Orange Bliss Choco Loaf

Orange Bliss Choco Loaf is a zesty and decadent treat that combines the refreshing flavor of orange with rich, velvety chocolate in a moist, soft loaf. This perfect dessert is great for brunch, a cozy afternoon snack, or any time you want a delightful citrus-chocolate combination. Here’s how to make this delightful loaf:

Ingredients:

For the Orange Chocolate Loaf:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1/2 cup sour cream or yogurt (for moisture)
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1 tbsp orange zest (from about 1 large orange)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate)

For the Orange Glaze:

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1/2 tsp orange zest

Optional Garnish:

• Orange slices or zest
• Additional chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Loaf:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan (or line with parchment paper).
• In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
• In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
• Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, orange juice, and orange zest until combined.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
• Gently fold in the sour cream or yogurt for extra moisture and richness.
• Lastly, fold in the chocolate chips or chopped chocolate, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

2. Bake the Loaf:

• Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
• Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean (a few moist crumbs are fine).
• Remove from the oven and let the loaf cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

3. Make the Orange Glaze:

• In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest until smooth.
• If the glaze is too thick, add a little more orange juice, a teaspoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.

4. Assemble and Serve:

• Once the loaf has cooled, drizzle the orange glaze over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides.
• Optionally, garnish with extra orange slices, zest, or chocolate chips for added texture and decoration.
• Slice into thick, moist pieces and enjoy!

Tips:

• For a more intense orange flavor, you can add more orange zest to the batter or glaze.
• If you like a richer chocolate experience, you can swirl in some additional chocolate chips into the batter before baking.

This Orange Bliss Choco Loaf offers a perfect balance of citrus and chocolate, with a delightful sweetness and moisture that makes it an irresistible treat.