How to Make Simnel Cake The Victorian Way

Buy your copy of our 'Victorian Way' cookery book: Visit Audley End House and Gardens for yourself: Though known and loved today as an Easter treat, in Victorian times simnel cake was more to do with Mothering Sunday, which originated as the day in Lent when people would visit their home (or 'Mother') church. But by Mrs Crocombe's time, Mothering Sunday was already starting to be associated with honouring mothers. Whatever occasion it's baked for, this almond-topped fruitcake is rich, fragrant and rather good with a cup of tea. English Heritage is a charity that cares for over 400 historic buildings, monuments and sites. Find out how you can support our work here: INGREDIENTS • 150ml (5 fl. oz) milk • 2 tsp dried yeast • 225g (8oz) flour • 115g (4oz) butter • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg or 1/4 of a small nutmeg • 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon • 340g (12oz) sugar • 285g (10o