Chocolate Orange Coconut Snack Loaf

Name: Chocolate Orange Coconut Snack Loaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup buttermilk; Zest of 1 orange; 1/2 cup shredded coconut; 1 cup chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Daily Meals

I absolutely love this Chocolate Orange Coconut Snack Loaf! The union of rich chocolate, zesty orange, and the delightful taste of coconut creates a snack that’s not only scrumptious but also invigorating! I’ve often made this loaf for special occasions, and it never fails to impress. The warm, inviting aroma fills my kitchen, welcoming friends and family. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, meaning I get to enjoy it in no time. Whether with morning coffee or as a tasty dessert, this loaf is always a hit!

Created by

Belinda Fraser

Last updated on 2026-01-21T18:17:34.467Z

When I first baked this Chocolate Orange Coconut Snack Loaf, I was captivated by the idea of merging these bold flavors. The combination not only complements each other but creates a beautifully moist loaf that slices like a dream. I’ve experimented with different ratios of chocolate and orange, and I’ve discovered that a touch more citrus truly elevates the flavor experience.

One key to achieving that inviting texture is allowing the loaf to cool completely before slicing. This way, you’re rewarded with clean edges and a delightful chocolatey bite surrounded by a hint of coconut and citrus. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Why You'll 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

The Magic of Flavor Combinations

The pairing of chocolate and orange in this loaf is a culinary delight. The rich, deep notes of cocoa perfectly complement the bright, zesty flavor of the orange, creating a tantalizing contrast that's hard to resist. As the loaf bakes, the warm aroma fills your kitchen, elevating the anticipation of tasting this delicious treat. The addition of coconut introduces a tropical twist that enhances both the flavor profile and texture, making each slice a delightful experience.

When adding the orange zest, make sure to use fresh zest from an organic orange if possible. This not only provides a stronger flavor but also contributes aromatic oils from the fruit’s skin, enhancing the loaf’s overall character. Be cautious not to include the bitter white pith while zesting, as it can turn the cake's flavor unpleasant.

Tips for Perfecting Your Snack Loaf

One key to achieving a moist and tender loaf is ensuring not to overmix the batter. Once the dry ingredients are added to the wet mixture, stir gently until just combined—this preserves the delicate structure and keeps the crumb soft. Folding in the coconut and chocolate chips at the end allows for an even distribution without overworking the batter, which can lead to a denser texture.

If you're looking to customize the loaf, consider substituting part of the sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Just remember, if you do so, you might need to adjust the wet ingredients slightly to account for the added moisture. This gives you room to experiment while still enjoying that fantastic flavor combination!

Ingredients

For the Loaf

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
2 large eggs
1/2 cup buttermilk
Zest of 1 orange
1/2 cup shredded coconut
1 cup chocolate chips

Instructions

Instructions

Directions

Prepare the Oven and Loaf Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a standard loaf pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the sugar and melted coconut oil until well combined. Add the eggs, buttermilk, and orange zest, and beat until smooth.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Gently fold in the coconut and chocolate chips.

Bake the Loaf

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for about 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy Your Snack Loaf!

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavor even more, consider adding a splash of orange juice to the batter before mixing. It gives the loaf an extra citrusy boost that works wonders!

Serving Suggestions

This Chocolate Orange Coconut Snack Loaf is incredibly versatile. I love serving it at breakfast alongside a steaming cup of coffee or tea. Alternatively, you can slice it up and serve it as a dessert topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. The loaf also pairs beautifully with a tart citrus salad, balancing the richness of the cake with refreshing flavors.

For a little extra flair, consider drizzling a simple glaze made of orange juice and powdered sugar over the top once the loaf has cooled. This adds a beautiful, glossy finish and enhances the orange flavor even further, making it visually appealing for guests.

Storage Tips

To keep your loaf fresh for longer, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay moist for about three days. For longer storage, consider wrapping the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can last for up to three months this way, allowing you to enjoy the flavors of chocolate and orange whenever a craving strikes.

When you’re ready to enjoy a slice from the freezer, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a couple of hours. If you wish to have it warm, you can pop individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, but the texture may be denser.

→ How should I store the loaf?

Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze the loaf?

Absolutely! Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months.

→ What can I substitute for coconut oil?

You can substitute coconut oil with unsalted butter or vegetable oil if desired.