About the Recipe
A delightful citrus-infused treat that will brighten your day—the orange loaf. This recipe combines the zesty freshness of oranges with a moist and tender loaf, creating a delightful confection that's perfect for any occasion.
The star of this recipe is the vibrant orange flavor, achieved through the use of fresh orange juice and zest. These citrus elements infuse the loaf with a burst of sunshine, adding a refreshing and aromatic twist to traditional baked goods.
As you embark on this baking adventure, imagine the tantalizing aroma of oranges filling your kitchen, creating an atmosphere of warmth and anticipation. The process begins with a simple yet flavorful batter, blending together butter, sugar, eggs, and a hint of vanilla extract.
To enhance the citrus profile, fresh orange juice and zest are added to the batter, infusing every bite of the loaf with tangy sweetness and bright notes. The addition of plain yogurt or sour cream ensures a moist and tender texture, making each slice a melt-in-your-mouth delight.
As the orange loaf bakes in the oven, your home is filled with the irresistible scent of citrus, signaling that something truly special is about to emerge. The golden crust that forms on top hints at the moist and tender crumb within, inviting you to indulge in a slice of homemade goodness.
Once cooled, the loaf can be drizzled with a simple orange glaze for an extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal. The glaze, made with powdered sugar and more fresh orange juice, adds a glossy finish that complements the citrus flavors beautifully.
Whether enjoyed as a breakfast treat, afternoon snack, or dessert, this orange loaf is sure to brighten your day and delight your taste buds. Share it with loved ones, savor it with a cup of tea or coffee, or simply enjoy it on its own—a slice of sunshine in every bite.
Embrace the joy of baking with fresh citrus flavors and experience the simple pleasures of homemade goodness with this delightful orange loaf recipe. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the aroma of oranges transport you to a world of delicious possibilities.
Ingredients
Loaf Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1/4 cup fresh orange juice
Zest of 1 orange
1/4 cup plain yogurt or sour cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the orange glaze (optional):
1 cup powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
Zest of 1 orange
Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs to the butter-sugar mixture, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Stir in the fresh orange juice, orange zest, plain yogurt or sour cream, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can result in a dense loaf.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Bake the orange loaf in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
While the loaf is baking, prepare the orange glaze (if using) by whisking together the powdered sugar, fresh orange juice, and orange zest until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar or orange juice as needed.
Once baked, remove the orange loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack set over a baking sheet to cool completely.
If using the orange glaze, drizzle it over the cooled loaf. Allow the glaze to set before slicing and serving.
Slice the orange loaf and enjoy it with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful citrusy treat. The combination of fresh orange flavor and moist, tender texture makes this loaf perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack any time of day!
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