Delia Smith Simnel Cake

Delia Smith’s Simnel Cake is a traditional British Easter treat, featuring a rich fruit cake layered with marzipan and adorned with a decorative topping. This recipe is perfect for celebrating the season or enjoying a flavorful slice with a cup of tea. It combines classic ingredients with timeless techniques to create a delicious, beautifully presented dessert.

What is Delia Smith Simnel Cake?

Simnel cake is a light fruitcake traditionally enjoyed during Easter. It is layered and topped with marzipan, with eleven marzipan balls symbolizing the apostles (excluding Judas). Delia Smith’s version stays true to this tradition, delivering a moist, flavorful cake with a hint of almond sweetness.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Classic Easter tradition: Perfect for celebrating the holiday with a meaningful dessert.
• Rich and flavorful: Packed with dried fruits, spices, and marzipan for a delightful taste.
• Impressive presentation: The marzipan topping makes it look stunning and festive.
• Make-ahead option: This cake stores well and tastes better as it matures.
• Perfect for gatherings: A great choice for sharing with family and friends.

Ingredients Needed for Delia Smith Simnel Cake

For the Cake:

• 225g plain flour
• 175g softened butter
• 175g soft brown sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 50g ground almonds
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp mixed spice
• 350g mixed dried fruit (sultanas, currants, and raisins)
• 100g glacé cherries (halved)
• 50g chopped mixed peel
• Zest of 1 lemon

For the Marzipan:

• 450g ready-made marzipan (or homemade if preferred)

For Decoration:

• 2 tbsp apricot jam
• 1 beaten egg (for glazing)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• 20cm (8-inch) round cake tin
• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Rolling pin
• Pastry brush

Instructions to Make Delia Smith Simnel Cake

• Step 1: Preheat the oven and prepare the tin. Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F) and line a 20cm round cake tin with baking parchment.
• Step 2: Cream butter and sugar. In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and soft brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
• Step 3: Add eggs and dry ingredients. Gradually beat in the eggs, one at a time, adding a spoonful of flour if the mixture begins to curdle. Sift in the flour, baking powder, mixed spice, and ground almonds, and gently fold them into the mixture.
• Step 4: Add fruits and zest. Stir in the dried fruit, cherries, mixed peel, and lemon zest until evenly distributed.
• Step 5: Add the first layer of marzipan. Roll out one-third of the marzipan into a circle the same size as the cake tin. Pour half the cake mixture into the tin, place the marzipan layer on top, and then add the remaining cake mixture.
• Step 6: Bake the cake. Smooth the surface, place it in the oven, and bake for 2 ½ to 3 hours, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the tin.
• Step 7: Add the marzipan topping. Once the cake has cooled, roll out half of the remaining marzipan into a circle the size of the cake. Brush the top of the cake with apricot jam and place the marzipan circle on top.
• Step 8: Decorate with marzipan balls. Divide the remaining marzipan into 11 equal pieces and roll them into balls. Arrange the balls around the edge of the cake.
• Step 9: Glaze and finish. Brush the marzipan topping and balls with beaten egg. Place the cake under a hot grill for a few minutes until the marzipan is lightly browned.

What to Serve With Delia Smith Simnel Cake

• With a cup of tea or coffee: A classic pairing for an afternoon treat.
• As part of an Easter spread: Serve alongside hot cross buns and other festive favorites.
• With whipped cream: Add a dollop of cream for extra indulgence.
• As a dessert: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a modern twist.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Simnel Cake

• Use room temperature ingredients: This ensures a smoother batter.
• Soak dried fruits: Soaking the fruits in tea or juice overnight makes them plump and juicy.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently fold in the flour and fruits to maintain a light texture.
• Check for doneness: Insert a skewer into the center to ensure it comes out clean.
• Toast the marzipan lightly: Keep an eye on the grill to avoid burning the marzipan.
• Store properly: Wrap the cake in foil and store in an airtight container to let the flavors develop.

What are the Variations of Simnel Cake?

• Add a modern twist: Use different dried fruits like cranberries or apricots.
• Try different spices: Experiment with cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom for unique flavors.
• Make it nut-free: Replace ground almonds with additional flour if needed.
• Use homemade marzipan: Make your own almond paste for a richer flavor.

How Do I Store Simnel Cake?

• Wrap in foil: Keep the cake tightly wrapped in foil to retain moisture.
• Use an airtight container: Store the wrapped cake in a container in a cool, dry place.
• Refrigerate after cutting: Once sliced, refrigerate the cake to extend its shelf life.

How Do I Reheat Simnel Cake?

• Warm in the oven: Place a slice in a low oven (150°C) for 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave for quick results: Heat a slice on low power for 10-15 seconds.

How Can I Make Simnel Cake Healthier?

• Use wholemeal flour: Swap plain flour for wholemeal for added fiber.
• Reduce sugar: Adjust the sugar quantity to your taste preferences.
• Use natural sweeteners: Replace sugar with honey or maple syrup.
• Add more fruit: Increase the amount of dried fruits to reduce the need for sugar.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450
• Carbohydrates: 65g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 4g

FAQs

What Is the Meaning of the Marzipan Balls on Simnel Cake?

The marzipan balls on Simnel’s cake symbolize the eleven apostles, excluding Judas. They are a traditional decorative feature that adds both meaning and elegance to the cake.

Can I Make Simnel Cake Ahead of Time?

Yes, Simnel cake can be made ahead of time. In fact, it improves in flavor when stored for a few days in an airtight container, allowing the flavors to develop.

Can I Freeze Simnel Cake?

Simnel cake can be frozen without the marzipan topping. Wrap it tightly in cling film and foil, then freeze for up to three months. Add the marzipan topping after thawing.

How Do I Prevent My Simnel Cake from Sinking?

To prevent your Simnel cake from sinking, ensure the batter is not overmixed and avoid opening the oven door during baking. Also, check that your oven temperature is consistent.

Final Words

Delia Smith Simnel Cake is a timeless recipe that combines tradition with delicious flavor. Its rich fruit base, combined with the sweetness of marzipan, makes it a must-have for Easter celebrations or any special occasion. Follow this step-by-step guide and enjoy the satisfaction of baking a cake that not only tastes incredible but also carries a meaningful story.

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