A deliciously moist Orange Zucchini Bread with Orange Glaze is perfect for a brunch, dessert table, or simply to enjoy with your afternoon tea. This bread combines the sweetness of fresh oranges with the subtle earthiness of zucchini, resulting in a delightful treat that everyone will love. The orange glaze adds an extra burst of flavor, making this recipe a standout choice for various occasions.
Why Youβll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly Moist: The combination of eggs and grated zucchini keeps the bread tender and moist.
- Bursting with Flavor: Fresh orange juice and zest infuse every bite with a vibrant citrus taste.
- Versatile Treat: Great for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, this bread fits any time of day.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it accessible for all skill levels.
- Perfect for Sharing: Bake a loaf to share at gatherings; itβs sure to impress friends and family.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9Γ5 inch loaf pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Grater
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- 9Γ5 inch loaf pan: This size ensures even baking and allows the bread to rise properly.
- Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls helps keep your ingredients organized during prep.
- Grater: Essential for getting perfectly grated zucchini that blends seamlessly into the batter.
Ingredients
For this delightful Orange Zucchini Bread with Orange Glaze, you will need:
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 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 350Β°F (175Β°C). This ensures that your bread bakes evenly from the start.
Step 2: Prepare Your Loaf Pan
Grease your 9Γ5 inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray. This will help prevent sticking once your bread is done baking.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl:
1. Beat together the eggs and sugar until light.
2. Add in vegetable oil, vanilla extract, orange zest, and orange juice. Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl:
1. Whisk together the flour, salt, cardamom (if using), and baking soda.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients while stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
Step 6: Add Zucchini
Fold in the grated zucchini gently until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 7: Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Bake in preheated oven for about 70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Make the Orange Glaze
While the bread is cooling:
1. In a bowl, mix together melted butter, orange zest, vanilla extract, and orange juice.
2. Gradually whisk in powdered sugar until smooth.
Step 9: Glaze Your Bread
Once your bread has cooled completely, drizzle the orange glaze over it before slicing.
Enjoy this delightful treat!
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 an afternoon snack, this moist bread pairs beautifully with many accompaniments.
Breakfast Delight
- With a Side of Yogurt β Serve slices with a dollop of yogurt for a creamy contrast to the sweetness.
- Accompanied by Fresh Fruit β Pair with fresh berries or citrus slices for a refreshing start to your day.
Afternoon Snack
- With Tea or Coffee β Enjoy a slice alongside your favorite tea or coffee for an afternoon pick-me-up.
- Spread with Cream Cheese β Add a layer of cream cheese for extra richness and flavor.
Dessert Option
- Topped with Whipped Cream β Elevate your dessert experience by adding whipped cream on top.
- Served Warm β Heat the slices slightly before serving for a warm, gooey treat.
How to Perfect Orange Zucchini Bread with Orange Glaze
Perfecting your Orange Zucchini Bread with Orange Glaze requires attention to detail. Here are some helpful tips to ensure delicious results every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients β Always opt for fresh eggs and orange juice to enhance flavor depth.
- Grate Zucchini Properly β Ensure the zucchini is finely grated; this helps it blend smoothly into the batter.
- Donβt Overmix Batter β Mix until just combined to avoid dense bread; overmixing can lead to tough texture.
- Check Doneness with Toothpick β Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the bread is done baking.
- Cool Before Glazing β Allow the bread to cool completely before adding the orange glaze for better adherence and presentation.
Best Side Dishes for Orange Zucchini Bread with Orange Glaze
Pairing side dishes with your Orange Zucchini Bread can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Fruit Salad β A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances sweetness.
- Cheese Platter β Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese which complement the sweet notes of the bread.
- Mixed Greens Salad β A light salad dressed in vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the bread.
- Nut Butter Spread β Almond or cashew butter provides protein and healthy fats, making it even more satisfying.
- Granola Parfait β Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a textural contrast that pairs well with the soft bread.
- Herbed Cream Cheese Dip β A savory dip can balance the sweetness of the zucchini bread nicely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Orange Zucchini Bread with Orange Glaze, itβs easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.
- Using too much flour: Too much flour can lead to a dense loaf. Measure your flour accurately and consider using the spoon-and-level method.
- Not squeezing out excess moisture from zucchini: Grated zucchini holds water, which can affect the breadβs texture. Make sure to gently squeeze out any extra moisture before adding it to your batter.
- Skipping the orange zest: The zest adds essential flavor. Always include it for a more vibrant taste in your bread.
- Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can create tough bread. Mix just until combined for a tender loaf.
- Ignoring cooling time: Letting the bread cool completely before glazing allows the flavors to set. Skipping this step may result in a soggy glaze.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Keep it wrapped in plastic wrap for added freshness.
Freezing Orange Zucchini Bread with Orange Glaze
- Wrap tightly in aluminum foil or freezer-safe bags.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months, ensuring optimal freshness.
Reheating Orange Zucchini Bread with Orange Glaze
- Oven: Preheat to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices for 15-20 seconds on high until warm.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, warming each side for about 2-3 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making Orange Zucchini Bread with Orange Glaze.
Can I use other types of citrus instead of orange?
You can definitely experiment with lemons or limes for a different flavor profile that still complements zucchini well.
How do I know when my bread is done baking?
A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached but no wet batter.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to this recipe?
Yes! Chopped nuts like walnuts or chocolate chips can be added for extra texture and flavor.
What can I substitute if I donβt have cardamom?
If you donβt have cardamom, cinnamon is a great alternative that will still provide warmth and spice.
Final Thoughts
Orange Zucchini Bread with Orange Glaze is not only delicious but also versatile. This recipe is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or even an afternoon snack. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or experimenting with different spices. Try this delightful recipe today!

Orange Zucchini Bread with Orange Glaze
- Author: Adeline
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful experience of Orange Zucchini Bread with Orange Glazeβan incredibly moist and flavorful treat thatβs perfect for any occasion. The sweet essence of fresh oranges blends beautifully with the subtle earthiness of zucchini, creating a harmonious balance that will tantalize your taste buds. Topped with a vibrant orange glaze, this quick bread can be enjoyed as a breakfast item, an afternoon snack, or even a dessert at gatherings. With straightforward instructions and easily accessible ingredients, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels. Impress your family and friends with this irresistible loaf thatβs sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- Zest and juice of 1 large orange
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups grated zucchini
- For the glaze: zest and juice of 1 large orange, 3 tablespoons melted butter, 3 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and grease a 9Γ5 inch loaf pan.
- In a mixing bowl, beat together eggs and sugar until light. Add vegetable oil, vanilla extract, orange zest, and juice; mix well.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, salt, cardamom (optional), and baking soda.
- Gradually combine dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined. Fold in grated zucchini gently.
- Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for about 70 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- For the glaze, mix melted butter, orange zest, vanilla extract, and orange juice in a bowl; gradually whisk in powdered sugar until smooth.
- Once cooled completely, drizzle the glaze over the bread before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Ensure you use fresh oranges for maximum flavor. Grate zucchini finely to incorporate it well into the batter without clumps. Feel free to customize by adding nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture.









