Easter Simnel Cake

Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch springform pan. Line the base and sides with parchment paper. (15 minutes)

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and light brown sugar until light and fluffy using an electric mixer. (5 minutes)

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. (3 minutes)

Gradually mix in the self-rising flour until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. (2 minutes)

Stir in the golden raisins, currants, glacé cherries, mixed candied peel, lemon zest, and mixed spice until evenly distributed throughout the batter. (5 minutes)

Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared springform pan. (2 minutes)

Divide the almond paste into 3 equal portions. On a lightly sugared surface, roll out one portion into an 8-inch circle. (5 minutes)

Carefully place the marzipan circle over the batter in the pan. (1 minute)

Spoon the remaining cake batter evenly over the marzipan layer. (2 minutes)

Bake in the preheated oven for 2 hours 30 minutes, or until the cake is evenly golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the cake begins to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil after the first hour of baking. (150 minutes)

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. (10 minutes)

Preheat the oven's broiler to high. (2 minutes)

In a small microwave-safe bowl, warm the apricot jam for about 5 seconds until it is easily spreadable. Strain the jam for a smoother glaze. (2 minutes)

Brush the top of the cooled cake with the warmed apricot jam. (2 minutes)

Roll out another portion of almond paste into an 8-inch circle and gently place it on top of the cake. (5 minutes)

Brush the marzipan topping with beaten egg to create a beautiful golden sheen. (2 minutes)

Divide the remaining almond paste into 11 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a small ball and arrange them evenly around the outside edge of the cake, symbolizing the apostles. (10 minutes)

Lightly brush the tops of the marzipan balls with beaten egg. (2 minutes)

Place the cake under the preheated broiler for 8-10 minutes, or until the marzipan is golden brown and slightly toasted, watching carefully to prevent burning. (10 minutes)