Name: Delightful Simnel Cake Recipe for Every Celebration Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h 50 min
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1½ teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg; ½ teaspoon ground allspice; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup light brown sugar, packed; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ cup milk; 2 cups mixed dried fruit (raisins, currants, sultanas, chopped dried apricots); ½ cup chopped candied peel; 1 cup marzipan (divided into two ½-cup portions); ¼ cup chopped almonds; zest of 1 lemon; zest of 1 orange; 2 tablespoons apricot jam; 11 small marzipan balls for decoration

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Rich with tradition, fruit-studded charm, and a golden marzipan crown, this Delightful Simnel Cake Recipe for Every Celebration is a showstopper that captures the heart of festive baking. Whether you’re baking for Easter or bringing something special to a birthday or holiday feast, this classic British treat packs vibrant citrus, crunchy almonds, and fragrant spices into every comforting slice. With its soft layers, pops of chewy fruit, and signature marzipan balls, it’s an edible story that’s just as wonderful to make as it is to share.

Delightful Simnel Cake Recipe for Every Celebration Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Baking this cake is all about using humble yet impactful ingredients to create something extraordinary. Each component adds to the dance of taste, texture, and color that makes this dessert unforgettable—there’s nothing here that’s too fancy, just essentials with purpose!

All-purpose flour: The foundation for structure and a tender crumb.
Baking powder: Ensures a lovely, even rise throughout your bake.
Salt: A touch sharpens and balances all those sweet, rich flavors.
Ground cinnamon: Adds deep warmth and cozy aromatics.
Ground nutmeg: Brings gentle sweetness and fragrant spiciness.
Ground allspice: Enhances the fruit and adds complexity.
Unsalted butter: For richness and unbeatable flavor; should be softened for easy creaming.
Light brown sugar: Infuses the cake with moistness and subtle caramel notes.
Large eggs: Bind everything together and provide structure.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out the spices with mellow, sweet undertones.
Milk: Loosens the batter and ensures a soft crumb.
Mixed dried fruit: Raisins, currants, sultanas, apricots—each bite is chewy and bursting with sweetness.
Chopped candied peel: Bright citrus bits for color and tang.
Marzipan: Twice baked into the cake and used for its classic almond-sweet top.
Chopped almonds: For textural crunch and a subtle, nutty kick.
Zest of 1 lemon: Adds fresh, zingy brightness.
Zest of 1 orange: Lifts the flavors and pairs perfectly with the dried fruit.
Apricot jam: Used to give a sticky, glossy layer to help the marzipan adhere.
11 small marzipan balls: The classic finishing touch, representing the apostles (excluding Judas).

How to Make Delightful Simnel Cake Recipe for Every Celebration

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat

Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C) and lining an 8-inch round deep cake pan with parchment paper. This step might seem simple, but it’s key to easy cake removal and preventing any sticking or burning at the edges. You’ll be so glad for the extra few seconds this takes!

Step 2: Scented Spice Mix

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. This dry mixture is where the flavor layering begins, turning every bite into an aromatic delight that’s both nostalgic and inviting.

Step 3: Creaming Magic

Using a large mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and light brown sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and noticeably paler—about three minutes. This critical step traps air, helping your cake rise beautifully while melting together the sugar and fat for a luxuriously soft crumb.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

With your mixer running on low, beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract at the end. If your mixture looks a bit curdled, don’t worry—it’ll smooth out when you add the dry ingredients.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Mix in the milk gently. Then, in two or three batches, gradually add the dry spice-and-flour mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this helps keep the cake tender and soft.

Step 6: The Fruit and Nut Medley

With a spatula, gently fold in the mixed dried fruit, chopped candied peel, chopped almonds, and the zest of both the lemon and the orange. Every spoonful should feel as if you’re stirring in a little taste of celebration!

Step 7: Layer and Marzipan Surprise

Spoon half of the cake batter into your prepared pan and smooth the surface. Roll out half of the marzipan into an 8-inch circle (a little dusting of powdered sugar helps here) and lay it over the batter. It’s the signature surprise of this recipe—a sweet, melting stripe hidden in each wedge.

Step 8: Final Batter Layer

Carefully spoon the remaining batter over the marzipan layer, spreading it evenly to cover. This top layer will form a golden, domed crust that holds the cake’s splendid shape.

Step 9: Time to Bake

Place your cake in the center of the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours. Test with a skewer: it should come out clean when poked into the center. If the top is browning a bit quickly, cover loosely with foil for the last 30 minutes of baking.

