simnel cake

[sim-nl]

noun

Chiefly British.

1. any of several kinds of rich fruitcake covered with almond paste.

simnel cake

/ ˈsɪmnəl /

noun

1. a fruit cake containing a layer of marzipan, often coloured with saffron and topped with marzipan, traditionally eaten at Lent or Easter

Word History and Origins

Origin of simnel cake¹

1830–40; simnel, Middle English simenel < Old French, ultimately < Latin simila or Greek semídālis fine flour

Word History and Origins

Origin of simnel cake¹

C13 simenel, from Old French, from Latin simila fine flour, probably of Semitic origin; related to Greek semidalis fine flour

Example Sentences

It’s also a traditional covering for simnel cake – Felicity Cloake’s recipe offers both marzipan instruction and the option to buy the stuff ready-made.

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That's why one tradition of Mothering Sunday was the simnel cake.

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My Mum's @instagram account was deactivated for posting this Easter Simnel cake.

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There’s a reason and a story behind the traditions of our tables this weekend: the 11 balls of marzipan on top of simnel cake, say, the mark on top of a hot cross bun and the sacrifice of the lamb.

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As far as cake goes, Easter, again, beats Christmas hands down: simnel cake and the unimaginatively named Christmas cake are cousins of a sort, but simnel cake is tastier and easier to bake to boot.

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