Overview
Orange bread is a delightful treat that combines the zest and juice of fresh oranges with the comforting softness of bread. This recipe yields a loaf that is both moist and bursting with citrus flavor, making it perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice, this easy-to-follow guide will help you create a delicious orange bread that will impress your family and friends.
Nutritional Value
Orange bread not only tastes amazing but also offers nutritional benefits. Here’s a quick look at the nutritional values per serving (based on 10 servings per loaf):
- Calories: 200
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 4g
- Vitamin C: 15% of the daily value
- Calcium: 6% of the daily value
- Iron: 4% of the daily value
Ingredients
To make this soft and delicious orange bread, you will need the following ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
– ½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons orange zest (from about 2 oranges)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– ½ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the sugar and eggs together until light and fluffy. Gradually add the melted butter, mixing well. Stir in the orange juice, orange zest, vanilla extract, and Greek yogurt.
4. Combine Ingredients: Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Standout Features
– Moist Texture: The use of Greek yogurt or sour cream ensures that the bread stays moist and tender.
– Citrus Flavor: Fresh orange juice and zest give the bread a bright, citrusy flavor.
-Versatility: This bread can be enjoyed plain, with butter, or even toasted with a bit of cream cheese.
Creative Service Ideas
1. Orange Bread French Toast: Slice the orange bread and dip it in a mixture of eggs, milk, and cinnamon. Cook on a griddle until golden brown for a citrusy twist on traditional French toast.
2. Orange Bread Pudding: Use stale orange bread to make a delicious bread pudding. Cube the bread and soak it in a mixture of eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla. Bake until set for a comforting dessert.
3. Orange Bread Sandwich: Use slices of orange bread to make a unique sandwich. Try it with ham and Swiss cheese for a sweet and savory combination.
Alternative Uses for Ingredients
– Orange Juice: Use leftover orange juice in smoothies, marinades, or salad dressings.
– Orange Zest: Add zest to baked goods like cookies, muffins, or cakes for an extra burst of flavor.
– Greek Yogurt: Enjoy Greek yogurt as a snack, in parfaits, or as a substitute for sour cream in recipes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
A: Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for a portion of the all-purpose flour. However, the texture will be denser.
Q: How should I store orange bread?
A: Store orange bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I add nuts or dried fruit to the recipe?
A: Absolutely Chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, or dried fruits, like cranberries or raisins, make great additions to this bread.
Q: Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?
A: Yes, you can divide the batter into a muffin tin and bake at the same temperature for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Conclusion
This soft and delicious orange bread recipe is a must-try for any baking enthusiast. With its moist texture, vibrant citrus flavor, and versatility, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you enjoy it plain, as French toast, or in a creative sandwich, this bread is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed any time of the day. Happy baking