Chocolate Orange Walnut Snack Loaf

Name: Chocolate Orange Walnut Snack Loaf
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup walnuts, chopped

Highlighted under: Oven Meals

I absolutely love baking indulgent snacks, and this Chocolate Orange Walnut Snack Loaf has become one of my favorites. The combination of rich chocolate and bright orange zest fills my kitchen with an irresistible aroma, creating a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweetness and nuttiness. Each slice offers a moist, tender texture that pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. It's perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a quick pick-me-up during a busy day. I can’t wait for you to try this delectable loaf!

Created by

Honor Blackwell

Last updated on 2026-01-14T07:37:35.125Z

When I first tried my hand at baking this Chocolate Orange Walnut Snack Loaf, I was amazed at how well the flavors complemented each other. The richness of chocolate brings out the citrusy notes of orange, creating a taste experience that’s both satisfying and refreshing. I learned that adding the orange zest at the right moment ensures the oils are released into the batter, enhancing the flavor.

After several attempts, I found mixing the walnuts in just before pouring the batter into the pan keeps them from sinking to the bottom. This not only adds texture but also allows for that crunch in every bite. It’s become a staple in my home, and I hope it makes its way to yours as well!

        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 Key Ingredients

The flavors in this Chocolate Orange Walnut Snack Loaf are built upon the interaction between cocoa powder and orange zest. Cocoa powder not only provides a rich, deep flavor but also contributes to the loaf's tender crumb. Orange zest, on the other hand, adds a refreshing brightness that cuts through the sweetness. Be sure to use fresh orange zest to achieve the best flavor; the oils in the zest elevate the loaf’s aroma and taste significantly.

Walnuts play a crucial role in adding texture and depth to this loaf. They bring a delightful crunch and their natural oils contribute to a moist crumb. If you have nut allergies or prefer a different texture, you can substitute walnuts with toasted pumpkin seeds or even dark chocolate chips for a fun twist. Each change will bring a unique flavor profile, allowing you to customize the loaf to your taste.

Baking Insights

Baking temperature and time are vital in achieving the perfect loaf. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and be diligent about the baking time; typically, the loaf will bake for about 60 minutes. However, every oven is unique, so start checking at the 50-minute mark. You're looking for a toothpick inserted into the center to come out with just a few moist crumbs to ensure that the loaf is perfectly baked.

After you take the loaf out of the oven, allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes in the pan then transfer it to a wire rack. This step is important; cooling too quickly can cause the moist loaf to crack. If you’re feeling indulgent, consider drizzling a light orange glaze over the top once the loaf has cooled, which will enhance the flavors even further.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Chocolate Orange Walnut Snack Loaf is fantastic for making ahead of time. You can bake it and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag before freezing. It can last up to three months in the freezer, making it a convenient option for unexpected guests or a quick snack.

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen loaf, simply let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. For a warm treat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices for about 10 minutes. This restores the loaf's moist texture and enhances the chocolate and orange flavors, offering a freshly-baked experience each time.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start:

For the Loaf

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1/2 cup buttermilk
1 tablespoon orange zest
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup walnuts, chopped

Make sure everything is measured accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to create the perfect loaf:

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Cream Butter and Eggs

In another bowl, cream the softened butter until smooth, then add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Combine Wet Ingredients

Stir in buttermilk, orange zest, and vanilla extract into the butter mixture.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chopped walnuts.

Bake the Loaf

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Orange Walnut Snack Loaf!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle a simple orange icing over the top once the loaf has cooled. Simply mix powdered sugar with orange juice until you reach your desired consistency!

Serving Suggestions

Pairing this snack loaf with beverages can elevate your tasting experience. A cup of freshly brewed tea or coffee complements the chocolate and orange flavors beautifully. I personally enjoy it with a light Earl Grey tea, as the bergamot notes harmonize with the citrus in the loaf. Additionally, serve slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

For added flair, you can sprinkle some extra chopped walnuts or a dusting of powdered sugar on top before serving. These little touches not only enhance the presentation but also offer a delightful textural contrast against the moistness of the loaf.

Recipe Variations

If you're looking to switch things up, consider replacing the walnuts with hazelnuts for a different nutty flavor profile. Hazelnuts' sweet, buttery notes pair exquisitely with the chocolate and orange. You might also experiment with adding chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey richness that adds to the decadent experience of this loaf.

For a lower-sugar alternative, you can use honey or agave syrup in place of granulated sugar. Keep in mind, though, that your baking time might vary slightly with substitutes as they can change the moisture content of the batter. Monitor the texture of the batter; it should be pourable but not too runny when you’re ready to bake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the walnuts?

Yes, you can use pecans or even chocolate chips for a different texture and flavor.

→ What can I use instead of buttermilk?

You can make a quick substitute by mixing 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

→ How should I store the loaf?

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

→ Can I freeze the Chocolate Orange Walnut Snack Loaf?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.