Simnel Cake

Instructions

1. Prepare the cake tin
   Preheat oven to 150°C/300°F/Gas Mark 2. Grease and line a 20cm (8 inch) deep round cake tin with parchment paper, allowing the paper to come about 2.5cm above the rim of the tin.
2. Make the cake batter
   Using an electric mixer, cream together the butter and sugar until pale and fluffy. Gradually beat in the eggs, adding a tablespoon of flour with each addition to prevent curdling. Sift in the remaining flour, mixed spice, and cinnamon, then fold in gently until well combined.
3. Add the fruit
   Fold in the mixed dried fruits, glacé cherries, candied peel, and lemon zest until evenly distributed throughout the batter. The mixture should have a dropping consistency.
4. Prepare the marzipan layer
   Divide the marzipan into three equal parts. Roll out one-third to a circle about 20cm in diameter (the same size as your cake tin). Set aside the remaining marzipan for later use.
5. Assemble and bake
   Spoon half of the cake mixture into the prepared tin and level the surface. Place the rolled marzipan circle on top, then add the remaining cake mixture, making sure to cover the marzipan completely. Level the surface and bake in the preheated oven for 2 hours to 2 hours 15 minutes until firm to the touch and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely in the tin.
6. Add the second layer of marzipan
   Once cooled, brush the top of the cake with warmed apricot jam. Roll out another third of the marzipan to a 20cm circle and place on top of the cake. Crimp the edges decoratively with your fingers or a fork.
7. Make the marzipan decorations
   With the remaining marzipan, roll 11 equal-sized balls to represent the 11 apostles (Judas is excluded). Arrange these around the edge of the cake. Brush the marzipan top and balls with beaten egg white.
8. Finish the cake
   Place the cake under a preheated broiler for 1-2 minutes until the marzipan turns golden brown (watch carefully to prevent burning). Alternatively, use a kitchen blowtorch to lightly brown the marzipan. Allow to cool completely before serving.