What is Simnel Cake and why is it eaten on Easter?
The British fruitcake Simnel Cake is a dry-fruit, spice and marzipan-packed British fruitcake that’s eaten at Easter. It has its origins in medieval England and is very common in the UK and Ireland.
It consists of thick, buttery batter, with dried raisins, currants, sultanas, and a surface layer of marzipan inside and on top. One of its recognizable details is the 11 marzipan balls on top, representing Jesus’ twelve apostles, not including Judas who betrayed Him.
On Easter Sunday, Simnel Cake is typically eaten to commemorate the resurrection, as the cake’s richness of ingredients and layers represents rebirth. The cake is usually served with tea or as part of an Easter celebration. It’s always a favorite Easter food in the UK because of its longevity.