A delicious treat perfect for any occasion, Orange Zucchini Bread with Orange Glaze is a delightful combination of moist zucchini and fresh orange flavor. This bread is not only easy to make but also offers a sweet, citrusy twist that will impress your guests. Ideal for brunches, afternoon snacks, or even as a dessert, this recipe stands out with its unique blend of flavors and textures.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Moist Texture: The combination of zucchini and oil ensures this bread stays incredibly moist.
Zesty Flavor: Fresh orange juice and zest bring a vibrant flavor that brightens every bite.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip this up effortlessly.
Versatile: Serve it as breakfast, a snack, or a dessert—this bread fits all occasions.
Delicious Glaze: The orange glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness that perfectly complements the bread.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Gather these items before you start:

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowls
Whisk
Grater
9×5 inch loaf pan
Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowls: These are crucial for combining ingredients evenly without spills.
Whisk: A whisk helps incorporate air into your batter, contributing to the light texture of the bread.
Grater: Using a grater makes it easy to prepare zucchini quickly without any fuss.

Ingredients

For the Bread

3 large eggs
2 cups sugar
1 cup vegetable or canola oil
1 tsp. vanilla
zest and juice of 1 large orange
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. cardamom (optional)
1/4 tsp. baking soda
2 cups grated zucchini

For the Orange Glaze

zest and juice of 1 large orange
3 tbsp. butter (melted)
1 tsp. vanilla
3 cups powdered sugar

How to Make Orange Zucchini Bread with Orange Glaze

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking for your bread.

Step 2: Prepare the Pan

Grease your 9×5 inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
1. Eggs
2. Sugar
3. Vegetable oil
4. Vanilla extract
5. Zest and juice of one large orange

Whisk these ingredients together until well blended.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Salt
3. Cardamom (if using)
4. Baking soda

Gradually add the dry mixture into your wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.

Step 5: Incorporate Zucchini

Fold in the grated zucchini carefully using a rubber spatula until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 6: Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top. Bake for about 70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 7: Prepare the Glaze

While the bread cools, mix together in a bowl:
1. Zest and juice from one large orange
2. Melted butter
3. Vanilla extract
4. Powdered sugar

Stir until you achieve a smooth glaze consistency.

Step 8: Glaze the Bread

Once cooled, drizzle the orange glaze over your zucchini bread allowing it to soak in slightly before slicing and serving.

Enjoy every bite of this delightful Orange Zucchini Bread with Orange Glaze, perfect for any time you crave something sweet!

How to Serve Orange Zucchini Bread with Orange Glaze

Orange zucchini bread with orange glaze is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack, it pairs beautifully with many accompaniments.

Breakfast Delight

With Coffee: Enjoy a slice alongside your morning coffee for an energizing start to the day.
Cream Cheese Spread: Add a layer of cream cheese for a rich and creamy contrast to the sweet bread.

Afternoon Snack

Fruit Pairings: Serve with fresh fruit slices like strawberries or kiwi for a refreshing and colorful plate.
Nut Butter: Spread almond or peanut butter on a slice for added protein and flavor.

Dessert Option

A La Mode: Top warm slices with your favorite dairy-free ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Whipped Topping: Garnish with some coconut whipped cream for a light and airy finish.

How to Perfect Orange Zucchini Bread with Orange Glaze

Making the perfect orange zucchini bread requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance your baking experience.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure that your eggs, flour, and zucchini are fresh for the best flavor and texture.
Grate Zucchini Well: Grate the zucchini finely to ensure it incorporates smoothly into the batter, adding moisture without affecting the texture.
Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to keep the bread light and fluffy. Overmixing can make it dense.
Check Doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when the bread is done baking.
Cool Before Slicing: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to keep it moist and prevent crumbling.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Zucchini Bread with Orange Glaze

Pairing sides with your orange zucchini bread can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options.

Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a wholesome breakfast option.
Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with citrus vinaigrette complements the sweetness of the bread perfectly.
Herbed Cream Cheese Dip: Serve this savory dip alongside slices of bread for a delightful contrast.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad balances the sweetness of the zucchini bread nicely.
Roasted Nuts: A bowl of seasoned roasted nuts provides crunch and flavor that pair well with each bite.
Chia Seed Pudding: This nutritious pudding offers a healthy side that enhances your meal’s overall appeal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making orange zucchini bread with orange glaze can be easy, but some common mistakes can ruin your delicious creation.

Skipping the Zucchini Grating – Not grating the zucchini finely may result in uneven texture. Always grate it well for a consistent mix.
Overmixing the Batter – Overmixing can lead to dense bread. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
Ignoring Oven Temperature – Baking at the wrong temperature can affect cooking time. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
Not Using Fresh Ingredients – Old baking powder or stale flour can impact rise and flavor. Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best results.
Lacking Flavor Balance – Too much sugar or not enough orange zest can throw off flavors. Adjust sweetness and citrus to suit your taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Optionally, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap before placing it in a container.

Freezing Orange Zucchini Bread with Orange Glaze

Freeze slices in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Ensure each slice is separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Reheating Orange Zucchini Bread with Orange Glaze

Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the bread in foil and heat for 10-15 minutes until warm.
Microwave – Place a slice on a plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 15-20 seconds.
Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over low heat, covered, for about 5 minutes on each side until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making orange zucchini bread with orange glaze, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

How do I ensure my Orange Zucchini Bread with Orange Glaze stays moist?

Adding grated zucchini is key as it provides moisture. Also, avoid overbaking to keep it from drying out.

Can I use other fruits in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute or add fruits like apples or peaches along with the orange for added flavor.

What can I use instead of vegetable oil?

You may use melted coconut oil or applesauce as healthier alternatives without sacrificing moisture.

How long does this bread last at room temperature?

The bread stays fresh at room temperature for about 2-3 days if stored properly in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

This orange zucchini bread with orange glaze is incredibly moist and bursting with flavor. Its versatility makes it perfect for breakfast or as a delightful snack. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or spices based on your preferences!

Orange Zucchini Bread with Orange Glaze

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Indulge in the delightful taste of Orange Zucchini Bread with Orange Glaze, a perfect blend of moist zucchini and zesty orange flavor. This easy-to-make bread is a versatile treat that suits any occasion, from brunch to dessert. Each bite offers a refreshing citrus twist complemented by a sweet glaze, making it an impressive addition to your baking repertoire.

Author: Natalie
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 70 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

3 large eggs
2 cups sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
1 tsp vanilla extract
Zest and juice of 1 large orange
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1 tsp cardamom (optional)
1/4 tsp baking soda
2 cups grated zucchini

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, oil, vanilla, and orange zest and juice until well combined.
In another bowl, mix the flour, salt, cardamom (if using), and baking soda. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
Fold in the grated zucchini gently with a rubber spatula until evenly incorporated.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
For the glaze, mix together orange zest and juice, melted butter, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar until smooth.
Once the bread is cooled, drizzle the glaze over it before slicing.