Description
A traditional British Simnel Cake combining moist, spiced fruit cake layers with a luscious marzipan middle. This classic Easter treat features mixed dried fruits, warm spices, and citrus zest, baked to golden perfection for a rich and flavorful celebration cake.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 2 cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, sultanas)
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1/4 cup whole milk
Other Ingredients
- 4 oz marzipan, rolled out
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 orange
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: 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 easy removal.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 5 minutes using an electric mixer, creating a smooth base for your batter.
- Add Eggs and Zest: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the lemon and orange zest along with the mixed spices to infuse the batter with fresh citrus and warm flavor.
- Fold in Dry Ingredients and Fruits: Gradually fold in the flour combined with baking powder, taking care not to overmix. Then gently fold in the mixed dried fruits, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Layer with Marzipan: Pour half of the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly. Roll out the marzipan thinly and carefully place it on top of the batter. Then cover with the remaining batter, smoothing the top.
- Bake the Cake: Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before decorating or serving.
Notes
- Ensure eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and cake texture.
- You can customize the mix of dried fruits based on preference, including chopped glace cherries or dried apricots.
- Marzipan can also be used to decorate the top of the cake after baking for additional sweetness and traditional presentation.
- Store the cake in an airtight container; it improves in flavor after a day or two as the spices meld.
- If preferred, soak dried fruits in brandy or orange juice overnight for extra moistness and flavor.
