A moist and zesty loaf with a sweet, crunchy orange syrup topping.
Crunchy Orange Syrup Loaves bring a burst of citrus flavor combined with a satisfyingly crisp topping. The fresh orange zest inside the batter pairs beautifully with a sticky syrup glaze made from real orange juice and sanding sugar. This recipe is simple to follow and delivers a loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, or dessert.
Ingredients
- 1⅓ cups (175g) all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 extra-large eggs
- 4 tbsp milk
- ¾ cup + 2 tbsp (175g) granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ cup (115g) salted butter, softened
- Finely grated zest of 1 orange
For the topping:
- Juice of 1 orange
- 1⅔ cups (115g) sanding sugar
Instructions
- Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your loaf pan by greasing it and placing parchment paper inside.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until mixed evenly.
- In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until the mixture becomes fluffy and pale.
- Beat in the eggs one by one, making sure each is fully combined before adding the next. Stir in the orange zest.
- Slowly add the flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture, alternating between them. Begin and finish with the flour. Mix gently until just blended.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it out smoothly.
- Bake for about 50 to 60 minutes. Test by inserting a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, it’s done.
- As soon as the loaf is out of the oven, poke small holes on top and pour over the orange juice mixed with sanding sugar. Let it cool fully before slicing to enjoy the crunchy topping.

Crunchy Orange Syrup Loaves
Ingredients
Method
- Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your loaf pan by greasing it and placing parchment paper inside.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until mixed evenly.
- In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until the mixture becomes fluffy and pale.
- Beat in the eggs one by one, making sure each is fully combined before adding the next. Stir in the orange zest.
- Slowly add the flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture, alternating between them. Begin and finish with the flour. Mix gently until just blended.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it out smoothly.
- Bake for about 50 to 60 minutes. Test by inserting a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, it’s done.
- As soon as the loaf is out of the oven, poke small holes on top and pour over the orange juice mixed with sanding sugar. Let it cool fully before slicing to enjoy the crunchy topping.
Notes
Pro Tip
For the best crunchy topping, make sure to pour the orange syrup over the loaf while it’s still warm. This helps the syrup soak in properly and creates that perfect crunchy crust. Also, use freshly squeezed orange juice for a bright, natural flavor—avoid bottled juice if you can! If you want an extra zing, add a little extra orange zest to the batter or sprinkle some zest on top before baking.Pro Tip
For the best crunchy topping, make sure to pour the orange syrup over the loaf while it’s still warm. This helps the syrup soak in properly and creates that perfect crunchy crust. Also, use freshly squeezed orange juice for a bright, natural flavor—avoid bottled juice if you can! If you want an extra zing, add a little extra orange zest to the batter or sprinkle some zest on top before baking.
Nutritional Value (per serving, based on 8 servings)
- Calories: 260
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 23g
Conclusion
Crunchy Orange Syrup Loaves bring together a lovely balance of citrus freshness and sweet crunch. The syrup topping adds a wonderful texture that makes this loaf stand out. It’s simple to make and sure to impress friends and family. Give it a try, and you’ll enjoy a bright, sweet loaf perfect for teatime or dessert!

