Orange Bliss Pumpkin Loaves: A Citrus-infused Autumn Delight 🍊🎃

Orange Pumpkin Bread Recipe

🕒 Prep Time: 20 minutes
🕒 Cook Time: 1 hour
🕒 Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
🥖 Yield: 2 loaves

Description:

Indulge in the delightful flavors of fall with this moist and flavorful Orange Pumpkin Bread. Bursting with the essence of oranges and the comforting warmth of pumpkin spice, this bread is perfect for breakfast, snack time, or even dessert. Share the joy of baking by whipping up this easy recipe and spreading the aroma of freshly baked goodness in your home!

Ingredients:

• 2/3 cup shortening
• 2 2/3 cups sugar
• 1 orange
• 2/3 cup water
• 4 eggs
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 3 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon ground clove
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 2/3 cup chopped pecans
• 2/3 cup chopped dates

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9×5-inch loaf pans to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare Orange Puree:

   • Begin by cutting the whole orange into wedges, removing any seeds and membranes. Place the orange wedges in a blender along with the water, and puree until smooth.

3. Cream Shortening and Sugar:

   • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the shortening and sugar until light and fluffy, ensuring they are thoroughly combined.

4. Incorporate Wet Ingredients:

   • Add the orange puree to the creamed mixture, followed by the eggs and pumpkin puree. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

5. Combine Dry Ingredients:

   • In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, clove, and baking powder.

6. Mix Batter:

   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the pumpkin mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
   • Gently fold in the chopped pecans and dates (or raisins) until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

7. Fill Loaf Pans:

   • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared loaf pans, spreading it out evenly.

8. Bake:

   • Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaves comes out clean.
   • Keep an eye on the loaves towards the end of the baking time to prevent over-browning.

9. Cool and Serve:

   • Once baked, remove the loaves from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes.
   • Carefully transfer the loaves to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
   • Enjoy slices of this delightful Orange Pumpkin Bread on its own, or with a dollop of whipped cream or a spread of butter.

Indulge in the cozy flavors of autumn with each bite of this Orange Pumpkin Bread. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, as a snack, or as a sweet treat after dinner, its moist texture and aromatic spices are sure to delight your taste buds and warm your soul. Share this recipe with friends and family to spread the joy of homemade baked goods all season long!