Description
Zesty Chocolate Orange Loaf
Ingredients:
-1 1/2 cups flour
-1/2 cup cocoa
-1 tsp baking powder
-1/2 tsp soda
-Pinch of salt
-1 cup sugar
-1/2 cup oil
-2 eggs
-1 tsp vanilla
-Zest and juice of 1 orange
-1/2 cup buttermilk
-1/2 cup chocolate chips
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan.
Mix dry ingredients in a bowl.
Combine sugar, oil, eggs, vanilla, orange zest, juice, and buttermilk in another bowl.
Gradually add dry mix to wet; fold in chocolate chips.
Bake for 50-60 minutes. Cool and serve.
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect loaf every time. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and thoroughly grease a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan. In a medium bowl, whisk together the 1 1/2 cups flour, 1/2 cup cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Ensure these dry ingredients are fully combined to avoid pockets of baking soda in the final bake. In a larger mixing bowl, vigorously whisk the 1 cup sugar, 1/2 cup oil, and 2 eggs until smooth and slightly pale. Then, stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, the zest and juice of your orange, and the 1/2 cup buttermilk. Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, folding gently until just combined—overmixing leads to a tough texture. Finally, fold in the 1/2 cup chocolate chips. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile loaf is delicious on its own but can be elevated for any occasion. For a simple breakfast or snack, serve a thick slice slightly warmed. For a decadent dessert, top a slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A drizzle of simple orange glaze (made with powdered sugar and orange juice) or a dark chocolate ganache can transform it into a show-stopping treat. Pair it with a cup of strong coffee, Earl Grey tea, or a glass of cold milk.
How-to Summary
In brief: Whisk dry ingredients. Separately, mix wet ingredients (sugar, oil, eggs, vanilla, orange zest/juice, buttermilk). Combine wet and dry mixes gently. Fold in chocolate chips. Bake in a greased loaf pan at 350°F for 50-60 minutes. Cool before slicing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, you can make a substitute. Add 1/2 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to a 1/2 cup measuring cup, then fill the rest with regular milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
What if I don’t have a fresh orange?
You can use 2-3 tablespoons of store-bought orange juice and 1 tablespoon of orange zest. In a pinch, 1 teaspoon of high-quality orange extract can provide flavor, though fresh is best.
How should I store the loaf?
Once completely cool, store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
Why did my loaf sink in the middle?
This is often due to underbaking or opening the oven door too early, which causes a sudden temperature drop. Ensure the loaf is fully baked and resist peeking before the 45-minute mark.
Can I make this recipe into muffins?
Absolutely! Divide the batter into a lined muffin tin and bake at the same temperature for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick tests clean.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the batter: This develops gluten, resulting in a dense, tough crumb. Mix until the flour is just incorporated.
- Using cold ingredients: For better emulsification, ensure eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature.
- Incorrectly measuring flour: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off. Scooping directly packs the flour, leading to a dry loaf.
- Not fully preheating the oven: Putting batter into a cool oven can affect the rise and texture.
- Slicing while hot: The loaf needs time to set. Allow it to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Conclusion
This Zesty Chocolate Orange Loaf is a masterful blend of rich cocoa and bright citrus, creating a moist and flavorful treat that’s surprisingly simple to make. By following the detailed guide and heeding the common pitfalls, you’re guaranteed a bakery-worthy result. Whether enjoyed as a humble snack or dressed up for dessert, this loaf is sure to become a beloved recipe in your collection. Happy baking!