Chocolate Orange Walnut Snack Loaf

Name: Chocolate Orange Walnut Snack 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; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tsp baking soda; ½ tsp salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup buttermilk; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Zest of 1 orange; 1 cup chopped walnuts

Highlighted under: Modern Kitchen

When I first experimented with this Chocolate Orange Walnut Snack Loaf, I was amazed by how the bold chocolate flavor harmonizes with the fresh citrus notes of orange. The addition of walnuts gives a delightful crunch that elevates the loaf to a whole new level. I love enjoying a slice with my afternoon tea, and it never fails to impress friends and family. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also perfect for any occasion, be it a cozy hangout or a festive gathering.

Created by

Rhiannon Sutherland

Last updated on 2026-01-14T08:05:34.468Z

In my quest to create the perfect snack loaf, I found that blending rich chocolate with zesty orange not only satisfied my sweet tooth but also created a unique flavor profile. Baking is all about balance, and this combination truly delivers. I discovered that toasting the walnuts enhances their nuttiness, adding depth to each slice.

While testing different baking times, I realized that a lower temperature allows the loaf to cook evenly, ensuring it stays moist inside while developing a beautiful crust outside. Every bite of this loaf is a true indulgence!

        Why You Will 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

      

Perfecting the Texture

Achieving the perfect texture in your Chocolate Orange Walnut Snack Loaf is an art form. The combination of buttermilk and melted butter contributes to a moist and tender crumb. Make sure not to overmix when blending the wet and dry ingredients; this prevents the loaf from becoming dense. Instead, mix until just combined, leaving some lumps in the batter. This ensures that your loaf remains light and airy with a delightful crumb.

When it comes to baking, every oven is different. If this is your first time making this loaf, check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time of 50 minutes. Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. This simple test can help you avoid overbaking, which can lead to a dry loaf.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

If you're looking to make the Chocolate Orange Walnut Snack Loaf gluten-free, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. However, ensure that it contains xanthan gum to maintain the loaf's structure. Additionally, you can swap the granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a sweetener of your choice for a lower glycemic index option.

For an added burst of flavor, consider incorporating chocolate chips along with the walnuts. You can use dark or milk chocolate chips, depending on your taste preference. If you'd like a more intense orange flavor, add a tablespoon of orange juice to the wet ingredients. This brings a refreshing zest that complements the cocoa beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start baking:

Ingredients for Chocolate Orange Walnut Snack Loaf

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
2 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tsp vanilla extract
Zest of 1 orange
1 cup chopped walnuts

Make sure to measure everything accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious loaf:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch loaf pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat the eggs, then stir in the buttermilk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and orange zest.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Add Walnuts

Gently fold in the chopped walnuts, ensuring an even distribution throughout the batter.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Enjoy your homemade loaf as a delightful snack!

Pro Tips

For a more intense orange flavor, you can add a few tablespoons of fresh orange juice to the batter. Also, consider serving it warm with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat!

Serving Suggestions

This Chocolate Orange Walnut Snack Loaf pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. For an indulgent treat, drizzle a simple glaze over the top made from powdered sugar and orange juice. It adds a sweet finish and enhances the citrus notes, making it visually appealing for guests during gatherings or celebrations.

If you're serving this loaf for breakfast or brunch, consider toasting slices lightly and spreading cream cheese or mascarpone on top. This adds a rich creaminess that enhances the chocolate and orange flavors, turning a simple snack into a gourmet experience.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

To keep your Chocolate Orange Walnut Snack Loaf fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week, or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving for the best texture.

This loaf is also a great make-ahead option. You can prepare the batter a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. Just remember to bring the batter to room temperature before pouring it into the loaf pan, as this will help the loaf rise evenly and maintain its fluffy texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?

Absolutely! Pecans or almonds would work great as alternatives.

→ How should I store the loaf?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze this snack loaf?

Yes, you can freeze it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can make your own buttermilk by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for 5 minutes.