Chocolate Chip Orange Bliss Loaf

Chocolate Chip Orange Loaf Cake

Cook Time: 1 hour
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Description: This Chocolate Chip Orange Loaf Cake is a delightful treat that merges the best of both cake and bread worlds. With its tender crumb, subtle sweetness, and the tantalizing hint of orange, it creates a harmonious blend that intensifies the rich flavor of chocolate. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate a loaf cake that’s not overly sweet, making it a wonderful companion to a steaming cup of coffee. Whether you’re enjoying it as a dessert or a cozy snack, this easy-to-make loaf requires just a few simple steps, all done by hand—no need for mixers or beaters. While the original recipe includes walnuts, feel free to omit them or include them based on your preference.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup walnuts (optional)
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 1 tablespoon orange rind (grated)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips (divided)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that the oven reaches the perfect temperature for baking your cake evenly.

2. Prepare the Pan: Grease and lightly flour an 8 1/2 x 4 1/2 inch loaf pan. This preparation helps to prevent the cake from sticking to the pan and ensures a smooth release once it’s baked.

3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda. Add the sugar and stir until well combined. If you’re using walnuts, add them to the mixture along with 3/4 cup of the chocolate chips.

4. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, beat the egg. Then, add the milk, orange juice, grated orange rind, and vanilla extract, mixing until well incorporated. Blend in the softened butter or margarine until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

5. Incorporate Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gently fold the egg mixture into the flour mixture. Be careful not to overmix—fold just until the dry ingredients are moistened and combined. This ensures a tender loaf without overworking the batter.

6. Add to Pan: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips on top, distributing them evenly for a delightful burst of chocolate in each slice.

7. Bake the Cake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55 to 60 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a wooden pick into the center of the loaf; it should come out clean when the cake is done.

8. Cool and Serve: Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

This Chocolate Chip Orange Loaf Cake is perfect for any occasion, from a casual afternoon treat to a special dessert. Its combination of chocolate and orange creates a unique flavor profile that’s sure to please your taste buds. Enjoy with a cup of coffee or as a sweet indulgence on its own! 🍊🍫