Glazed Cream Cheese Orange Loaf – Get ready to experience a slice of citrus heaven with our Glazed Cream Cheese Orange Loaf! This delightful recipe combines the tangy goodness of oranges with the rich creaminess of cream cheese, resulting in a loaf that is moist, flavorful, and absolutely irresistible. The combination of zesty orange juice, fragrant zest, and velvety cream cheese creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re a fan of citrus desserts or looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to impress. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into the world of this scrumptious treat!
Picture this: a lazy Sunday morning, the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the house, and the sound of laughter filling the kitchen. That’s the scene that unfolds every time I whip up a Glazed Cream Cheese Orange Loaf for my husband and our little family. This recipe holds a special place in our hearts because it brings back memories of cozy weekend mornings spent together, savoring every bite of this delectable treat. From the moment the loaf goes into the oven, anticipation builds, and the joy on my loved ones’ faces when they take their first bite is priceless. This recipe has become a cherished staple in our household, and I’m thrilled to share it with you today.
Why This Tangy Glazed Cream Cheese Orange Loaf is a Must-Try?
- Bursting with Citrus Flavors: The combination of orange juice, zest, and optional orange extract gives this loaf a vibrant, citrusy taste that will invigorate your senses.
- Creamy Dreamy Cream Cheese: The addition of cream cheese not only adds a velvety texture but also infuses the loaf with a rich, indulgent flavor that perfectly complements the citrus notes.
- Irresistibly Moist: Thanks to the careful balance of ingredients, this loaf turns out incredibly moist and tender, ensuring each bite is a heavenly delight.
- Simple yet Satisfying: With everyday pantry ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is accessible to all levels of bakers. You don’t need to be a pastry chef to create a masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (240g)
- 1 cup sugar (200g)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature (226g)
- 1/4 cup orange juice (60ml)
- 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, room temperature (226g)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon orange extract, optional
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Glaze:
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar (180g)
- 3-5 tablespoons orange juice (45-75ml)
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) and generously grease a 9×5-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. You can also use two loaf dishes if desired.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, orange zest, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl or mixer, cream together the butter, cream cheese, and sugar for 3-4 minutes, or until smooth. Mix in the eggs, orange juice, vanilla extract, and optional orange extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Transfer the batter to the greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
While the loaf is baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest. Adjust the consistency by adding more or less orange juice to achieve your desired thickness.
Once the loaf is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 15 minutes. Run a knife around the edge of the pan to loosen the loaf.
Invert the loaf onto a serving platter and pour the glaze over the top. Allow the glaze to harden, then serve the loaf at room temperature.
Notes:
- For a burst of extra citrus flavor, you can add a teaspoon of orange extract to the batter.
- If desired, you can divide the batter into two loaf dishes for smaller loaves.
- This loaf is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
In conclusion, our Glazed Cream Cheese Orange Loaf is a delectable treat that will transport your taste buds to a world of citrus bliss. With its harmonious blend of tangy oranges and creamy cream cheese, this loaf is a celebration of flavors and textures that will leave you craving for more. Whether you indulge in a slice for breakfast, enjoy it as an afternoon snack, or savor it as a dessert, this recipe is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart.
So, why wait? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on a baking adventure that will fill your home with tantalizing aromas and create lasting memories. Whether you’re baking for your family, sharing it with friends, or treating yourself to a moment of indulgence, our Glazed Cream Cheese Orange Loaf is a recipe that will never disappoint.
Remember, the magic of this recipe lies not only in the delightful flavors but also in the joy it brings to your loved ones. So, let the buttery aroma fill your kitchen, and relish the moments of togetherness as you slice into this heavenly creation. Go ahead and experience the tangy, creamy, and utterly satisfying delight that is our Glazed Cream Cheese Orange Loaf. Happy baking!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of citrus fruit instead of oranges?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with other citrus fruits like lemons or limes. Feel free to experiment and discover your favorite variation.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
While unsalted butter is recommended for this recipe to have better control over the saltiness, you can use salted butter if it’s all you have. Just be mindful of the additional salt in the recipe and adjust accordingly.
Can I make this loaf ahead of time?
Yes! This loaf can be made a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container at room temperature and glaze it right before serving.
Glazed Cream Cheese Orange Loaf
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour 240g
- 1 cup sugar 200g
- 1 cup 2 sticks unsalted butter, room temperature (226g)
- 1/4 cup orange juice 60ml
- 1 8 oz. package cream cheese, room temperature (226g)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon orange extract optional
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Glaze:
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar 180g
- 3-5 tablespoons orange juice 45-75ml
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) and generously grease a 9x5-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. You can also use two loaf dishes if desired.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, orange zest, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl or mixer, cream together the butter, cream cheese, and sugar for 3-4 minutes, or until smooth. Mix in the eggs, orange juice, vanilla extract, and optional orange extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Transfer the batter to the greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the loaf is baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest. Adjust the consistency by adding more or less orange juice to achieve your desired thickness.
- Once the loaf is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 15 minutes. Run a knife around the edge of the pan to loosen the loaf.
- Invert the loaf onto a serving platter and pour the glaze over the top. Allow the glaze to harden, then serve the loaf at room temperature.
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