-inch round cake pan. Proper preparation at this stage means your cake will bake evenly and come out effortlessly when done.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together. Spend about 5 minutes whipping it until the mixture looks light, fluffy, and beautifully aerated. This step is crucial for that tender crumb and helps your cake rise wonderfully.
Step 3: Add Eggs, Zests, and Spices
Now, beat the eggs in one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Along with the eggs, add your lemon and orange zest plus the ground cinnamon and nutmeg. This infuses the batter with that inviting warm aroma and zesty brightness that defines the Simnel Cake.
Step 4: Fold in Flour, Baking Powder, and Dried Fruits
Gently fold the flour mixed with baking powder into your wet ingredients. Be careful to maintain the airiness you created in the creaming step. Then, stir in the mixed dried fruits, ensuring they’re evenly distributed to sweeten every bite.
Step 5: Layer Batter and Marzipan
Pour half the cake batter into your prepared pan, smoothing it out gently. Next, roll out the marzipan until it’s thin and evenly spread, then place it carefully right on top of the first layer of batter. Finally, pour the remaining batter over the marzipan, sealing it within the cake layers.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Place your cake in the oven and bake for approximately 1 hour, but start checking at 55 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the cake’s center should come out clean when it’s perfectly done. Let the cake cool completely in the pan before moving on to decorating or serving.
How to Serve Simnel Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Traditionally, Simnel Cake is topped with a layer of toasted marzipan balls, but you can also dust it lightly with powdered sugar or drizzle a thin glaze for extra sweetness and shine. Fresh citrus zest or edible flowers add a charming, decorative touch.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of strong, freshly brewed tea or a dollop of clotted cream for a rich contrast. For a festive touch, serve alongside spiced mulled wine or a light fruit compote to enhance the fruity flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice this Simnel Cake Recipe into neat wedges and arrange them on a rustic wooden board surrounded by extra marzipan or citrus slices for an inviting display. For a modern twist, serve individual mini portions topped with whipped mascarpone and a sprinkle of toasted almonds for texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, keep your Simnel Cake wrapped tightly in cling film or an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. Stored this way, it will stay moist and flavorful for up to 4 days, making it a perfect make-ahead treat.
Freezing
This cake freezes beautifully if wrapped well in plastic wrap and placed inside a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving.
Reheating
If you prefer your Simnel Cake slightly warm, pop slices in a low oven (about 300°F/150°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave briefly in 20-second intervals. Warmed, the marzipan softens delightfully, and the cake’s fruity aroma is even more inviting.
FAQs
What is the significance of marzipan in Simnel Cake?
Marzipan is a traditional almond paste topping that adds sweetness and a unique texture to Simnel Cake. It’s often seen as a symbol of festivity and indulgence, bringing that special touch to this classic dessert.
Can I use other dried fruits in the Simnel Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! While raisins, currants, and sultanas are classic, feel free to add chopped dried apricots, cherries, or dates to suit your taste—just keep the quantity balanced to maintain the cake’s moist texture.
Is Simnel Cake only for Easter?
Though traditionally associated with Easter celebrations, Simnel Cake’s rich flavor and comforting spices make it perfect for any time you want a heartwarming slice of something special.
How do I prevent the marzipan from drying out?
Keep marzipan covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. If using it as a layer inside the cake, it remains moist as it bakes sealed between the batter, protecting it beautifully.
Can I make the Simnel Cake Recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend and ensuring your baking powder is gluten-free, you can enjoy this delicious cake without compromising on taste.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Simnel Cake Recipe highly enough if you want to experience the warmth and tradition of a timeless British classic in your own kitchen. Its perfectly balanced spices, fruity richness, and that heavenly marzipan layer make it a real crowd-pleaser. Give it a try—you’ll find it’s not just a cake but a celebration in every slice!
Print
Simnel Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A traditional British Simnel Cake, rich with mixed dried fruits, warm spices, and a layer of sweet marzipan, perfect for festive occasions. This moist and flavorful fruit cake is baked to golden perfection and topped with a delightful marzipan layer.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 2 cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, sultanas)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 orange
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1/4 cup whole milk
Other
- 4 oz marzipan, rolled out
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, usually about 5 minutes using an electric mixer or by hand.
- Add Eggs and Zests: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the lemon and orange zest along with the ground cinnamon and nutmeg for aromatic warmth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually fold in the flour thoroughly mixed with baking powder. After the flour mixture, gently fold in the mixed dried fruits to evenly distribute them throughout the batter.
- Layer Batter and Marzipan: Pour half of the batter into the prepared cake pan. Roll out the marzipan into a flat disk and place it carefully over the batter layer in the pan. Then pour the remaining batter on top, covering the marzipan layer.
- Bake Cake: Bake the cake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely before decorating or serving.
Notes
- Ensure eggs are at room temperature to achieve a smooth batter.
- Use a toothpick test to check doneness; it should come out clean without wet batter.
- If desired, decorate the top of the cake with additional marzipan or glaze after it has cooled.
- For enhanced flavor, soak the dried fruits in brandy or orange juice a day before baking.
