Simnel Cake Recipe

If you’ve ever wanted to dive into a rich, fruity, and lovingly layered traditional treat, this Simnel Cake Recipe is your golden ticket. Bursting with zesty citrus, warm spices, and the sweet surprise of marzipan right in the middle, this cake is the perfect centerpiece for any festive gathering or cozy afternoon tea. It blends simple ingredients into a show-stopping cake that feels both nostalgic and utterly indulgent, making every bite a journey through flavor and texture you’ll adore.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started with this Simnel Cake Recipe is delightfully straightforward. Each ingredient is chosen to build that classic balance between fruitiness, spice, and creamy richness, ensuring your cake is moist, flavorful, and stunningly textured.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of your cake, providing structure and a tender crumb.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and keeps the cake moist.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens perfectly and helps with the tender crumb.
• 2 cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, sultanas): The heart of the cake’s flavor with bursts of natural sweetness.
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Infuses a warm, comforting spice note.
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg: Offers a gentle, aromatic depth to the spices.
• 4 oz marzipan, rolled out: The delightful, nutty core layer that’s the signature twist of this cake.
• 4 large eggs, room temperature: Bind everything beautifully and add moisture.
• 2 tsp baking powder: Helps your cake rise to perfection.
• Zest of 1 lemon: Brightens and balances the sweetness with fresh citrus notes.
• Zest of 1 orange: Adds a fragrant, fruity lift to the flavor profile.
• 1/4 cup whole milk: Moistens the batter and smooths the texture.

How to Make Simnel Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch round cake pan, then line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure your cake lifts out effortlessly.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color—this should take about 5 minutes with a hand or stand mixer. This step is key for creating that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Zest

Now, beat in the eggs one at a time. Be sure they’re room temperature for a smooth mixture. As you combine the eggs, add the lemon and orange zest together with the cinnamon and nutmeg, so the citrus oils and spices evenly spread through the batter.

Step 4: Fold in Flour and Fruits

In a separate bowl, mix the flour and baking powder, then gradually fold this dry mixture into your wet batter. Lastly, fold in your mixed dried fruits, making sure they’re well-distributed so every slice has bursts of chewy sweetness.

Step 5: Layer with Marzipan

Pour half the batter into your prepared pan and smooth it out. Roll your marzipan to a flat circle the size of your pan, then place it gently on top of this first batter layer. Carefully spread the remaining batter over the marzipan, sealing it within the cake.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Bake your beautiful cake for about 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, let the cake cool completely in the pan before turning it out and preparing to decorate or serve.

How to Serve Simnel Cake Recipe

Garnishes

A classic way to serve your Simnel Cake Recipe is by topping it with a light dusting of powdered sugar or extra rolled marzipan balls arranged artistically on top. These add a charming look and emphasize the nutty flavor within.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a spread of clotted cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. If you want a lighter contrast, fresh berries or a small cup of tea bring out the cake’s spices perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not slice your cake into more delicate, bite-sized pieces and display them on a charming cake stand at a party? You can also plate individual servings with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of toasted almonds for a creative twist that impresses guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Simnel Cake Recipe will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days when wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or kept in an airtight container at room temperature, preserving its moist texture and rich flavors.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it well in aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

For that freshly-baked feel, warm your cake slices gently in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F or 150°C) for 10 minutes. This brings back the softness and lets the aromas bloom again.

FAQs

Can I use other dried fruits for the Simnel Cake Recipe?

Absolutely! While traditional recipes often call for raisins, currants, and sultanas, you can experiment by adding chopped dried apricots, cherries, or cranberries to add your personal touch.

Is it necessary to use marzipan in Simnel Cake?

Marzipan is the signature feature of a Simnel Cake, creating that special hidden layer with a lovely almond flavor. Omitting it means you’re missing a key element of the cake’s identity, so I highly recommend including it.

Can I prepare the batter in advance?

You can mix the batter a few hours ahead and refrigerate it, but add the fruit and cinnamon spices just before baking to keep the flavors fresh and the texture perfect.

What is the best way to decorate a Simnel Cake?

Traditionally, it’s decorated with 11 marzipan balls on top representing the apostles (minus Judas), but a simple dusting of powdered sugar or icing also works beautifully and is easier if you’re short on time.

Is Simnel Cake gluten-free friendly?

The classic recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. However, you can substitute a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking—just be sure it has baking powder included or add your own to ensure rise and texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about making and sharing this Simnel Cake Recipe that goes beyond just baking—it’s about tradition, flavor, and joy all rolled into one gorgeous package. I encourage you to give it a try, savor every bite, and perhaps start a new family favorite in your kitchen today.

Simnel Cake Recipe

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• Author: admin
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x

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Description

A traditional British Simnel Cake, perfect for festive occasions, featuring a rich blend of dried fruits and warm spices with a distinctive layer of sweet marzipan. This moist and flavorful fruitcake is enhanced with lemon and orange zest, providing a delicious citrus aroma, baked to golden perfection.

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Ingredients

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Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

Wet Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Zest of 1 orange

Additional Ingredients

• 2 cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, sultanas)
• 4 oz marzipan, rolled out

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Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure an easy release of the cake.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process should take about 5 minutes and helps to incorporate air for a lighter texture in the cake.
3. Add Eggs and Zests: Beat in the eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Along with the eggs, add the lemon and orange zest as well as the ground cinnamon and nutmeg for a fragrant, spicy flavor.
4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Fruits: Gradually fold in the all-purpose flour combined with baking powder, mixing carefully to avoid overworking the batter. Then fold in the mixed dried fruits, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
5. Assemble Cake with Marzipan Layer: Pour half of the batter into the prepared cake pan to form the base layer. Roll the marzipan out flat and gently place it over the batter. Then pour the remaining batter over the marzipan, covering it completely.
6. Bake the Cake: Bake the assembled cake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely before decorating or serving.

Notes

• Ensure the eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and batter consistency.
• Marzipan can be toasted lightly after baking, if desired, for additional flavor and texture.
• The cake can be stored in an airtight container for up to one week or frozen for longer storage.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and confirm baking powder is gluten-free.
• Feel free to soak the dried fruits in some brandy or orange juice overnight for a moister and richer flavor.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Category: Baking
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: British