Gluten-Free Orange Cardamom Bread: Cozy Winter Loaf

Gluten-Free Orange Cardamom Bread: A Zesty, Aromatic Loaf for Cozy Winter Mornings
There’s a unique kind of magic that unfolds in the kitchen on those crisp winter mornings, especially when the air carries that undeniable chill, and you’re greeted by the warmth of freshly baked goods. This Gluten-Free Orange Cardamom Bread is specifically designed for those moments, bringing together the bright, zesty perfume of orange with the subtly exotic and deeply comforting notes of cardamom. It’s more than just a quick bread; it’s an invitation to cozy up and savor a slice of pure joy.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!For years, I found myself on a quest for the perfect gluten-free loaf—one that wouldn’t disappoint with a dry, crumbly texture or an overly dense bite. It was a journey filled with many attempts and a few delicious failures, similar to my dedication in perfecting my Honey Whole Wheat Bread Sandwich Loaf for everyday meals. But after much dedicated experimenting, I finally cracked the code to a gluten-free quick bread that is wonderfully moist, tender, and incredibly fragrant, proving that gluten-free baking can truly be a celebration of flavor and texture.
This Gluten-Free Orange Cardamom Bread isn’t just another recipe; it’s a revelation for anyone seeking that elusive “hug in a slice.” Get ready to fill your home with an aroma that promises warmth and comfort, guaranteed to make everyone ask, “What’s baking?” You can find all the delicious details and the full recipe that will transform your kitchen into a haven of aromatic delight right here.
Gluten-Free Orange Cardamom Bread: Cozy Winter Loaf
Course: BreadsCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcalA warmly spiced, zesty gluten-free loaf, perfect for a cozy breakfast or an afternoon treat, filled with the bright flavor of orange and aromatic cardamom.
Ingredients
1 3/4 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (ensure it contains xanthan gum)
1/2 cup almond flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
2 large eggs, at room temperature
1/2 cup buttermilk (or 1/2 cup milk + 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar, let sit 5 mins)
1/4 cup fresh orange juice
2 tablespoons orange zest (from 1-2 large oranges)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Orange Glaze (optional):
1 cup powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan (using gluten-free flour) or line with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, almond flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cardamom, cinnamon (if using), and salt until well combined.
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add the eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, whisking well after each addition until fully incorporated.
- Stir in the buttermilk, orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing with a spatula or spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few small lumps are fine.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan and spread to smooth the top.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, tent it lightly with foil.
- Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before carefully transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once the bread is completely cool, prepare the glaze (if using): In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and orange juice until smooth and pourable. Drizzle over the cooled loaf.
Notes
- A Family Secret: For an extra layer of cardamom flavor that truly pops, lightly toast the whole cardamom pods in a dry pan for a minute before grinding them. This awakens their essential oils and makes a huge difference in the final aroma and taste of your Gluten-Free Orange Cardamom Bread!
- Pro Tip: Gluten-free flours can be tricky! Make sure to use a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose blend that already contains xanthan gum. If your blend doesn’t, add 1/2 teaspoon of xanthan gum to the dry ingredients to help with structure and prevent a crumbly loaf.
- Flavor Twist: Don’t be shy with the orange zest! Zest from two large oranges provides that vibrant citrus punch that beautifully complements the cardamom. You can also add a tablespoon of finely chopped candied ginger to the batter for a delightful spicy kick.
