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If you’re looking for a warm, comforting treat that brings a touch of festive magic to your morning routine, the Simnel Spiced Breakfast Loaf Recipe is just the thing to brighten your day. This loaf is bursting with fragrant cinnamon and nutmeg, studded with sweet mixed dried fruits, and features a delightful marzipan layer tucked inside that adds a luxurious texture and flavor twist. With its enticing aroma and satisfying crumb, it’s an irresistible way to enjoy a cozy breakfast or a leisurely weekend brunch that feels both familiar and special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This loaf uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients you probably already have at home, each chosen to build a rich, spiced flavor and moist texture that makes every bite memorable. From the soft butter that adds tenderness to the marzipan that gives a subtle almond sweetness, every ingredient plays an essential role.
- Flour: The foundation of the loaf, providing structure and a tender crumb with 2 cups of all-purpose flour.
- Butter: Half a cup of softened butter contributes richness and moisture for a soft, delightfully tender bite.
- Brown Sugar: ¾ cup packed brown sugar adds depth, a subtle caramel note, and helps keep the loaf moist.
- Eggs: Two large eggs bind everything together and add a lovely richness.
- Mixed Dried Fruit: One cup of raisins, sultanas, and currants brings natural sweetness and texture that bursts with every bite.
- Marzipan: Half a cup, either in chunks or shaped into a log, adding a dreamy almond layer that’s simply irresistible.
- Milk: Half a cup softens the batter, contributing to the loaf’s almost melt-in-your-mouth softness.
- Cinnamon: One teaspoon to infuse the loaf with warm, inviting spice and aroma.
- Nutmeg: Half a teaspoon to add festive warmth and a subtle, complex flavor.
- Baking Powder: Two teaspoons for the perfect rise so your loaf stays light but sturdy enough to hold that marzipan center.
How to Make Simnel Spiced Breakfast Loaf Recipe
Step 1: Get Ready
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper. This easy step ensures your loaf won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze. Having everything prepped before mixing helps keep the process smooth and stress-free.
Step 2: Cream and Combine
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This creates a lovely base that traps air, giving your loaf a tender crumb. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the milk to loosen the batter just right for pouring.
Step 3: Spice it Up and Fold in Fruit
Mix the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a separate bowl. Gradually add this dry mix to your wet ingredients, stirring just until combined to avoid overmixing. Finally, fold in the mixed dried fruit carefully so each bite will contain those natural pops of sweetness and chewiness that make this loaf so special.
Step 4: Add the Marzipan Magic
Pour half of the batter into your prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Then, layer the marzipan either as chunks scattered over or formed into a log across the center. Pour the remaining batter on top and smooth out the surface with a spatula. This layering is what sets this loaf apart, creating a surprising center of almond bliss inside every slice.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake your loaf for 50 to 55 minutes, checking towards the end with a toothpick — it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Once done, allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Cooling helps it set up perfectly for slicing without crumbling.
Step 6: Final Touch (Optional)
If you want to add a little extra charm and sweetness, dust the top lightly with powdered sugar just before serving. It creates a delicate finishing touch that looks as good as it tastes.
How to Serve Simnel Spiced Breakfast Loaf Recipe
Garnishes
Serve your loaf with a scattering of toasted almonds or a drizzle of honey for an added layer of flavor and texture. A dollop of clotted cream or a smear of lemon curd also pairs beautifully, giving a creamy or tangy contrast to the sweet, spiced loaf.
Side Dishes
Complement the loaf with fresh seasonal fruit like sliced pears or apples to brighten the rich spices. A warm cup of tea or freshly brewed coffee will round out your breakfast or afternoon snack perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress guests, slice the loaf and toast the slices lightly, then top with ricotta cheese and a drizzle of spiced apple butter. You can even cut the loaf into thick slices and serve it as part of an elegant brunch spread alongside cheeses and nuts for a beautiful balance of sweet and savory.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover slices in plastic wrap or keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps preserve the moisture and keeps the marzipan delight intact.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, the Simnel Spiced Breakfast Loaf Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap the whole loaf or individual slices tightly in foil and place them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
For a freshly baked feel, warm slices in a toaster oven or microwave briefly until just heated through. This softens the marzipan and revives the spices, making it taste like it just came out of your oven.
FAQs
Can I use other dried fruits instead of raisins and sultanas?
Absolutely! Chopped dried apricots, cranberries, cherries, or dates all work wonderfully and give the loaf your own personal twist while maintaining that chewy sweetness.
Is it necessary to use marzipan in this recipe?
The marzipan layer is what truly makes this loaf special by adding a unique texture and almond flavor. However, if you don’t have it on hand, the loaf will still be delicious without it, just less rich and sweet in the middle.
Can I make this loaf gluten-free?
To adapt this Simnel Spiced Breakfast Loaf Recipe for gluten intolerance, substitute the all-purpose flour with a quality gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum. Keep in mind the texture may vary slightly but it will still be wonderfully flavorful.
How long will the loaf stay fresh?
Stored properly in an airtight container, this loaf stays fresh for about 3 days at room temperature and up to a week if refrigerated, though it’s best enjoyed sooner for maximum softness.
Can I add nuts to the recipe?
Yes! Chopped almonds or walnuts fold in nicely and add a pleasant crunch that complements the softness of the loaf and the chewiness of the dried fruit beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Simnel Spiced Breakfast Loaf Recipe is one of those special dishes that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying a quiet moment with your morning coffee, it offers a perfect blend of spices, sweetness, and that little marzipan surprise that keeps you coming back for more. Give it a try—you’re going to love how this loaf elevates your breakfast table with its cozy charm and delicious layers.
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Print
Simnel Spiced Breakfast Loaf Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-55 minutes
- Total Time: 65-70 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 8 slices)
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Description
A deliciously spiced breakfast loaf featuring mixed dried fruit and a hidden layer of sweet marzipan, perfect for a cozy morning treat.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup butter, softened
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
Additional Ingredients
- 1 cup mixed dried fruit (raisins, sultanas, currants)
- ½ cup marzipan, cut into chunks or rolled into a log
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal and even baking.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the milk to combine thoroughly.
- Add dry ingredients and fruit: Sift together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Then carefully fold in the mixed dried fruit to distribute evenly.
- Assemble the batter with marzipan: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Add the marzipan chunks or rolled log as a layer on top, then cover with the remaining batter, smoothing the surface for an even bake.
- Bake the loaf: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 50 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, cool the loaf in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional finishing touch: For extra sweetness and presentation, dust the cooled loaf with powdered sugar just before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the marzipan is evenly distributed in a single layer for best texture contrast.
- You can substitute mixed dried fruit with your favorite combination like cranberries or chopped apricots.
- Storage: Keep the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer preservation.
- Serving suggestion: Pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee.
