This traditional Easter fruit cake is topped with 11 spheres of homemade marzipan, representing all the Apostles, minus Judus. Decorate with a wide yellow ribbon. First make the marzipan.

Simnel cake was traditionally given by servant girls to their mothers when they returned home on Mothering Sunday and it's now become a classic Easter cake. Preheat the oven to 150C/130C Fan/Gas 2.

You may not be familiar with simnel cake, but if you’ve never tried it we recommend you remedy this immediately. Similar to a Christmas cake and a little lighter than a fruit cake, simnel cake ...

As Easter approaches, there's no better way to celebrate than with a traditional Easter Simnel Cake. With a rich history going back centuries, this marzipan-covered fruitcake is a delicious treat.

3. Divide almond paste into 3 equal portions. Roll out 1/3 of the almond paste to an 8 inch circle. Place the circle of almond paste on the cake batter in pan. Cover with remaining cake batter. 4.

Add the grated apple to the fruit and mix in gently but thoroughly. Put half of the cake mixture into the prepared tin, roll about half of the almond paste into an 8½ inch (21.5cm) round.