Chocolate Orange Walnut Snack Loaf

Name: Chocolate Orange Walnut Snack Loaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup buttermilk; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ cup chopped walnuts; Zest of 1 large orange

Highlighted under: Modern Baking Favorites

I absolutely adore this Chocolate Orange Walnut Snack Loaf! The delightful combination of rich chocolate and zesty orange creates an explosion of flavor that keeps me coming back for more. Every bite has the satisfying crunch of walnuts, which adds a wonderful texture to the moist loaf. It's perfect for an afternoon treat or a quick breakfast on the go. Plus, it’s easy to whip up, making it a staple in my baking repertoire!

Created by

Esme Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:49:34.961Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I was amazed at how well the flavors paired together. The cocoa powder lends a deep richness while the freshly grated orange zest brightens the loaf in a way that’s simply irresistible. I found that using room temperature ingredients helps everything blend more smoothly, resulting in an exceptionally moist texture!

Another tip I learned over the years is to slightly toast the walnuts before adding them to the batter. This brings out their flavor beautifully and adds an extra layer of depth to the loaf. Every slice sends me back to my happy baking memories!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

The Role of Ingredients

Understanding the function of each ingredient in the Chocolate Orange Walnut Snack Loaf is key to achieving the best results. The all-purpose flour provides the necessary structure, while the cocoa powder not only gives the loaves their rich color but also contributes to a deep chocolate flavor. The buttermilk adds moisture and a slight tang, which perfectly complements the sweetness of the sugar. If you need a substitute, you can use yogurt or milk mixed with a little vinegar for a similar effect.

Using large, fresh eggs is essential to ensure the air is properly incorporated into the batter. This will help achieve a light and fluffy texture. Remember that the zest of the orange is not just for flavor; it also enhances the aroma of the loaf, making it more inviting. Freshly grated zest provides a brighter taste compared to dried options, so I recommend avoiding the dried stuff for the best outcome.

Technique for Perfect Baking

When mixing the wet and dry ingredients, it's important to stir gently and avoid overmixing. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf that lacks the desired airy texture. Aim for a slightly lumpy batter, as it will result in a more tender loaf. Use a rubber spatula to fold in the walnuts and orange zest; this gentle technique helps maintain the integrity of the additions while ensuring they are evenly distributed.

Baking times can vary slightly based on your oven, so it's crucial to start checking for doneness a few minutes early. You can test it by inserting a toothpick into the center of the loaf; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If it’s still wet, continue baking and check every few minutes. This attention to detail can help you avoid an underbaked loaf.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make a delicious Chocolate Orange Walnut Snack Loaf:

For the Loaf

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup buttermilk
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup chopped walnuts
Zest of 1 large orange

Make sure to measure your ingredients carefully for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect Chocolate Orange Walnut Snack Loaf:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing.

Add Walnuts and Zest

Fold in the chopped walnuts and orange zest until evenly distributed.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Orange Walnut Snack Loaf with a cup of tea or coffee!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute the walnuts with pecans or even add chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey treat.

Storage Solutions

To keep your Chocolate Orange Walnut Snack Loaf fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will remain delicious for about three days. If you want it to last longer, consider freezing individual slices. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil; this helps prevent freezer burn and retains moisture. Simply thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy another slice.

If you find yourself with leftover loaf, try toasting slices before serving. A quick toast in a skillet can reintroduce some crunch and warmth, enhancing the overall flavor. Adding a dab of butter or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top while toasting can elevate the experience even further.

Creative Serving Suggestions

For a delightful treat, try serving slices of the loaf with a side of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold, creamy textures contrast beautifully with the rich chocolate and zesty orange, making each bite an indulgent experience. You could even drizzle a little chocolate sauce over the top for an extra touch of luxury.

Another fun idea is to transform leftover slices into a bread pudding. Simply cube the loaf, mix it with eggs, milk, and a touch of cinnamon, and bake until golden. This is a fantastic way to use up leftovers and create a new dessert that still celebrates the wonderful flavors of your original bake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the texture may be denser.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the loaf?

Yes, you can freeze the loaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing.

→ What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can make a quick substitute for buttermilk by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes.