Orange Bread Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brightens your mornings, this Orange Bread Recipe is just what you need. It’s not just any bread; it’s a sweet, citrusy loaf that has become a staple in my kitchen. The vibrant flavor of fresh oranges makes every slice taste like sunshine. Whether you’re enjoying it with your morning coffee or serving it at a family gathering, this orange loaf cake is sure to impress.

This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can whip it up on a busy weeknight or bake it ahead for brunch with friends. Trust me, once you try this Orange Bread, it will quickly become one of your favorites!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: This Orange Bread Recipe comes together in just a few simple steps, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Deliciously refreshing: The burst of orange flavor makes each bite refreshing and satisfying—perfect for breakfast or dessert!
• Great for sharing: With 20 servings, it’s an ideal treat for gatherings, potlucks, or simply enjoying with loved ones.
• Make-ahead friendly: Bake it in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer—this bread tastes amazing even after a few days!
• Customizable: Feel free to mix in nuts or dried fruits to create your own unique version of this delicious loaf.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Orange Bread Recipe, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. They come together beautifully to create that rich, citrusy flavor we all love.

For the Bread

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 2 1/2 cups granulated sugar (divided)
• 4 large eggs (room temperature)
• 4 oranges (zested and juiced, divided)
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 3/4 cup orange juice (divided)
• 3/4 cup vanilla yogurt (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Glaze

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 3 tablespoons orange juice

Variations

This Orange Bread Recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are a few fun ways to switch things up:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Incorporate spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth and depth to the bread.
• Use different citrus: Try substituting some of the orange juice with lemon or lime juice for a zesty twist.
• Make mini loaves: Divide the batter into mini loaf pans for smaller servings—perfect for gifting!

How to Make Orange Bread Recipe

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Begin by creaming together the softened butter and 2 cups of granulated sugar in your mixer for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the mixture, resulting in a light and fluffy texture. Once creamy, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, stir in the zest from all four oranges—this will infuse your bread with that irresistible citrus aroma!

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, mix together 1/4 cup of orange juice (from one orange), vanilla yogurt, and vanilla extract. Alternately add both mixtures into the wet ingredients from your mixer in three additions. This method ensures everything is well combined without overmixing.

Step 3: Prepare for Baking

Pour the batter evenly into two greased loaf pans. I like to line my pans with parchment paper on the bottom before greasing them—this makes removing the bread much easier once baked! Place in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for 45-55 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 4: Make the Syrup

While your lovely loaves are baking away, prepare a sweet syrup by cooking the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar with 1/2 cup of orange juice (from two oranges) over low heat until dissolved. Once your breads have cooled in their pans for about ten minutes, remove them from the pans onto a wire rack. Spoon that fragrant syrup generously over each loaf while they cool completely—trust me; this step adds an extra punch of flavor!

Step 5: Glaze Your Loaf

To finish off this delightful creation, mix together 2 cups of powdered sugar with 3 tablespoons of orange juice using a whisk until smooth. Pour this glossy glaze over your cooled bread and allow it to set before slicing. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator or freeze them for later!

Enjoy every slice of this delicious Orange Bread Recipe—it’s sure to bring smiles all around!

Pro Tips for Making Orange Bread Recipe

Making Orange Bread is a delightful journey, and with a few handy tips, you can ensure that your loaf turns out perfectly every time!

• Use Fresh Oranges: Freshly squeezed orange juice and zest will provide the most vibrant flavor, making your bread taste bright and lively compared to bottled alternatives.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your eggs and yogurt to come to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth batter, which leads to an airy texture in the final product.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense bread, so be gentle!
• Check for Doneness: Ovens vary, so start checking your bread a few minutes before the suggested baking time. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
• Cool Completely Before Glazing: Letting your bread cool completely before adding the glaze prevents it from melting away and allows for a beautiful finish that will add both flavor and aesthetics.

How to Serve Orange Bread Recipe

Serving Orange Bread is all about showcasing its vibrant flavors and delightful texture! Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or dessert, here are some ideas to inspire you.

Garnishes

• Fresh Mint Leaves: A sprig of fresh mint not only adds a pop of color but also brings a refreshing aroma that complements the citrus notes beautifully.
• Orange Zest: Sprinkle some extra orange zest over the top for a burst of vibrant color and an added citrus punch that enhances each slice.

Side Dishes

• Greek Yogurt with Honey: Creamy Greek yogurt drizzled with honey makes for a rich and tangy side that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the Orange Bread.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits like berries or melons adds brightness and balances out the sweetness of the bread.
• Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of herbal tea (like chamomile or peppermint) can enhance your experience by providing warmth and relaxation alongside your delicious orange treat.
• Scrambled Eggs: Lightly seasoned scrambled eggs make for a balanced breakfast when served alongside this sweet bread, adding protein to your meal while keeping it light and fluffy.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in hand, you’re all set to enjoy every slice of your delightful Orange Bread! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Orange Bread Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing the delightful citrus flavors to shine through. Here are some practical tips for storing and enjoying your bread.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the Orange Bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain freshness.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate it, where it will last up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the Orange Bread before freezing for convenient portions.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• To thaw, simply leave slices at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the slices on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Alternatively, microwave individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful Orange Bread Recipe.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour in this Orange Bread Recipe?

Yes! Whole wheat flour can be used as a substitute. However, it may change the texture slightly, making it denser. You can also try using a mix of all-purpose and whole wheat flour for a balanced result.

How do I add more orange flavor to my Orange Bread Recipe?

To enhance the orange flavor, consider adding extra orange zest or using fresh orange juice instead of bottled juice. You could also incorporate some chopped candied orange peel into the batter for an extra citrus kick!

Can I make this Orange Bread Recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that works well in baking. Just ensure that your baking powder and any other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

How long does this Orange Bread stay fresh?

When stored properly at room temperature, this Orange Bread stays fresh for about 3 days. If refrigerated, it can last up to a week. For optimal flavor and texture, enjoy it within those time frames!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about making this delightful Orange Bread! With its vibrant citrus flavor and soft texture, it’s sure to brighten up your breakfast or snack time. Enjoy every slice and feel free to share it with friends and family—after all, good food is meant to be shared! Happy baking!