Chocolate Orange Snack Loaf

Name: Chocolate Orange Snack Loaf
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup buttermilk; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; Zest of 1 orange; 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love the combination of chocolate and orange, and this Chocolate Orange Snack Loaf brings that delicious pairing to life. The rich cocoa flavor blended with fresh orange zest creates a delightful treat that is perfect for any time of day. I've made this loaf for family gatherings and quiet afternoons alike, and it never fails to impress. The addition of a touch of orange juice keeps the loaf moist and enhances the citrus notes, making it a standout bake. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, which is always a bonus!

Created by

Katherine Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-18T03:55:13.154Z

When I first tried this Chocolate Orange Snack Loaf, I was amazed at how well the flavors complimented each other. The sweetness of the chocolate paired with the tangy brightness of the orange creates a delicious balance that feels indulgent yet refreshing. I found that the secret lies in adding the orange zest right into the batter; it makes a world of difference in flavor!

A great tip I learned while baking this loaf is to allow it to cool fully before slicing. This helps it set properly, ensuring each slice holds together beautifully. I've experimented with varying amounts of cocoa powder, and I truly believe that the right amount brings out the best chocolate flavor without overwhelming the citrus notes.

        Why You Will 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

      

The Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Chocolate Orange Snack Loaf serves a specific purpose that enhances the overall texture and flavor. The buttermilk not only adds moisture but also contributes acidity, which reacts with the baking soda to create a tender crumb. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily substitute it with a mixture of milk and vinegar or lemon juice—just let it sit for about five minutes before using it.

The cocoa powder is essential for achieving that rich chocolate flavor. Opting for high-quality cocoa powder will significantly elevate the taste. Unsweetened cocoa provides the necessary depth without adding extra sugar, allowing the orange zest and juice to shine through. If you're looking for a different flavor profile, consider using dark cocoa powder for a more intense chocolate experience.

Baking and Cooling Tips

When baking your loaf, it’s important to monitor its progress during the last few minutes of baking. Ovens can vary greatly, so check for doneness at around 45 minutes; the loaf should spring back when gently pressed and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out mostly clean, with just a few moist crumbs. If the edges start to darken too quickly, you can loosely cover the top with foil to prevent burning.

Cooling your loaf properly is crucial to prevent it from becoming soggy. After the initial 10 minutes in the pan, transferring it to a wire rack for the remainder of the cooling process allows air to circulate and avoid steam buildup. This step not only helps maintain the loaf's texture but also enhances the flavors, as the chocolate and orange notes meld during cooling.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your Chocolate Orange Snack Loaf.

Ingredients

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup buttermilk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
Zest of 1 orange
2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to have all these ingredients ready before you start baking!

Instructions

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

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract.

Combine and Mix

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your freshly baked Chocolate Orange Snack Loaf!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the batter before baking. Alternatively, a light glaze of orange juice mixed with powdered sugar on top can add a beautiful finish.

Serving Suggestions

This Chocolate Orange Snack Loaf can be enjoyed in various ways. For a more indulgent treat, serve slices with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream. Add a side of fresh berries for a burst of color and a tart contrast that complements the richness of the loaf beautifully.

Another delightful way to enjoy the loaf is to toast slices lightly and spread them with a hint of orange marmalade or cream cheese. The added flavors will amplify the citrus elements and make for a perfect brunch option or afternoon snack.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to make this loaf ahead of time, it stores wonderfully! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the loaf for up to three months. Make sure to slice it before freezing for easy portioning later on.

When ready to enjoy the freshly baked flavors, simply allow the frozen slices to thaw at room temperature or pop them in the toaster for a few minutes. This will revive the moist texture and rich flavors, making it taste as good as the day it was baked.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe with whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option, though it may result in a denser loaf.

→ How should I store the Chocolate Orange Snack Loaf?

Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it for a longer shelf life.

→ Can I freeze the loaf?

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

→ What can I serve with the loaf?

This loaf pairs beautifully with whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a cup of tea or coffee!