This Easy Homemade Orange Loaf is a bright and zesty treat that’s so simple to make. With fresh orange juice and zest, it brings a lovely citrus flavor to every bite!
Baking this loaf fills my kitchen with the best sweet smell ever! I like to enjoy it with a cup of tea. It’s perfect for breakfast or a quick snack anytime. 🍊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour: All-purpose flour is the best choice for this loaf as it provides a good structure. For a gluten-free option, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
Fresh Orange Juice & Zest: Fresh juice and zest give the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, bottled juice can work, but it lacks the brightness of fresh. Use about 2 teaspoons of bottled juice for each orange.
Yogurt or Sour Cream: I like using plain yogurt for moisture and tang, but you can use sour cream or even Greek yogurt for a thicker texture. Even a non-dairy yogurt works if you need a dairy-free version!
Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the loaf nicely. You can reduce the amount slightly or use a sugar substitute if preferred.
How Can I Ensure My Loaf Bakes Evenly?
Baking your orange loaf evenly is key for a perfect texture. Here are some helpful tips:
- Preheat your oven properly; an oven thermometer can help ensure it’s at the correct temperature.
- Use a greased and floured loaf pan; this helps in easy removal after baking.
- Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center. It should come out clean or with a few crumbs.
- Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This helps it set correctly without falling apart.
Enjoy your baking experience and the delightful smell of fresh oranges in your kitchen!
Easy Homemade Orange Loaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Ingredients for the Loaf:
- 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup (120ml) fresh orange juice (about 2 oranges)
- 2 tbsp orange zest (from about 2 oranges)
- ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
- ½ cup (120ml) plain yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Orange Glaze:
- ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and 50-60 minutes to bake. After baking, you’ll need some time to cool the loaf, plus a few minutes to drizzle on the glaze. All in all, you’ll be enjoying your delicious orange loaf in about 1 hour and 15 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that heats up, grease and flour your 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking later.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and ensures your loaf will rise nicely!
3. Beat Sugar and Eggs:
In a large bowl, use a mixer on medium speed to beat the sugar and eggs together until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy. This step is important as it adds air to your batter.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Now, add the fresh orange juice, orange zest, vegetable oil, yogurt, and vanilla extract to the egg mixture. Mix everything until it’s fully combined but be careful not to overmix!
5. Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients:
Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until everything is just combined. You want to avoid overmixing here to keep the loaf nice and fluffy.
6. Pour Batter into Pan:
Pour the prepared batter into your greased loaf pan, using a spatula to smooth the top so it bakes evenly.
7. Bake the Loaf:
Place it in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean when it’s ready.
8. Prepare the Glaze:
While your loaf is baking, whisk together the powdered sugar and orange juice in a small bowl until you have a smooth glaze. Set aside for later.
9. Cool the Loaf:
Once baked, take the loaf out of the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Drizzle and Serve:
After the loaf has cooled, drizzle the orange glaze over the top. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy the vibrant, citrusy flavor with every bite!
Happy Baking! Enjoy your moist, flavorful homemade orange loaf!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Bottled Orange Juice Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use bottled orange juice, but fresh juice gives the best flavor and aroma. If using bottled, look for 100% pure juice without added sugars or preservatives for the closest taste.
What Can I Substitute for Yogurt in This Recipe?
If you don’t have yogurt on hand, sour cream is a great substitute. You can also use buttermilk or a non-dairy yogurt if you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative. Just keep the measurements the same!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover orange loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving!
Can I Add Nuts or Chocolate Chips?
Absolutely! Feel free to add up to ½ cup of chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) or chocolate chips to the batter for extra texture and flavor. Just fold them in gently after combining the wet and dry ingredients.
