Orange Tea Bread
Orange Tea Bread offers a delightful blend of citrus flavors with a moist, tender crumb. The aroma of orange and lemon rinds combined with toasted pecans makes it a perfect breakfast treat or afternoon snack, appealing to those who enjoy sweet, citrus-infused baked goods with a crunchy nutty finish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour, sugar, salt, and soda in a bowl.
- Add the beaten egg, melted butter, grated orange rind, grated lemon rind, orange juice, and chopped pecans. Mix well.
- Pour the batter into a greased and floured 5 x 9 x 3-inch loaf pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, sift the flour before measuring. You can substitute the pecans with walnuts or omit nuts altogether for a nut-free version. If you prefer a sweeter bread, increase the sugar by 1/4 cup. Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon for a warm flavor twist that complements the citrus. This bread can also be transformed into a delightful dessert by glazing it with a simple orange icing.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the Orange Tea Bread and serve it warm or at room temperature. It's perfect for breakfast, paired with butter or cream cheese. You can also enjoy it as a snack with a cup of tea or coffee. For a refreshing twist, serve alongside a fruit salad or yogurt. This bread pairs beautifully with a variety of vegetarian recipes, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Orange Tea Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or toast them for a few minutes until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange Tea Bread contains roughly 587 calories, with 6g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value), calcium (11% of the Daily Value), and iron (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1054mg per serving (46% 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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition. However, keep in mind that this may alter the texture slightly, making it denser. It's best to use a mix if you're looking for a balance between health and the traditional texture.
What can I do if I don't have orange juice?
If you don't have orange juice on hand, you can substitute it with an equal amount of apple juice or lemon juice mixed with some water to reduce acidity. Alternatively, make a citrus blend by mixing equal parts of lemon and grapefruit juice for a unique flavor profile.
How can I enhance the flavor of the bread?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding spices like nutmeg or allspice. You can also incorporate dried fruits such as cranberries or raisins for added sweetness and texture. Another option is to drizzle a simple citrus glaze over the top once the bread has cooled, elevating its presentation and taste.
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).