Chocolate Orange Oat Snack Loaf

Name: Chocolate Orange Oat Snack Loaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 3/4 cup brown sugar; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Zest of 1 orange; 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Sweet Ideas

I love making this Chocolate Orange Oat Snack Loaf because it combines two of my favorite flavors: rich chocolate and bright citrus notes. The textured oats give it a hearty bite, while the orange zest adds a refreshing twist that lifts the dark chocolate. Every time I bake this loaf, my home fills with an irresistible aroma that brings everyone to the kitchen. It’s perfect for an afternoon snack or a delightful breakfast treat, and it’s super easy to whip up with just a few ingredients!

Created by

Marigold Pearson

Last updated on 2026-01-21T19:22:34.985Z

I was looking for a healthy yet indulgent snack when I stumbled upon the idea of combining oats with chocolate and orange. It turned out to be a match made in heaven! The oats not only add nutrition but also help bind the loaf together, making it moist and satisfying. The key, I found, is to let the loaf cool completely before slicing; this way, it holds its shape perfectly.

Experimenting with the sweetness, I discovered that pairing semi-sweet chocolate with just the right amount of orange zest both amplifies the chocolate flavor and adds a refreshing zing. This delightful combo is a hit with my friends and family, and it's simple enough to make any time I want a sweet 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

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of rolled oats and all-purpose flour provides a wholesome base for this loaf, contributing to its hearty texture. The oats not only add fiber but also give a pleasant chewiness, enhancing the overall mouthfeel of your snack loaf. Using rolled oats instead of quick oats ensures that you retain that desirable texture, allowing each slice to hold together without becoming overly dense.

Unsweetened cocoa powder is crucial for delivering the rich chocolate flavor without unnecessary sweetness. It’s important to use high-quality cocoa—if you can, opt for Dutch-processed for a deeper taste. Keep in mind that cocoa powder can sometimes clump; sifting it before measuring can help to prevent any lumps in the batter, ensuring a smooth, rich loaf.

Baking Technique Tips

When you combine the wet and dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix. Stirring just until the flour is incorporated prevents gluten development, which can lead to a tough loaf. You want a moist, tender texture, so a few lumps in the batter are perfectly acceptable. Folding in the chocolate chips last will help to distribute them evenly throughout the loaf, ensuring that every slice is packed with chocolatey goodness.

As the loaf bakes, keep an eye on it during the last 10 minutes. Depending on your oven, you may need to rotate the loaf pan for even baking, especially if your oven has hot spots. The loaf should rise nicely, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it, indicating it’s done but not overbaked.

Ingredients

For the Loaf

1 cup rolled oats
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
3/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Zest of 1 orange
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, cocoa powder, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well to ensure all dry ingredients are evenly distributed.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir in the orange zest for an extra zing.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips gently.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Slice

Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an added twist, try substituting the semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark or white chocolate chips. You can also add chopped nuts for extra crunch!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Chocolate Orange Oat Snack Loaf stores beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep. Once completely cooled, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider slicing the loaf and placing the individual pieces in an airtight container in the freezer, where they can last for up to three months. Simply thaw at room temperature or pop in the microwave for a quick warm-up.

If you plan to make the loaf ahead of time for a special occasion, consider baking it a day in advance. The flavors of the orange and chocolate will deepen overnight, enhancing the overall taste. Just ensure it’s wrapped well to prevent it from drying out.

Serving Suggestions

This loaf is delicious on its own, but it can also be elevated with a few simple serving ideas. Try toasting slices and spreading a little butter or cream cheese for a decadent breakfast treat. A drizzle of melted dark chocolate over the top can take it to a whole new level of indulgence, especially for gatherings or celebrations.

For a lovely afternoon snack, pair slices with freshly brewed coffee or tea. You can also serve it with a side of fresh fruit, such as berries or citrus segments, to balance the richness of the chocolate and add a refreshing element to your meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend if preferred.

→ How can I store the loaf?

Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

→ Can I use other types of milk?

Absolutely! Almond milk, oat milk, or any dairy-free alternative works great in this recipe.

→ Is this loaf suitable for vegans?

You can make it vegan by substituting the eggs with a flaxseed meal mixture and using plant-based milk.