Chocolate Peppermint Bread – A Decadent Holiday Treat

Introduction

If you’re a fan of rich chocolate flavors with a refreshing peppermint twist, then this Chocolate Peppermint Bread is the perfect treat for you. This indulgent bread combines the deep, velvety taste of cocoa with the coolness of peppermint, making it a delightful dessert or snack, especially during the holiday season. Whether you’re baking for Christmas gatherings, gifting homemade treats, or just craving a cozy winter dessert, this chocolate peppermint quick bread will satisfy every chocolate lover’s dream.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to bake the perfect Chocolate Peppermint Bread, including step-by-step instructions, variations, topping ideas, expert baking tips, and frequently asked questions. Let’s dive into this festive and irresistible chocolate creation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist & Flavorful – Rich cocoa and refreshing peppermint make every bite irresistible.
• Easy to Make – No yeast needed, just mix, bake, and enjoy!
• Perfect for the Holidays – A festive dessert for Christmas parties and gifting.
• Customizable – Add toppings, mix-ins, or even turn it into muffins.
• Freezer-Friendly – Make ahead and enjoy anytime.

Ingredients

To make the best Chocolate Peppermint Bread, gather the following ingredients:

Dry Ingredients:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp instant espresso powder (optional, enhances chocolate flavor)

Wet Ingredients:

• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup buttermilk (or substitute with milk + 1 tsp vinegar)
• ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp peppermint extract
• ½ cup hot water (or hot coffee for richer flavor)

Mix-Ins & Toppings:

• ¾ cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
• ½ cup crushed peppermint candies
• ½ cup powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
• ½ cup melted white chocolate (for drizzling, optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and instant espresso powder.

3. Combine the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until smooth.

4. Add Hot Water

Slowly stir in hot water or coffee to the wet ingredients. This helps bloom the cocoa powder, enhancing the chocolate flavor.

5. Combine Wet & Dry Mixtures

Gradually fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.

6. Fold in Chocolate Chips

Gently stir in chocolate chips for extra melty goodness.

7. Pour into Loaf Pan

Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.

8. Bake Until Done

Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

9. Cool & Add Toppings

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Drizzle with melted white chocolate and sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top.

10. Serve & Enjoy

Slice and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee!

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Variations to Try

1. Chocolate Peppermint Muffins

• Divide batter into muffin tins and bake for 18-20 minutes.
• Top with mini marshmallows or chocolate ganache.

2. Extra Fudgy Version

• Increase chocolate chips to 1 cup.
• Add ¼ cup sour cream for extra moisture.

3. Gluten-Free Option

• Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
• Add 1 extra egg for better structure.

4. Vegan Chocolate Peppermint Bread

• Replace eggs with flax eggs (2 tbsp ground flax + 6 tbsp water).
• Use almond milk + vinegar instead of buttermilk.
• Swap vegetable oil for coconut oil.

What to Serve with Chocolate Peppermint Bread

• Hot Chocolate: Pair with a warm cup for the ultimate cozy treat.
• Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: Add vanilla or peppermint ice cream on top.
• Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries balance the richness.
• Peppermint Mocha Coffee: A perfect match for this festive bread.

Tips for the Best Chocolate Peppermint Bread

• Use High-Quality Cocoa Powder: Dutch-processed cocoa gives a deeper chocolate flavor.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon and level the flour to avoid a dense loaf.
• Don’t Overmix: Stir just until ingredients are combined for a tender texture.
• Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick; it should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.
• Store Properly: Wrap tightly and store at room temperature for 3 days or in the fridge for 1 week.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers:

• Room Temperature: Keep in an airtight container for 3 days.
• Refrigerate: Store in the fridge for up to 1 week.
• Freeze: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions:

• Oven: Warm at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat for 15-20 seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Yes! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.

2. Can I use peppermint candy extract instead of peppermint extract?

Yes, but peppermint candy extract is much stronger, so reduce the amount to ½ tsp.

3. How do I prevent my chocolate chips from sinking?

Toss them in 1 tbsp flour before folding them into the batter.

4. Can I make this into a layer cake?

Yes! Double the recipe and bake in two 8-inch cake pans.

5. How do I make this sugar-free?

Use a sugar substitute like monk fruit or erythritol and sugar-free chocolate chips.

Conclusion

This Chocolate Peppermint Bread is the perfect blend of rich, chocolatey goodness and refreshing peppermint, making it a festive must-have during the holiday season. Whether you serve it as a breakfast treat, holiday dessert, or edible gift, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone.

Try this easy-to-make, decadent bread today and enjoy a slice of holiday magic!

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