Description
Sweet memories of British tradition unfold in this classic Simnel Cake, blending rich dried fruits and delicate marzipan layers. Generations of bakers have cherished this Easter favorite, promising a delightful slice of nostalgia you’ll savor with each delectable bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup (226 grams) unsalted butter
- 1 cup (200 grams) light brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups (240 grams) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (150 grams) raisins
- 1/2 cup (75 grams) cranberries
- 1/2 cup (100 grams) mixed dried fruits and nuts
Dried Fruits and Zest:
- 14 cup (40 grams) chopped dried apricots
- Zest of 1 orange
- Zest of 1 lemon
Additional Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (340 grams) apricot jam
- 18 ounces (510 grams) marzipan
Instructions
- Prepare the oven by heating to 350F and thoroughly coating a bundt pan with grease, then line with parchment paper.
- Using an electric mixer, thoroughly blend softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, then gradually incorporate eggs, ensuring smooth integration of zest, citrus juice, and vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, sift together all dry ingredients, creating a uniform mixture that will ensure even distribution when combined with wet ingredients.
- Gently fold the dry ingredient mixture into the creamed butter mixture, stirring until just combined to maintain a soft, tender texture.
- Carefully fold in dried fruits and chopped nuts, distributing them evenly throughout the batter to ensure consistent flavor in each slice.
- Transfer the batter into the prepared bundt pan, smoothing the surface to create an even layer for consistent baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, checking doneness by inserting a skewer into the center – it should emerge clean when the cake is fully baked.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 30 minutes, then carefully invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Gently warm fruit jam until it reaches a spreadable consistency, then brush generously over the top of the cooled cake.
- Carefully place a rolled marzipan disk on top of the jam-covered cake, then artfully arrange 11 small marzipan balls around the edge for traditional decoration.
Notes
- Check fruit freshness by ensuring they’re plump and vibrant, not dried out or discolored.
- Toast nuts lightly before adding to enhance their nutty flavor and add a delightful crunch to the cake.
- Adjust moisture by soaking dried fruits in warm tea or orange juice for extra softness and depth of flavor.
- Opt for gluten-free flour blend if making a celiac-friendly version, ensuring the same tender texture and rich taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 446 kcal
- Sugar: 34 g
- Sodium: 230 mg
- Fat: 23 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg