Chocolate Orange Almond Loaf

Name: Chocolate Orange Almond Loaf
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 8 slices
Ingredients: 200g all-purpose flour; 50g unsweetened cocoa powder; 150g sugar; 125g butter, softened; 3 large eggs; 100ml milk; Zest of 1 orange; 50g chopped almonds; 1 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp salt; 100g dark chocolate, melted

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love baking this Chocolate Orange Almond Loaf, especially when I want to impress my friends or indulge myself with something sweet. The combination of rich chocolate, zesty orange, and crunchy almonds creates a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. It's a simple recipe, yet it delivers such an elegant touch that makes it feel special for gatherings. The warm aroma that fills the kitchen while it bakes is enough to drive anyone wild with anticipation!

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2026-01-14T02:28:08.504Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I was intrigued by how the flavors of chocolate and orange could harmonize so beautifully. I followed a technique that involves folding in finely chopped almonds to give it a satisfying crunch! The key is to not overmix the batter; this ensures the loaf remains light and fluffy.

I've shared this loaf at several gatherings, and it has quickly become a crowd favorite. One tip I picked up is to let it cool completely before slicing; this makes it easier to cut and enhances the chocolate flavor. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

        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

      

Understanding Your Ingredients

The magic of the Chocolate Orange Almond Loaf lies in the quality of its ingredients. Using high-quality dark chocolate is essential, as it not only deepens the chocolate flavor but also adds a luxurious texture. When melted, it should be glossy and smooth, which indicates it's incorporated well. If you're concerned about using too much sugar, consider substituting part of it with coconut sugar, which can provide a subtle caramel flavor that complements the orange zest beautifully.

Fresh orange zest is another key element that elevates the flavor profile. The zest contains essential oils that impart a bright, citrusy aroma, perfectly balancing the richness of the chocolate. For a more intense orange flavor, you can add a splash of orange juice to the batter, adjusting the liquid amount slightly. The almonds should be roughly chopped to provide a delightful crunch without overpowering the loaf, creating that perfect textural contrast in every bite.

Baking Techniques for Success

Getting the batter right is crucial for achieving that perfectly moist and tender loaf. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, so fold the dry ingredients gently until just combined. You'll know it's ready when no visible flour streaks remain, but the batter is still slightly lumpy. Take care to leave it alone just after mixing; you want to preserve the airiness contributed by the eggs and incorporated fat, which contributes significantly to the loaf’s final rise and crumb structure.

When placing the loaf in the oven, ensure that it is centered for even heat distribution. Consider using an oven thermometer to guarantee your temperature settings are accurate; discrepancies can lead to undercooked or overcooked results. Check the loaf around the 40-minute mark, and watch for a domed shape and a slightly cracked top, indicating it is almost done. Insert a skewer into the center, and if it comes out clean, you can confidently remove it from the oven.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you begin:

Ingredients for Chocolate Orange Almond Loaf

200g all-purpose flour
50g unsweetened cocoa powder
150g sugar
125g butter, softened
3 large eggs
100ml milk
Zest of 1 orange
50g chopped almonds
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
100g dark chocolate, melted

Make sure to have all ingredients at room temperature for best results!

Instructions

To make the loaf, follow these steps:

Preparation

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line a loaf tin.

Mixing the Batter

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the milk and melted chocolate.

Combining Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding in well to combine without overmixing.

Adding Flavors

Fold in the orange zest and chopped almonds for added flavor and texture.

Baking

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin and smooth the top. Bake for 50 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cooling

Let the loaf cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Once cooled, slice and serve this delightful loaf with your favorite beverage!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, dust the cooled loaf with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple orange glaze.

Storing and Freezing

To preserve the freshness of your Chocolate Orange Almond Loaf, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before slicing.

If you're freezing individual slices, you can place parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. This way, you can easily take out a slice at a time for a quick treat, perfect for pairing with a cup of tea or coffee. Moreover, if you reheat the slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, they'll regain their delightful softness and melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Serving Suggestions

The Chocolate Orange Almond Loaf is versatile in its presentation. For an elegant touch, dust the top with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple chocolate glaze made from melted chocolate mixed with a tiny bit of cream. Garnishing with slivers of fresh orange or toasted almond slices can enhance visual appeal and emphasize those delightful flavors in the loaf.

Pairing your loaf with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can take it to the next level and make for a delightful dessert after dinner. Alternatively, serve it alongside a citrus salad for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chocolate. The balance of creaminess and citrus will impress your guests during gatherings or special occasions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute almond for another nut?

Absolutely, you can use walnuts or pecans if you prefer.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this loaf?

Yes, it freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil.

→ What type of chocolate works best?

I recommend using good quality dark chocolate for the best flavor.