There’s something about the combo of citrus and chocolate that just hits differently. I remember tossing this into the bread machine on a whim—and by the time that sweet, zesty aroma filled the kitchen, I was hooked.
The orange adds a pop of brightness, while the chocolate chips melt into gooey pockets of goodness.
If you’re craving bakery-style bread with minimal effort, this one’s a must.
Why This Bread Machine Recipe Wins Big
This isn’t just any sweet loaf. It’s a sensory experience—the kind of bread that smells like dessert and feels like a treat but still works for breakfast, brunch, or an indulgent afternoon snack. Here’s why orange chocolate chip bread deserves a spot in your rotation:
- One-bowl prep: The bread machine does all the heavy lifting.
- Citrus twist: Orange juice and zest add a bright, tangy lift.
- Chocolate love: Semisweet chips melt into the bread for gooey surprises in every bite.
- Versatile for any season: Citrus keeps it fresh for summer, but the cinnamon and richness make it feel cozy in colder months.
Plus, it’s pretty enough for entertaining and easy enough for weekday cravings.
Best Tips for the Perfect Sweet Program Loaf
Bread machine baking can be hit-or-miss without the right setting. This recipe shines best on the “Sweet” program—yep, that setting you probably skip over most of the time. Here’s how to get bakery-level results at home:
- Choose the right loaf size: Pick 1½- or 2-pound based on your machine and crowd size.
- Use room temp ingredients: Helps everything mix evenly and rise properly.
- Don’t skip the orange zest: It gives that citrus aroma you can’t fake.
- Let it cool fully: This helps set the structure, especially with melty chips involved.
If your machine doesn’t have a sweet setting, go for the lightest crust option or check your manual for a custom program.
Flavor Twists You’ll Want to Try
Even though the original is a knockout, this recipe loves a little customization. Think of it as your base canvas for fruity, nutty, or spiced-up adventures.
- Nuts for texture: Add chopped walnuts or pecans with the chocolate chips.
- Zesty swaps: Try lemon or lime zest for a tangy twist.
- Spice it up: A pinch of cardamom or nutmeg adds a cozy layer.
- Vegan version: Use a plant-based milk, a flax egg, and vegan butter.
- Dairy-free: Swap out the butter and milk for oat or almond alternatives.
It’s flexible, fun, and still turns out soft and golden every time.
Perfect for Entertaining, Gifting, or Meal Prep
This loaf isn’t just good straight out of the machine. It shines even more after a day or two—and it freezes beautifully, too.
Here’s how I love using it:
- Brunch boards: Slice it up and serve with cream cheese, marmalade, or a drizzle of honey.
- Holiday treats: Wrap in parchment and twine for a thoughtful, homemade gift.
- Freezer-friendly: Slice and freeze individually for grab-and-go breakfast or snacks.
- Meal prep: Make a loaf on Sunday and enjoy slices toasted all week long.
It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel like you’ve got it all together—even when you don’t.
How to Serve This Citrus-Chocolate Dream
Whether you’re indulging solo or feeding a crowd, this bread holds its own. Want to level up the experience?
- Toasted with butter: Especially good with salted or honey butter.
- French toast upgrade: Thick slices dipped in egg and pan-fried = heaven.
- Midnight snack: A slice microwaved for 15 seconds? Total melt-in-your-mouth magic.
- Dipped in chocolate fondue: Trust me, it’s a move.
No matter how you slice it, orange chocolate chip bread brings a little sunshine and a lot of flavor to your table. And hey—your bread machine just found its new signature loaf.
Orange Chocolate Chip Bread Machine Recipe
Equipment
- Bread machine with sweet program
- 1½- to 2-pound loaf capacity pan
Ingredients
1½-Pound Loaf
- ½ cup orange juice
- ⅓ cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp orange zest (optional)
- 3 tbsp butter softened and cut into pieces
- 3 cups bread flour
- ¼ cup sugar
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- 1¼ tsp kosher salt
- 2 tsp yeast
Mix-ins:
- ⅓ cup semisweet chocolate chips
2-Pound Loaf
- ⅔ cup orange juice
- ½ cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp orange zest (optional)
- 4 tbsp butter softened and cut into pieces
- 4 cups bread flour
- ⅓ cup sugar
- 1 tbsp cinnamon
- 1½ tsp kosher salt
- 2¼ tsp yeast
Mix-ins:
- ½ cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Add ingredients to the bread machine’s baking pan in the order listed: liquids first, then dry ingredients, finishing with the yeast.
- Reserve chocolate chips and add them during the mix-in cycle or during the second knead if your machine doesn’t signal.
- Select the Sweet setting on your bread machine. If unavailable, use the Basic setting with the lightest crust option.
- Choose the appropriate loaf size (1½ or 2-pound) and press Start.
- When baking completes, remove the loaf from the pan and cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Orange zest adds a punch of flavor but can be omitted if not on hand.
- If your machine lacks a mix-in alert, add chocolate chips manually during the second knead.
- For a crispy finish, toast slices under the broiler or serve with whipped butter and chocolate cream cheese spread.
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.