Chocolate Peppermint Bread Recipe: A Delicious Holiday Treat

Chocolate Peppermint Bread is the perfect holiday dessert or anytime treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and the refreshing zest of peppermint. This easy-to-make bread is a crowd-pleaser, often served around the winter holidays but delicious enough for any time of the year. Whether you’re baking it as a festive dessert for a holiday gathering or simply craving a sweet, chocolatey indulgence, this recipe is a must-try.

In this article, we will take a deep dive into the Chocolate Peppermint Bread recipe, explore its origins, the magic of combining chocolate and peppermint, tips for perfect results, and creative ways to serve it. With detailed instructions, nutritional insights, and answers to frequently asked questions, you’ll become a pro at baking this irresistible bread.

Why You Should Try Chocolate Peppermint Bread

The pairing of chocolate and peppermint has become a holiday staple. The cool, crisp flavor of peppermint is the perfect contrast to the deep, rich sweetness of chocolate, making it a match made in baking heaven. Whether you are creating something festive for the holidays or simply enjoying a special treat, Chocolate Peppermint Bread offers the best of both worlds. With a soft, moist crumb, a sweet glaze, and crunchy peppermint pieces, every slice is pure bliss.

Let’s look at how to make this delicious recipe step by step.

Ingredients for Chocolate Peppermint Bread

To get started, you’ll need to gather the following ingredients for the Chocolate Peppermint Bread:

For the Bread:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder – This adds a rich, chocolatey flavor and is key to creating the deep color and taste.
• 1 tsp baking soda – To help the bread rise and create a fluffy texture.
• ½ tsp salt – To balance the sweetness of the other ingredients.
• ¾ cup granulated sugar – For the perfect level of sweetness.
• ½ cup brown sugar – Adds a slight molasses flavor that deepens the sweetness.
• ½ cup unsalted butter (melted) – This ensures the bread has a moist, tender crumb.
• 2 large eggs – Eggs provide structure and moisture.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – For a touch of warmth and depth of flavor.
• 1 tsp peppermint extract – The key ingredient for that cool, refreshing peppermint flavor.
• ¾ cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 tsp vinegar) – Buttermilk helps tenderize the bread and adds richness.
• ½ cup mini chocolate chips – These little bursts of chocolate bring extra indulgence.

For the Glaze & Topping:

• 1 cup powdered sugar – Sweetens the glaze.
• 2 tbsp milk – Adds the right consistency to the glaze (adjust to achieve desired thickness).
• ½ tsp peppermint extract – Enhances the peppermint flavor in the glaze.
• ¼ cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes – For a crunchy texture and extra peppermint flavor on top.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Baking Chocolate Peppermint Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

Before you begin baking, it’s important to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper. This will prevent the bread from sticking and ensure easy removal after baking.

Start by whisking together the dry ingredients in one bowl. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. This mixture creates the foundation for the bread and helps evenly distribute the ingredients.

In a separate bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract. Stir well until everything is fully incorporated.

Once both mixtures are ready, add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Be careful not to overmix at this point—just stir until everything is combined. The batter should be thick and slightly pourable. Fold in the mini chocolate chips to distribute them evenly throughout the batter.

Step 2: Bake the Bread

Now that the batter is ready, pour it into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Once the bread is done, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. After that, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important to ensure the bread firms up and maintains its perfect texture.

Step 3: Make the Glaze and Decorate

While the bread cools, you can prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and peppermint extract until smooth. The glaze should be pourable but not too thin, so feel free to adjust the milk quantity as needed.

Once the bread has cooled completely, drizzle the glaze over the top of the loaf. Finally, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies or candy canes over the glaze for a festive touch.

Serving and Enjoying Chocolate Peppermint Bread

This bread pairs wonderfully with a hot beverage like coffee, hot chocolate, or even a cold glass of milk. It’s the perfect addition to any holiday brunch or dessert table. Slice it up and serve it at your next party, or enjoy it as a sweet snack throughout the week.

Creative Variations of Chocolate Peppermint Bread

While this Chocolate Peppermint Bread recipe is delicious as is, you can get creative with variations. Here are some ideas to make this bread your own:

1. Add white chocolate chips: Add a festive touch by incorporating white chocolate chips along with the mini chocolate chips for an extra layer of sweetness.
2. Top with crushed Oreos: For an added texture contrast, top the bread with crushed Oreo cookies before baking.
3. Make a Chocolate Peppermint Swirl: Swirl a bit of chocolate ganache or peppermint chocolate chips into the batter before baking to give the bread a marbled effect.

Nutritional Information and Healthier Substitutes

While Chocolate Peppermint Bread is a treat, it’s important to keep an eye on the nutritional content if you’re mindful of your health. Here’s an overview of the nutritional facts per serving (based on 10 slices):

• Calories: ~280 kcal per slice
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 21g

If you’re looking for healthier alternatives, you can swap out ingredients to suit your needs:

• Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber.
• Replace butter with applesauce or Greek yogurt for a lower-fat option.
• Use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor with less sugar.

FAQs about Chocolate Peppermint Bread

1. Can I make Chocolate Peppermint Bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the bread ahead of time. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the bread for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply leave it at room temperature for a few hours or microwave for a few seconds.

2. Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with regular milk mixed with 1 teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes to mimic the acidity of buttermilk.

3. Can I make this bread without peppermint extract?
If you’re not a fan of peppermint, you can substitute it with vanilla extract or almond extract for a different flavor profile. While it won’t have the refreshing minty flavor, it will still taste delicious.

4. Can I use dark chocolate chips instead of mini chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Dark chocolate chips will add a more intense chocolate flavor, which pairs beautifully with the peppermint.

5. Can I add nuts to the bread?
Yes, feel free to add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for an added crunch.

Conclusion

Chocolate Peppermint Bread is the ultimate holiday treat, bringing together the rich flavors of chocolate and the refreshing kick of peppermint. This moist, flavorful bread is easy to make, and with its sweet glaze and festive crushed peppermint topping, it’s the perfect addition to your holiday celebrations.

Whether you enjoy it as an after-dinner dessert or a snack with your favorite beverage, this bread will surely delight your taste buds. And with its ability to be customized with variations like white chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or a chocolate swirl, you can make it uniquely yours.

If you’re ready to bake, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the sweet rewards of this delightful Chocolate Peppermint Bread!

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