Step 10: Cool and Glaze

Cool the cake in its pan for 10 minutes before turning it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Warm the apricot jam and brush it over the cooled cake—this not only creates a glossy finish but also helps the marzipan stick.

Step 11: Marzipan Top and Signature Balls

Roll out the remaining marzipan into another 8-inch circle and gently fit it on top of your cake. Shape the remaining marzipan into 11 small balls and arrange them around the edge. Slide the cake under a hot broiler for 1 to 2 minutes, just until the marzipan is lightly toasted and golden—watch closely, it colors fast!

How to Serve Delightful Simnel Cake Recipe for Every Celebration

Garnishes

This cake already boasts its iconic look, but a light dusting of powdered sugar or a few edible flowers scattered at the base will make it even more festive. If you want a little extra shine, brush the marzipan balls with a bit more apricot jam right before serving.

Side Dishes

Pair each slice with softly whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a dollop of thick Greek yogurt for a perfect balance. Hot tea or coffee alongside lets the fragrant spices shine. For something special, a splash of dessert wine or port complements the fruitiness of the cake.

Creative Ways to Present

For an event, pre-slice the cake and arrange wedges in a circle, fanning them slightly for an inviting display. Try pairing with tiny flags or cute handwritten labels if it’s part of a holiday buffet. Miniature versions (baked in muffin tins) also make charming party favors or unique gifts for loved ones.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container—it’ll keep on the counter for up to 5 days. In fact, waiting even a day or two can deepen the flavors, as the spices, fruit, and marzipan all mingle together over time.

Freezing

Simnel cake freezes very well! Slice the cake and wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then store in a ziptop freezer bag for up to 2 months. For best results, let slices come to room temperature before serving or warm gently as described below.

Reheating

If you prefer your cake with a little warmth, lightly toast slices in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 8 minutes, or microwave briefly on low. This brings out the spices and softens the marzipan, making each bite almost melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

FAQs

Can I make this Delightful Simnel Cake Recipe for Every Celebration gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free baking blend—just ensure it includes xanthan gum for the best result. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you’ll still achieve a beautifully tender and festive cake.

What’s the story behind the 11 marzipan balls?

The tradition comes straight from British Easter lore: the 11 balls symbolize the apostles, with Judas intentionally left out, and give the cake its instantly recognizable appearance—making it both a delicious and meaningful centerpiece.

Is there a way to make this cake without nuts?

Yes! Simply omit the chopped almonds and use a nut-free marzipan (there are good commercial options available). The cake will still be moist, fruity, and full of flavor.

Can I use different dried fruits in the Delightful Simnel Cake Recipe for Every Celebration?

Definitely—this recipe is very forgiving. Mix and match your favorites: try dried cherries, chopped dates, or dried cranberries for new textures and pops of flavor. Just keep the total quantity the same for balance.

How far ahead can I bake this cake?

You can make the Simnel cake up to a week in advance. Just keep it well wrapped and, in fact, it gets more flavorful as it rests, making it a wonderful choice for busy holiday preparations.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a memorable holiday centerpiece or simply crave something beautiful to share, treat yourself to the Delightful Simnel Cake Recipe for Every Celebration. Each step is an opportunity to celebrate flavor, family, and tradition—so preheat that oven and see why this classic cake is cherished by generations of bakers worldwide!

Delightful Simnel Cake Recipe for Every Celebration Recipe

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4.7 from 11 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Celebrate your next special occasion with this delightful Simnel Cake recipe. A traditional British fruit cake filled with dried fruit, almonds, and marzipan layers, this dessert is perfect for Easter or any festive gathering.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ teaspoon ground allspice

Wet Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup light brown sugar, packed
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup milk

Fruit and Nuts:

2 cups mixed dried fruit (raisins, currants, sultanas, chopped dried apricots)
½ cup chopped candied peel
1 cup marzipan (divided into two ½-cup portions)
¼ cup chopped almonds
zest of 1 lemon
zest of 1 orange

Decoration:

2 tablespoons apricot jam
11 small marzipan balls for decoration

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Instructions

Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C) and prepare cake pan.
Mix dry ingredients: Combine flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice in a bowl.
Cream butter and sugar: Beat butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla.
Combine wet and dry: Mix in milk and gradually add dry ingredients. Fold in fruits, peel, almonds, and zests.
Layer batter: Spoon half of batter into pan, layer with marzipan, then top with remaining batter.
Bake: Bake for 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours. Cool, then glaze with apricot jam and decorate with marzipan.