Irresistible Easter Simnel Cake Recipe for Festive Joy

 

As the sun begins to warm the Earth and flowers start to bloom, I can’t help but feel a certain magic in the air. It’s Easter season, a time for renewal, family gatherings, and, most importantly, indulging in delicious treats! Simnel cake has been a cherished part of my Easter celebrations for as long as I can remember. I recall my grandmother proudly presenting her beautifully decorated Simnel cake, with its layers of fruity goodness and that irresistible marzipan topping, making every family gathering feel special.

Simnel cake is not just a dessert; it embodies the joy of Easter and the warmth of shared memories. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and bake this Delightful Easter Simnel Cake together, shall we? Trust me; your loved ones will adore it too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for celebrating Easter with family and friends.
• Delightfully packed with flavors from dried fruits and spices.
• Beautifully decorated, making it a centerpiece for your holiday table.
• Can be made ahead and tastes even better after a couple of days.
• Easy to customize with your favorite fruits and nuts.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful Easter Simnel Cake:

• 225g unsalted butter, softened – Give it a good mix for that fluffy texture.
• 225g brown sugar – For that warm, caramel-like sweetness.
• 4 large eggs – They’ll bind everything beautifully.
• 225g all-purpose flour – The foundation of your cake.
• 225g mixed dried fruits (such as raisins, currants, and sultanas) – Add those festive vibes!
• 50g chopped mixed peel – A bit of tang for balance.
• 100g ground almonds – For a lovely nutty flavor and richness.
• 1 tsp baking powder – It helps the cake rise.
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon – A warm spice that screams Easter.
• 1 tsp ground nutmeg – Just a hint for earthiness.
• For the marzipan:
• 250g marzipan – Sweet and so delicious.
• 1 egg yolk – For brushing on the edges.
• For decoration:
• 12 mini eggs or 11 marzipan balls – Because it’s not a Simnel cake without these lovely touches!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get baking! Follow these easy steps to create your own Simnel cake:

1. Preheat your oven: First things first, preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). You want it nice and warm for that lovely cake.
2. Prepare your cake tin: Grease a 20cm round cake tin and line the bottom with parchment paper. This is key to ensuring your cake releases beautifully.
3. Mix the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks pale and dreamy!
4. Add the eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Don’t worry if it looks a bit curdled; it’ll come together in the next step.
5. Combine dry ingredients: Sift the flour, baking powder, and spices into the mixture. Gently fold it in using a spatula. Remember, don’t overmix or the cake will be dense!
6. Stir in the fruits: Fold in the dried fruits, mixed peel, and ground almonds. This step is where the magic happens – the fruits will infuse the cake with flavor and texture.
7. Transfer to the tin: Pour the cake batter into the prepared tin and smooth the top with a spatula.
8. Bake to perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 30 minutes. It’s done when a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell divine!
9. Cool down: Once it’s done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Prepare the marzipan layer: Once the cake is completely cool, roll out about 200g of marzipan to create a circle slightly larger than the top of the cake.
11. Assemble: Brush the top of the cake with lightly beaten egg yolk and carefully place the marzipan on top. Press it gently to stick.
12. Decorate: Roll the remaining marzipan into 11 small balls to represent the apostles. Place these around the edge of the cake. Now for the fun part: use a blowtorch or hot grill to lightly toast the marzipan to get that beautiful golden color. Just keep an eye on it!
13. Make it shine: Finally, place your mini eggs or extra marzipan balls in the center for that cute finishing touch.

Pro Tips & Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many delightful variations you can try with your Simnel cake:

• Add spices: Experiment with cardamom or ginger for a different flavor profile.
• Make it boozy: Soak the dried fruits in a splash of brandy or orange juice overnight for a punch of flavor.
• Nut swaps: Use pecans or walnuts instead of almonds if you prefer.
• Diet-friendly: If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

Serving Suggestions

Your Delightful Easter Simnel Cake is a showstopper on its own, but here are a few ways I love to serve it:

• With a cup of freshly brewed tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
• Alongside a dollop of clotted cream – divine!
• Pair it with a light, fruity salad to balance the sweetness.
• Enjoy it as a delightful dessert after a hearty Easter lunch.

Just imagine slicing into that beautifully baked cake, unveiling the golden layers of marzipan and the surprise of fruits inside. It’s a sensory delight that captures the spirit of Easter perfectly!

Storage Tips

Now, let’s talk about keeping that scrumptious cake fresh:

• Refrigerating: Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. It should last for up to two weeks.
• Freezing: To freeze, wrap the cake in two layers of plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It freezes beautifully for up to three months. Just remember to let it thaw in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
• Reheating: If you prefer it warm, pop individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until warm. Enjoy that lovely marzipan layer again!

FAQs

Can I make Simnel Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, it often tastes better if you make it a few days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container, and it’ll be ready to go for Easter!

What can I substitute for marzipan?

If you’re not a fan of marzipan, you can use fondant or simply skip the topping altogether. Consider adding a layer of frosting if you want a touch of sweetness without the almond flavor.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Wrap any leftover cake well in plastic wrap and keep it in the fridge. It remains moist and delicious for several days!

Conclusion

There you have it! Your own Delightful Easter Simnel Cake, ready to be shared with loved ones. I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Please drop a comment below or snap a photo and share it with me on social media. Baking is all about joy, love, and making memories, especially during this festive time. So, let’s keep that spirit alive together! Happy baking and happy Easter!