Sweet Florida Orange Breakfast Bread

Prepare the Oven and Pans:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease and lightly flour your loaf pans.

Mix the Dry Ingredients:

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Prepare the Wet Ingredients:

• In a measuring cup, combine the buttermilk, orange juice, and vanilla extract. Set aside.

Make the Batter:

• In a large bowl, use a mixer to beat the butter until creamy.
• Add the sugar and beat for a few minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
• Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
• Stir in the orange zest and mix until fully incorporated.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:

• With the mixer on low speed, slowly add 1/3 of the flour mixture.
• Mix in half of the buttermilk mixture.
• Add another 1/3 of the flour mixture, followed by the remaining buttermilk mixture.
• Add the final third of the flour mixture and mix until just combined.

Bake the Bread:

• Divide the batter evenly between the prepared loaf pans, filling each about 3/4 full.
• Bake for 30 to 35 minutes (45 minutes for larger loaf pans) or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Prepare the Orange Simple Syrup:

• While the bread bakes, make the orange simple syrup.
• In a small pot, stir together 1/2 cup orange juice and 1/2 cup brown sugar.
• Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally, then reduce the heat and simmer for a few minutes.
• Remove from heat and let cool.

Glaze the Bread:

• Once the bread is done baking, allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before turning out onto a wire rack.
• Place the rack over a sheet pan or piece of foil.
• Using a brush or spoon, soak the warm bread with the cooled orange simple syrup.
• Let the bread cool completely.

Store the Bread:

• Once cooled, store the bread in an airtight container or wrap tightly for freshness. Enjoy your delicious, citrusy breakfast treat!