As the winter chill settles in and holiday lights twinkle in the evening, there’s nothing quite like the inviting scent of freshly baked bread wafting through the house. Picture this: soft, warm slices of festive chocolate peppermint bread, each bite bursting with indulgent chocolate and a refreshing hint of peppermint. This delightful treat not only elevates your breakfast game but also makes for an irresistible dessert. Perfectly tender and topped with a creamy glaze, it’s the kind of recipe that prompts you to gather loved ones around the table, sharing stories and laughter over hot coffee and sweet slices. Whether you’re looking to impress at a holiday brunch or simply want to cozy up with something special, this chocolate peppermint bread is a festive necessity that will warm your heart and home. Let’s dive into this deliciously simple recipe that promises to be a seasonal favorite!
Why will you love festive chocolate peppermint bread?
Indulging in this festive chocolate peppermint bread is an experience you won’t forget!
Bursting with holiday flavors, each slice features decadent chocolate paired with refreshing peppermint.
Quick and easy, this recipe comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings.
Versatile delight—enjoy it for breakfast, dessert, or as a charming gift for friends!
Impressive presentation with its creamy glaze and candy cane topping makes it a showstopper on any winter table.
Share it with loved ones and create memories over warm slices of bliss that will have everyone asking for more!
Festive Chocolate Peppermint Bread Ingredients
• To make this delightful festive chocolate peppermint bread, gather the following ingredients for a memorable treat!
For the Bread
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – A key player for rich chocolate flavor; choose natural for acidity or Dutch-process for smoothness.
- Espresso Powder – Enhances chocolate depth without coffee flavor; it’s a must-have for true chocolate lovers.
- All-Purpose Flour – The structure of your bread; measure carefully for the best results.
- Baking Powder/Baking Soda – Essential leavening agents; both are needed to achieve that perfect rise.
- Butter – Adds moisture and richness; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Brown Sugar/White Sugar – Both sweeten and add moisture; opt for brown sugar for added depth with its molasses notes.
- Eggs – Provides moisture and structure; bring them to room temperature for better incorporation.
- Milk – Keeps the bread moist and rich; measure accurately for a moist outcome.
- Dark Chocolate Chips – Expect luscious pockets of chocolate; chop finely for even distribution.
- Peppermint Extract – A dash gives that delightful festive aroma; be precise for the perfect minty touch.
For the Frosting
- Powdered Sugar – Forms the base of your creamy frosting; sifting it ensures a smooth finish.
- Greek Yogurt – Adds a creamy texture without heaviness; a splendid, optional health boost.
- Crushed Candy Canes – Fun, crunchy garnish; sprinkle while the frosting is still soft for the best adhesion.
How to Make Festive Chocolate Peppermint Bread
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Preheat and Prepare: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms, grab your loaf pan and grease it or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy release later.
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Take out your butter and eggs to bring them to room temperature. This step is crucial for proper mixing and texture, so don’t rush it!
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Sift the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together your flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, espresso powder, and salt. This process removes lumps and ensures even distribution—key for a light, fluffy bread!
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Beat the Butter and Sugars: In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and white sugar together for about 3-4 minutes, or until the mixture is light and fluffy. Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl halfway through for even mixing.
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Add the Eggs and Extract: Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finish by incorporating the peppermint extract, letting that festive aroma fill your kitchen!
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Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually alternate adding your sifted dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture. Start and end with the dry ingredients, folding in the dark chocolate chips gently until fully incorporated.
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Fill the Loaf Pan: Pour your luscious batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula, ensuring it is evenly distributed for a beautiful rise.
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Bake to Perfection: Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs—perfectly done!
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Cooling Time: Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before carefully transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Make the Frosting: While your bread cools, prepare the frosting by beating together the powdered sugar, Greek yogurt, milk, and peppermint extract until smooth and creamy.
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Frost and Garnish: Once the bread is fully cooled, spread the peppermint frosting generously on top. Sprinkle crushed candy canes over the frosting for a delightful crunch and festive flair. Let it set for 15-20 minutes before slicing.
Optional: Serve slices warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These festive chocolate peppermint bread loaves are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix all the ingredients as instructed, then cover and refrigerate the bowl. When you’re ready to bake, let the batter sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before pouring it into the loaf pan and proceeding with baking. Additionally, you can also make the frosting a day ahead; just keep it stored in an airtight container in the fridge. This way, when it’s time to serve, you can frost the cooled bread with minimal effort, ensuring it’s just as delicious and festive!
Expert Tips for Festive Chocolate Peppermint Bread
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Always use room temperature butter and eggs; this ensures proper mixing and creates a tender, moist bread.
- Avoid Overmixing: Be gentle when combining the wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, which we want to avoid for our festive chocolate peppermint bread.
- Precise Measurements: Accurately measuring your ingredients is crucial. Too much flour can dry out the bread, while precise measurements lead to perfect tenderness.
- Cool Completely: Let the bread cool completely before frosting. If it’s still warm, the frosting may slide off, ruining that beautiful presentation!
- Texture Check: Check for doneness around 50 minutes. A few moist crumbs on the toothpick are a sign of perfect tenderness—this is especially delightful in our festive chocolate peppermint bread!
- Optional Enhancements: Don’t hesitate to add walnuts or pecans for extra crunch! You can also swap dark chocolate chips for white chocolate for a sweeter twist.
