Chocolate Orange Walnut Snack Loaf

Name: Chocolate Orange Walnut Snack Loaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tsp baking soda; ½ tsp salt; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup buttermilk; Zest of 1 large orange; 1 cup chopped walnuts; ½ cup chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Classic Baking Favorites

I absolutely love baking this Chocolate Orange Walnut Snack Loaf! The combination of rich chocolate, the zesty brightness of orange, and the crunch of walnuts creates a deliciously unique treat. Each slice is a warm hug, perfect for tea time or dessert. What makes it even better is how simple it is to whip up. It's a loaf that’s bound to impress both friends and family, while also being a little indulgent for yourself. I can't wait for you to try this satisfying recipe!

Created by

Beatrice Holloway

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:29:36.437Z

When I first tried adding orange zest to a chocolate loaf, I was skeptical. However, the moment I took my first bite, I was hooked! The citrus elevates the chocolate flavor, making it taste incredibly vibrant. I recommend using fresh orange zest for the best results.

This Chocolate Orange Walnut Snack Loaf has become a go-to in my kitchen. The walnuts add a satisfying crunch, while the loaf stays wonderfully moist. I love serving it warm with a dusting of powdered sugar. You won't believe how easy it is to create such a delightful treat!

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

Ingredient Insights

The combination of cocoa powder and granulated sugar in this recipe creates a wonderfully balanced sweetness that enhances the overall flavor without overwhelming it. Unsweetened cocoa powder offers a rich, deep chocolate taste that is essential for achieving the distinctive flavor profile of this loaf. If you want a deeper chocolate intensity, you can try using dark cocoa powder instead, which will elevate the richness while maintaining a slightly bitter undertone that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the orange and sugar.

Butter plays a crucial role in this recipe, lending moisture and a tender crumb to the loaf. For a lighter texture, I recommend using room temperature butter rather than cold, as it incorporates better with the sugar, creating a smoother batter. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute softened coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative, ensuring that it’s also unsweetened to preserve the flavor balance.

Techniques for Success

When mixing the ingredients, be careful not to overmix the batter once the dry and wet ingredients are combined. Overmixing can develop gluten, leading to a dense loaf rather than the light, fluffy texture we desire. Mix until just combined and you see no flour streaks. The lumps in the batter will bake out, leading to a beautifully structured loaf, so don’t worry about perfection at this stage!

Baking times can vary based on your oven and the material of your loaf pan. A metal pan generally conducts heat better than glass, so you may need to adjust the baking time accordingly. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your loaf is perfect. If it comes out wet, return it to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes and check again.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Chocolate Orange Walnut Snack Loaf

Dry Ingredients

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup buttermilk
Zest of 1 large orange

Final Additions

1 cup chopped walnuts
½ cup chocolate chips

Instructions:

Instructions

How to Make Chocolate Orange Walnut Snack Loaf

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla, buttermilk, and orange zest.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually mix in the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in the walnuts and chocolate chips.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool before slicing.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra moisture, you can add a tablespoon of orange juice to the batter. If you prefer a sweeter loaf, you can sprinkle chocolate chips on top before baking.

Serving Suggestions

This Chocolate Orange Walnut Snack Loaf is perfect for serving with tea or coffee during an afternoon break. It pairs delightfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for a decadent dessert experience. Consider dusting the loaf with powdered sugar for a decorative touch that adds a hint of sweetness and visual appeal.

For a fun twist, serve the loaf with a citrus glaze made from powdered sugar and fresh orange juice. Drizzle this over the top right before serving to bring an extra burst of flavor and moisture. You can also sprinkle more chopped walnuts on top for added crunch and an appealing aesthetic.

Storage and Freezing Tips

To maintain the freshness of your Chocolate Orange Walnut Snack Loaf, wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to three days. If you prefer it warm, simply give it a quick reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds before serving. Alternatively, you can store it in the refrigerator for a longer shelf life, though this may slightly alter the texture.

For long-term storage, slice the loaf and wrap each piece individually before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy a slice whenever you crave this delightful treat. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight or place it directly in a microwave for about 30-45 seconds to enjoy a warm slice again.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different nuts instead of walnuts?

Absolutely! Pecans or hazelnuts would work beautifully in this recipe.

→ How should I store the loaf?

Store the loaf 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! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with the Chocolate Orange Walnut Snack Loaf?

It's delicious on its own, but a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce takes it to the next level!