Orange Bread Loaf
A moist and flavorful orange bread loaf featuring fresh orange peel and nuts, perfect for breakfast or tea-time treats, offering bright citrus notes and comforting texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel oranges and chop 1 1/2 cups of orange peel.
- Put peel into a saucepan with 1 cup of water.
- Boil for 3 minutes.
- Repeat boiling process two more times to soften the peel.
- Preheat oven and prepare a loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, mix flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
- Add melted Crisco, milk, beaten egg, and vanilla; mix well.
- Stir in prepared orange mixture and nuts until combined.
- Pour batter into prepared loaf pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove and cool completely on a wire rack.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the orange flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of orange zest to the batter. If you prefer a sweeter bread, increase the sugar to 1 1/4 cups. For a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts or substitute with chocolate chips. This recipe is versatile, so feel free to experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm touch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of Orange Bread Loaf with a smear of butter or cream cheese for an extra treat. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it a delightful breakfast or afternoon snack. For a more festive touch, consider drizzling a simple orange glaze on top or serving it alongside Maine Coffee Cake for a sweet brunch spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Orange Bread Loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it fresh for longer, wrap it in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for a week. To reheat, slice and warm in the microwave for about 15 seconds or toast lightly for a crunchy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange Bread Loaf contains roughly 668 calories, with 11g protein, 116g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (29% of the Daily Value), protein (22% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1369mg per serving (60% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other citrus fruits instead of oranges?
Yes, you can substitute oranges with lemons or grapefruits for a different flavor profile. Just ensure you adjust the sugar levels according to the tartness of the fruit you choose, especially with lemons, which may require more sugar to balance the acidity.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
You can make this Orange Bread Loaf healthier by using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. Additionally, consider reducing the sugar content and replacing it with honey or maple syrup. Using unsweetened applesauce in place of melted Crisco can also lower the fat content while keeping the bread moist.
What should I do if my bread doesn't rise?
If your bread doesn't rise, it may be due to expired baking powder. Always check the freshness of your leavening agents before baking. Additionally, make sure to mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined, as overmixing can lead to dense bread. If the oven temperature is too low, it can also affect the rise.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).