Chocolate Orange Almond Loaf

Name: Chocolate Orange Almond Loaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; ¾ cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; ½ cup vegetable oil; 1 cup orange juice; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 1 teaspoon almond extract; ½ cup chopped almonds

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I’m thrilled to share my Chocolate Orange Almond Loaf recipe with you! Combining rich chocolate with the bright notes of orange zest creates a delightful harmony that’s simply irresistible. This loaf is not only moist and flavorful, but it's also enhanced by the crunch of almond pieces. Perfect for any occasion, whether you’re sharing with friends or enjoying a cozy evening at home. Bake this loaf and watch everyone come back for seconds—it’s that good!

Created by

Diana Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:28:08.060Z

When I first experimented with combining chocolate and orange, I knew I had struck gold. The fresh citrus elevates the deep chocolate perfectly, making each bite a burst of flavor. The initial idea came from wanting to create a traditional chocolate loaf with a twist, and it’s been a family favorite ever since.

One crucial tip I learned is to use high-quality cocoa powder for the best results. It really makes a difference in flavor. Also, adding a touch of almond extract ties the whole dessert together beautifully. Trust me, everyone will be asking for your secret!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Moist loaf with a delightful crunch from almonds
Perfect for gatherings or as an indulgent treat

      

Mastering the Balance of Flavors

To achieve the perfect balance of flavors in your Chocolate Orange Almond Loaf, pay attention to the quality of your ingredients. Use fresh orange juice and zest for a vibrant taste that complements the rich chocolate. This ensures the citrus notes are bright and aromatic, cutting through the richness of the cocoa. If you're in a pinch, bottled orange juice can work, but be wary of the added sugars and preservatives that may alter the flavor profile.

Almond extract adds a subtle yet impactful depth to the loaf. Make sure not to overdo it—just a teaspoon will enhance the overall flavor without overpowering the chocolate and orange. If you're looking for a nut-free version, you can omit the almond extract entirely, and the loaf will still be delightfully balanced due to the other flavor components.

Perfecting Texture

Achieving the ideal texture is crucial in this loaf. The combination of all-purpose flour and cocoa powder creates a tender crumb, while the chopped almonds introduce a satisfying crunch. Be careful not to overmix the batter when combining wet and dry ingredients, as this could lead to a denser loaf. Mix until just combined—small streaks of flour are perfectly fine and will bake out during cooking.

Baking the loaf at the right temperature is also important. Ensure your oven is properly preheated to 350°F (175°C) to allow for even rising and cooking. A loaf that's too dense may not fully bake, creating a wet center. Always perform the toothpick test: insert it into the center and check for moist crumbs—not wet batter—to ensure doneness.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your Chocolate Orange Almond Loaf.

Ingredients

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
½ cup vegetable oil
1 cup orange juice
1 tablespoon orange zest
1 teaspoon almond extract
½ cup chopped almonds

Make sure you have all the ingredients prepared before you start baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your delicious Chocolate Orange Almond Loaf.

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat the sugar and eggs together until pale. Add the oil, orange juice, orange zest, and almond extract, mixing well.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Gently stir in the chopped almonds.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice and enjoy!

Enjoy your delightful loaf with a cup of tea or coffee!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, drizzle melted chocolate on top of the cooled loaf before serving.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Chocolate Orange Almond Loaf can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep or gatherings. Once cooled completely, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend its life, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply remove it from the freezer the night before and let it sit at room temperature.

For optimal taste retention, consider slicing the loaf before freezing. This allows you to enjoy a slice whenever you like without having to defrost the entire loaf. Just remember to wrap each slice individually in freezer-safe wrap before placing them in a sealed bag.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Chocolate Orange Almond Loaf warm, topped with a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. You could also pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The contrasting temperatures create a delightful tasting experience that enhances the loaf's flavors.

For a more indulgent twist, serve slices with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a side of orange marmalade. This not only complements the loaf's flavors but also adds a beautiful presentation. Consider garnishing with additional chopped almonds or orange segments to elevate the visual appeal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of nut?

Absolutely! You can substitute the almonds with walnuts or pecans based on your preference.

→ Is it possible to make this loaf gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version.

→ How should I store the leftovers?

Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

→ Can I freeze this loaf?

Yes! Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months.