I made two batches of this recipe for a party, and everybody still devoured it all

As the warm glow of the morning sun gently streams through the kitchen window, there's something truly magical about the aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through the air. It's a scent that brings back memories of cherished times spent with loved ones and the simple joys of life. One such baked good that holds a special place in my heart is the delightful Orange Cream Cheese Loaf. Not only does this loaf boast a tantalizing combination of citrusy orange and creamy, tangy cheese flavors, but it's also incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros alike.

The story of how I came to love this recipe is one that I'll never forget. It was a dreary, rainy day and I was feeling a bit under the weather. My dear grandmother, noticing my dampened spirits, decided to surprise me with a batch of her famous Orange Cream Cheese Loaf. With each bite, I could taste the love and care she had poured into the recipe, and it was as if the clouds had parted and the sun was shining down on me once more. I couldn't help but feel grateful for the warmth and comfort that this simple loaf had brought to my day. To this day, whenever I bake this loaf, I'm reminded of the love that my grandmother showed me, and I'm eager to share that same love with others through this delightful recipe.

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
2 tsp orange zest
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, cream cheese, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Once the loaf has cooled, dust it with powdered sugar (optional) and serve.