Simnel Cake, a cherished tradition associated with Mothering Sunday and Easter, has graced tables for centuries, bringing joy and sweetness to festive occasions. This rich fruitcake, adorned with marzipan, is not only a delightful treat but also carries deep symbolic meaning. In this article, we’ll explore the history and significance of Simnel Cake and provide you with a classic recipe to recreate this timeless favourite in your own kitchen.

History and Significance

Simnel Cake has roots deeply embedded in British culinary history. The word “simnel” is believed to derive from the Latin word “simila,” meaning fine flour or bread. Historically, Simnel Cake was associated with Mothering Sunday, a day when servants were given a day off to return to their mother church and visit their families. Over time, this tradition evolved, and the cake became a symbol of the love and appreciation for mothers.

The cake itself is a delicious fruitcake, rich with spices, studded with dried fruits, and often filled and topped with almond paste or marzipan. Traditionally, the cake is decorated with eleven balls of marzipan, representing the eleven faithful apostles (excluding Judas). A final touch involves toasting the marzipan topping to achieve a beautiful golden hue.

Ingredients:

For the Fruitcake

– 250g (1 1/2 cups) mixed dried fruit

– 100g (2/3 cup) glace cherries, halved

– 225g (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened

– 225g (1 cup) light brown sugar

– 4 large eggs

– 225g (1 3/4 cups) self-raising flour

– 1 tsp mixed spice

– Zest of 1 lemon

– Zest of 1 orange

– 2 tbsp apricot jam, for glazing

For the Marzipan

– 500g (about 2 cups) almond paste or marzipan

– 1 large egg, beaten (for brushing)

Instructions:

  • Prepare the Fruit – In a bowl, combine the mixed dried fruit and glacé cherries. If desired, soak them in a small amount of brandy or orange juice overnight for added flavour.
  • Preheat and Prepare – Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). Grease and line an 8-inch round cake tin with parchment paper.
  • Creaming the Butter and Sugar – In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and light brown sugar until light and fluffy.
  • Adding Eggs and Flour – Gradually beat in the eggs, one at a time. If the mixture begins to curdle, add a tablespoon of flour with each egg. Fold in the self-raising flour and mixed spice until well combined.
  • Incorporating Fruits and Zests – Gently fold in the mixed dried fruit, glacé cherries, lemon zest, and orange zest into the batter until evenly distributed.
  • Filling the Tin – Spoon half of the mixture into the prepared cake tin, smoothing it out with a spatula. Roll out a third of the almond paste or marzipan into a circle to fit the tin, and place it on top of the batter.
  • Adding More Batter and Marzipan – Spoon the remaining batter over the marzipan layer and smooth the surface. Roll another third of the marzipan and place it on top.
  • Baking – Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 2 to 2.5 hours or until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean. Cover the cake with foil if it starts to brown too quickly.
  • Cooling and Glazing – Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. While the cake is still warm, brush the top with apricot jam for a glossy finish.
  • Decorating with Marzipan Balls – Once the cake is completely cooled, roll the remaining marzipan into eleven small balls. Arrange them on top of the cake. For a finishing touch, use a kitchen torch to lightly toast the marzipan until golden.

Serving and Enjoying

Simnel Cake is best enjoyed in thin slices, allowing the rich and spiced flavours to be savoured. This delightful cake not only showcases your baking prowess but also serves as a sweet reminder of tradition and the love shared on special occasions.

As you embark on the journey of baking a Simnel Cake, remember that you are not only creating a delicious treat but also participating in a time-honoured tradition. Share the joy of this classic recipe with your loved ones, and let the aroma of spices and the sweetness of marzipan fill your home with warmth and celebration. Happy baking!