As the sweet scent of freshly baked simnel cake fills your kitchen, you can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia wash over you. This delightful treat, laden with layers of marzipan and dried fruits, takes you back to family gatherings where laughter echoed around the table and every slice was a reason to celebrate. quick chocolate dessert option.
Imagine cutting into that golden crust, revealing a moist interior dotted with cherries and currants. Each bite offers a perfect balance of sweetness and a hint of spice, making it not just a cake but an experience that warms your heart. fun party snack ideas Whether it’s Easter or just a sunny Sunday afternoon, simnel cake is the ultimate companion for any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Simnel cake is surprisingly easy to make, perfect for bakers of all levels
- With its rich flavors and stunning appearance, it’s bound to impress everyone at your gathering
- The versatility allows for various fruit options based on personal preference
- Plus, it adds a festive touch to any table setting with its beautiful marzipan finish
My first attempt at baking simnel cake was an epic adventure; my friends declared it “the best mistake ever” after I accidentally added way too much nutmeg. creative pudding dessert They still tease me about it!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Dried Fruits: A mix of sultanas and currants works beautifully here. Always go for plump ones for extra juiciness.
- Marzipan: Homemade or store-bought, marzipan is essential for that sweet almond flavor and decorative finish.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over the saltiness in your cake.
- Flour: All-purpose flour provides the structure needed without being too dense.
- Spices: Ground cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth and depth to the flavor profile; don’t skip them.
- Eggs: Fresh eggs bind everything together while adding richness; local farm eggs are best!
- Brown Sugar: Dark brown sugar brings moisture and caramel notes that elevate the cake’s flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). Greasing your 8-inch round cake pan ensures nothing sticks during baking.
Melt Butter and Sugar Together: In a mixing bowl, cream together soft butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Add Eggs One at a Time: Crack in each egg, mixing well after each addition until fully incorporated. The batter should look smooth and glossy.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gently fold in flour along with spices until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want our cake fluffy!
Add Dried Fruits and Marzipan Chunks: Toss in dried fruits along with chopped marzipan pieces. This will create delightful pockets of sweetness throughout the cake.
Layer Marzipan on Top before Baking: Pour half the batter into the prepared pan, then place a layer of marzipan on top before adding the remaining batter over it. This creates that lovely layered effect when sliced.
After about 1 hour in the oven, check if it’s done using a skewer inserted into the center—it should come out clean! Allow cooling before removing from the pan.
Once cooled completely, roll out additional marzipan for decoration if desired; this makes an impressive display!
Now you are ready to slice into this delicious simnel cake! Enjoy every bite as you reminisce about your own adventures in baking—just like I did! delicious cheesecake brownies.
You Must Know
- Simnel cake is not just delicious; it’s a beautiful Easter tradition packed with dried fruits and spices
- The delightful aroma of baking will fill your kitchen, making everyone wonder what’s cooking
- Plus, it gets better with age, so feel free to make it ahead!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing your dry ingredients while the butter and sugars cream together. This multitasking approach saves time and ensures perfect blending.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding a splash of orange juice or zest for a zesty twist. Almonds can also provide an unexpected crunch that elevates the cake.
Storing & Reheating
Store your simnel cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. It can be enjoyed chilled or warmed in the microwave for a few seconds.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a moist simnel cake, soak your dried fruits overnight in tea or rum
- Mixing different types of dried fruits adds diverse textures and flavors
- Use a toothpick to check doneness; if it comes out clean, you’re good to go!
Sometimes, I think my fondest memory is when my grandma shared her secret simnel cake recipe during Easter brunch. The laughter and joy around the table still make my heart warm. For more inspiration, check out this Irish apple cake recipe recipe.
FAQ
What is simnel cake?
Simnel cake is a rich fruitcake traditionally eaten during Easter celebrations. For more inspiration, check out this Easter MM cookies recipe.
Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried?
Fresh fruit isn’t recommended since it may alter the texture and moisture content.
How long does simnel cake last?
When stored properly, simnel cake can last for up to two weeks or longer.
Simnel Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
Description
Simnel cake is a delightful Easter treat that combines moist layers of rich fruitcake with sweet marzipan. Each slice brings back cherished memories and fills your kitchen with the warm aroma of baking. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is not only an impressive centerpiece but also surprisingly easy to make, making it suitable for bakers of all skill levels. Experience the blend of spices and dried fruits in every bite, and enjoy the festive charm it adds to your gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (150g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup (150g) dark brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup (150g) mixed dried fruits (sultanas and currants)
- 1/2 cup (125g) marzipan, chopped
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease an 8-inch round cake pan.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and dark brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until the batter is smooth.
- Gently fold in flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until just combined.
- Stir in mixed dried fruits and chopped marzipan.
- Pour half the batter into the prepared pan, layer with marzipan, then add remaining batter on top.
- Bake for about 60 minutes or until a skewer inserted comes out clean. Allow to cool before removing from the pan.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
