Chocolate Orange Snack Loaf

Name: Chocolate Orange Snack Loaf
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup cocoa powder; 1 tsp baking soda; ½ tsp salt; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ½ cup milk; Zest of 1 orange; 1 cup chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love baking, and this Chocolate Orange Snack Loaf has become one of my favorite creations! The rich chocolate paired with the vibrant orange zest gives this loaf a delightful depth of flavor that keeps me coming back for more. Each slice is moist and satisfying, making it perfect for a quick snack or a sweet treat with my afternoon coffee. I love how simple it is to make, yet it feels indulgent, and the aroma that fills my kitchen while it bakes is simply irresistible!

Created by

Lydia Spencer

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:25:22.004Z

When I first decided to combine chocolate and orange in a loaf, I wasn't sure how it would turn out. After some experimentation, I discovered the magical balance of flavors; the citrus brightness cuts through the richness of the chocolate, creating a delightful contrast. I often serve this loaf at gatherings or keep it handy for a quick snack, and it never fails to impress!

I highly recommend incorporating fresh orange zest to enhance the flavor profile. Also, let the loaf cool completely before slicing; this ensures clean cuts and maximizes the deliciousness in every bite. Trust me, it's worth the wait!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

Baking Techniques for Success

One of the keys to achieving a perfectly moist Chocolate Orange Snack Loaf is in the creaming process. Make sure to beat the butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which typically takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer. This step incorporates air into the batter, resulting in a lighter texture. If you find that the mixture is not fluffy after several minutes, continue mixing; don't rush this step as it affects the final crumb of your loaf.

When mixing in the dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix the batter. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just incorporated—seeing a few floury streaks is perfectly fine! Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf that lacks the tender crumb you’re aiming for, so keep it gentle in this step.

Flavor Enhancements and Variations

The bright orange flavor of this loaf can be enhanced by using freshly grated orange zest. If you find whole oranges too messy or time-consuming, substitute the zest with high-quality orange extract—about 1 teaspoon should suffice. However, the zest provides a more natural and vibrant flavor profile, so I recommend it for the best results.

Consider adding a pinch of espresso powder to the dry ingredients to deepen the chocolate flavor without being overly coffee-flavored. This little trick balances the sweetness with a hint of complexity, making each bite more intriguing and satisfying.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start:

Ingredients

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup cocoa powder
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup milk
Zest of 1 orange
1 cup chocolate chips

Make sure to have all the ingredients measured out for a smooth baking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Chocolate Orange Snack Loaf:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and milk to the butter mixture, mixing until well combined.

Mix in Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

Add Zest and Chocolate Chips

Fold in the orange zest and chocolate chips until evenly distributed.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

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

Enjoy your freshly baked Chocolate Orange Snack Loaf with a cup of tea or coffee!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can drizzle some chocolate ganache over the cooled loaf before serving.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

To keep your Chocolate Orange Snack Loaf fresh, wrap it in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container once completely cooled. It can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days, or you can refrigerate it to extend freshness for up to a week. For longer storage, consider slicing the loaf and freezing individual pieces—simply thaw them at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds when you're ready to enjoy.

This loaf pairs wonderfully with a variety of toppings. I love spreading a thin layer of cream cheese frosting on top for an added level of indulgence, or simply enjoying it with a dollop of whipped cream. You might also consider serving slices alongside fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your loaf sinks in the middle, it may be due to underbaking or too much moisture in the batter. Always check for doneness with a toothpick—it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If you find your loaf overbaked and dry, consider adjusting your oven temperature. An oven thermometer can be a handy tool to ensure your settings are accurate.

Sometimes, lumps in your batter may indicate that the butter was too cold before you began creaming it. Always use softened butter, which should yield a smooth batter. If you're unsure, you can grate cold butter to speed up the softening process, ensuring a fluffy blend when mixed with sugar.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for added nutrition, but the texture may be denser.

→ How should I store the loaf?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer shelf life.

→ Can I freeze the Chocolate Orange Snack Loaf?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this loaf?

It pairs well with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.