Orange Loaf with Dried Apricots and Pecans

My morning was full of baking and cooking...not sure what came over me but my family is very happy about it. For this recipe I referred to the tried and true, good old Joy of Cooking. If you do not own this cookbook yet I highly recommend it, it is a staple in my kitchen. This recipe was a hit with my family.

Orange Loaf with Dried Apricots and Pecans
from Joy of Cooking

Have all ingredients at room temperature
Position rack in lower third of oven
Preheat to 350 degrees

Whisk together thoroughly:
1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt

Combine in another bowl:
1/4 cup milk
1/4 cup orange juice
Grated zest of 1 small lemon
Grated zest of 1 orange

In a large bowl beat on high speed until lightened in color and texture, 2 to 3 minutes:
6 Tbsp unsalted butter
2/3 cup sugar

Gradually beat in:
2 large eggs, lightly beaten

Add the flour mixture in 3 parts, alternating with the milk mixture in 2 parts, beating on low speed or stirring with rubber spatula just until incorporated and scraping the sides of the bowl as necessary.

Fold in:
2/3 cup coarsely chopped pecans
1/3 cup finely chopped dried apricots

Scrape the batter into the pan and spread evenly. Bake until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, 45 to 50 minutes. Let cool in pan on a rack for 5 to 10 minutes before unmolding to cool completely on the rack.

Delicious!!