Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Yes! To make this bread gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend that includes xanthan gum. This will ensure the bread retains its structure and texture. Follow the recipe as written for the rest of the ingredients and instructions.

How long does orange bread stay fresh?

Orange bread stays fresh for 2–3 days at room temperature when stored in an airtight container or wrapped tightly. If refrigerated, it lasts up to 1 week , and you can freeze it for 2–3 months for longer storage.

What other citrus fruits can I use in this recipe?

You can easily swap oranges for other citrus fruits to create different flavors: Lemon: For a tangier bread, use fresh lemon zest and juice. Lime: Add lime zest and juice for a tropical twist. Grapefruit: Use grapefruit zest and juice for a slightly bitter but delicious variation.

Can I make orange bread without eggs?

Yes! Replace each egg with one of these alternatives: Flaxseed Meal: Mix 1 tablespoon flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons water for each egg. Let it sit for 5 minutes before adding. Applesauce: Use ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce per egg for a vegan-friendly and moist result.

Why is my orange bread dense?

A dense loaf is usually caused by overmixing the batter or using too much flour. Be sure to measure flour correctly (using the scoop-and-level method) and mix the ingredients just until combined to avoid overworking the gluten.

Can I use orange extract instead of fresh oranges?

While fresh oranges provide the best flavor, you can use 1–2 teaspoons of orange extract in place of zest and juice. Add a bit of water to compensate for the liquid if needed.

Homemade Orange Bread Recipe: A Zesty Delight You’ll Love

Description

Homemade Orange Bread Recipe 🍊
This moist and flavorful orange bread is a perfect balance of citrusy sweetness and buttery richness. Whether served plain, glazed, or with your favorite toppings, it’s sure to become a household favorite!

Ingredients

For the Bread:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
½ cup fresh orange juice (about 2–3 oranges)
2 tablespoons orange zest
½ cup plain yogurt or sour cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Additions:

½ cup chopped nuts or dried cranberries
½ cup mini chocolate chips

For the Glaze (Optional):

1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
1 teaspoon orange zest

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
Prepare the Oranges: Zest and juice the oranges to get 2 tablespoons of zest and ½ cup of juice.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, cream softened butter. Beat in eggs, one at a time. Add orange juice, zest, yogurt, and vanilla extract, mixing well.
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
Add Optional Extras: If using nuts, cranberries, or chocolate chips, gently fold them into the batter.
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optional Glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, and zest. Drizzle over the cooled bread.

Notes

Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week.
For a vegan option, replace eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water = 1 egg).

Enjoy your homemade orange bread! 🍊