Storage Tips for Festive Chocolate Peppermint Bread
Room Temperature: Store the bread at room temperature for up to 4 days in an airtight container to maintain its moistness and flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer refrigerating, keep it tightly wrapped or in an airtight container for up to a week. Just know it may lose some of its tenderness.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the bread for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil; add the glaze after thawing for best results.
Reheating: To enjoy your festive chocolate peppermint bread warm, slice and briefly toast in a toaster or oven. Alternatively, use the microwave for 15-20 seconds on low power.
What to Serve with Festive Chocolate Peppermint Bread?
The perfect accompaniments will elevate your cozy winter gatherings from satisfying to truly memorable.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a delightful, airy texture that complements the rich chocolate and peppermint beautifully.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: This creamy, sweet treat creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience, balancing the festive flavors perfectly.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright and tangy fruit like strawberries or citrus brings a refreshing contrast, cutting through the sweetness of the bread.
- Hot Cocoa: Warm a mug of creamy hot cocoa topped with marshmallows for an extra dose of nostalgia and warmth on chilly days.
- Coffee: A warm cup of coffee enhances the deep chocolate flavors while providing a comforting start to your day.
- Festive Cheese Platter: Mix rich cheeses with some tangy accents, like a cranberry goat cheese. It’s a savory partner to the sweetness of the bread.
- Peppermint Tea: A warm peppermint tea offers a soothing break alongside your treat, inviting a moment of calm during busy holidays.
- Chocolate Ganache: Drizzle warm chocolate ganache over the slices for a decadent touch; it amps up the chocolate experience without overpowering.
- Spiced Mulled Wine: The warmth and spices in mulled wine create a cozy atmosphere that pairs excellently with the peppermint bread.
Variations & Substitutions for festive chocolate peppermint bread
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own—delicious twists await!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with coconut oil and milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful texture contrast and an earthy flavor boost.
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free alternative that still delights.
- Minty Freshness: Amp up the peppermint by adding a few drops of peppermint oil to the batter for a more intense flavor.
- Chocolate Varieties: Swap dark chocolate chips for white or milk chocolate chips for a sweeter, creamier experience.
- Candy Cane Swirl: Reserve some of the batter, swirl in extra crushed candy canes before baking for a festive surprise.
- Spiced Up: Incorporate a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter for a warm, spicy twist that enhances the winter vibe.
- Zesty Lemon: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the frosting for a refreshing zing that brightens the flavors beautifully.
Each of these variations and substitutions invites you to explore your own personal touches while savoring this festive treat!
Festive Chocolate Peppermint Bread Recipe FAQs
What type of cocoa powder should I use for the bread?
For this festive chocolate peppermint bread, you can use either natural or Dutch-process cocoa powder. Natural cocoa powder will give you an acidic flavor that pairs well with baking soda, while Dutch-process provides a milder taste. I often recommend going with Dutch-process for a richer chocolate flavor!
How can I store my chocolate peppermint bread?
Store your festive chocolate peppermint bread at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This method keeps it moist and delicious. If you prefer refrigeration, you can wrap it tightly and store it for up to a week, but be aware it may lose some of that delightful tenderness.
Can I freeze the chocolate peppermint bread?
Absolutely! For long-term storage, wrap your bread tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil and freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then add the frosting afterward to keep it fresh and beautiful.
What should I do if my bread didn’t rise properly?
If your festive chocolate peppermint bread didn’t rise as expected, there are a few common culprits. First, check the freshness of your baking powder and baking soda—they can lose their effectiveness over time. Alternatively, make sure your butter was softened to room temperature and mixed thoroughly with the sugars. Finally, avoid overmixing the batter; this can lead to a dense loaf rather than a light, fluffy one.
Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Yes! If you’re baking for someone with allergies, be aware that this recipe contains gluten from all-purpose flour, dairy from milk and butter, and eggs. If you need to cater to dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free flour blends and dairy alternatives. As for festive presentation, the crushed candy canes do contain sugar and can pose a choking hazard for pets, so keep them away from these decorations!
How can I tell if my festive chocolate peppermint bread is done baking?
To check for doneness, insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the loaf when the timer goes off at 50 minutes. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, your bread is perfectly tender. If there’s wet batter, give it a few more minutes in the oven. Remember, it’s better to check early than let it overbake!
Festive Chocolate Peppermint Bread for Your Winter Table
Equipment
- - Loaf pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Sifter
Ingredients
For the Bread
- 1 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder choose natural or Dutch-process for flavor
- 1 tablespoon Espresso Powder enhances chocolate depth
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour measure carefully
- 1 teaspoon Baking Powder for leavening
- 1 teaspoon Baking Soda for leavening
- 1/2 cup Butter softened
- 3/4 cup Brown Sugar for added depth
- 1/4 cup White Sugar
- 2 large Eggs room temperature
- 1 cup Milk
- 1 cup Dark Chocolate Chips chopped finely
- 1 teaspoon Peppermint Extract for festive flavor
For the Frosting
- 2 cups Powdered Sugar sifted
- 1/4 cup Greek Yogurt optional for texture
- 1 cup Milk for frosting consistency
- 1 teaspoon Peppermint Extract
- 1/2 cup Crushed Candy Canes for garnish
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a loaf pan.
- Bring butter and eggs to room temperature.
- Sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, espresso powder, and salt.
- Beat butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time and mix in peppermint extract.
- Gradually combine dry ingredients and milk, then fold in dark chocolate chips.
- Pour batter into the pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes and check with a toothpick for doneness.
- Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prepare frosting by beating powdered sugar, Greek yogurt, milk, and peppermint extract.
- Frost the cooled bread and garnish with crushed candy canes.