Chocolate Orange Almond Loaf

Name: Chocolate Orange Almond Loaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp baking soda; ¼ tsp salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ¼ cup milk; Zest of 1 orange; ½ cup chopped almonds

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore making this Chocolate Orange Almond Loaf. The combination of rich chocolate, bright orange zest, and crunchy almonds creates a delightful flavor explosion. Each slice is a treat that perfectly balances sweet and nutty notes. Whenever I need a little pick-me-up or want to impress friends at a gathering, this loaf is my go-to recipe. It’s simple to prepare yet delivers such impressive results that you won’t believe how easy it was to make!

Created by

Rebecca Mills

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:37:08.847Z

When I first tried this Chocolate Orange Almond Loaf, I was blown away by how well the flavors complemented each other. I experimented with adding just the right amount of orange zest to highlight the chocolate, and it really made a difference. It’s an easy recipe that you're sure to impress your guests with!

The addition of almonds not only adds texture but also boosts the flavor. I found that lightly toasting the almonds before mixing them in enhances their natural nuttiness, creating an unforgettable loaf that is perfect for any occasion.

        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

In this Chocolate Orange Almond Loaf, each ingredient plays a vital role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor. The combination of all-purpose flour and cocoa powder creates a tender crumb while providing a rich chocolate base. Using unsweetened cocoa powder rather than sweetened ensures that the loaf isn't overly sweet, allowing the orange zest to shine through, which brightens the overall flavor.

The addition of melted unsalted butter not only contributes moisture but also enhances the loaf's richness. Eggs act as a binding agent, helping the loaf maintain its structure while adding a slight elevation to the dessert. Don’t skip the milk; it adds the necessary liquid to bring the batter to a smooth consistency, contributing to a moist final product.

Perfecting the Baking Process

Getting the baking right is crucial for this loaf. Preheating your oven to the correct temperature ensures even cooking throughout. Using a toothpick test is essential; when inserted into the center, it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, which indicates that it’s perfectly baked. If the toothpick comes out with wet batter, return it to the oven briefly, checking every 5 minutes until done.

After baking, do allow the loaf to cool for about 10 minutes in the pan. This cooling time helps it release from the sides of the pan without breaking apart. Transferring it too soon can lead to mishaps, so patience here will reward you with a beautifully shaped loaf ready to slice.

Ingredients

For the Loaf

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
¼ tsp salt
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ cup milk
Zest of 1 orange
½ cup chopped almonds

Mix well and enjoy!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them together until fully blended.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, milk, and orange zest until smooth.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Add Almonds

Fold in the chopped almonds, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Bake

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

Cool and Serve

Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Slice and serve!

Enjoy this delightful dessert!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, drizzle some melted chocolate on top or serve with whipped cream for a richer experience.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once cooled, this loaf can be stored at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and freezing it. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. To serve, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and enjoy at room temperature, or pop a slice in the microwave for a warm treat that enhances the aromas.

For an elegant touch, serve slices topped with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea and can be adapted for various occasions by adding different toppings, such as chocolate ganache or citrus glaze.

Variations and Tips

If you want to experiment with flavors, try substituting the almonds with walnuts or pecans for a different nutty taste, or even add chocolate chips for extra richness. You can also play with the orange zest; using a blend of orange and lemon zest can provide a wonderfully refreshing twist to the flavor profile.

For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. Keep an eye on the moisture since these blends can behave differently; you may need to adjust the liquid content slightly to achieve the desired batter consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the butter?

Yes! You can use vegetable oil or coconut oil in equal amounts if you prefer.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Keep the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I use different nuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with walnuts or pecans if you like.

→ Is there a gluten-free option?

You can use a gluten-free flour blend if needed, though the texture may vary slightly.