Karen's Simnel Cake

Join the brilliant Karen Wright (GBBO Star, series 9) live from Wakefield, UK as she guides you through her recipe for the traditional Simnel Cake. Simnel Cake is a British cake steeped in history. It is unclear exactly where it originates from but it is always associated with Easter and the end of lent when all rich things could once again be consumed. The cake is also said to represent the last supper where Judas betrays Jesus, each of the balls being a disciple, some cakes leave judas out and only use 11 balls, we have been more inclusive with this recipe! Whatever the history the cake is delicious, not as heavy and rich a Christmas cake, but fresh and zesty. It keeps very well in an airtight container for a week or so.

Equipment

3 x large mixing bowls

Electric hand mixer

Large spoon

Silicone spatula

Rectangular 20cm x 30cm cake tin

Greaseproof paper

Cooling rack 

Sharp knife

Saucepan

Spoon

Sieve

Small plate

Teaspoon

Pastry brush

Knife

Stick blender

Rolling pin

Pizza roller or sharp knife, 

Tape measure or ruler

Ingredients

Cake

200g mixed dried fruit, I used apricots, sultanas, raisins, currents, candied peel.

2 Tbs Amaretto or orange juice,

125g soft brown sugar, 

175g soft butter or margarine, 

3 large eggs, 

zest and juice of an orange, 

1 tsp almond essence.

125g plain flour, 

half tsp baking powder, 

1 tsp cinnamon, 

1 tsp mixed spice or pumpkin spice, 

50g ground almonds, 

50 g flaked almonds.

Extra Amaretto to drizzle on cake after cooking (not essential)

Jam

200g apricots, stoned and chopped, 

200g sugar, juice half a lemon

Marzipan

200g ground almonds, 

200g icing (confectioners)sugar, 

1 egg separated, 

juice of an orange. 

1 tsp almond essence

We’ll start off the class with an introductory welcome and some background from Karen's time on TV, before we ask you to put on your aprons and bake along as you watch Karen demonstrate all the skills required to make these delicious treats.

Our class will take around 2 hours as we bake our little masterpieces, before you can tuck into the fruits of your labour all whilst hearing fantastic memories and stories from Karen. Tickets are priced at £35 for individuals and £50 for groups of two or more that will join from the same household.Places are non-refundable and cannot be cancelled or altered after purchase. 

All classes are subject to a minimum number of six attendees signing up. If the minimum number is not met, we will inform those who have purchased a place no later than 48 hours before the class, and will arrange a full refund.

Upon booking, all guests will be emailed a link to the class with a full breakdown of ingredients and equipment as well as the method one week before their class. Please do check junk email just in case you don't spot it arrive!