Description of this recipe Indulge in the ultimate holiday treat with this Chocolate Peppermint Bread. A delectable combination of rich cocoa, refreshing peppermint, and a moist, tender crumb, this bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack any time of day. Its festive flavors and appealing aroma make it a wonderful addition to your holiday baking repertoire and a delightful gift for friends and family.
Why you will love this recipe
This Chocolate Peppermint Bread is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for several compelling reasons:
- Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The deep, decadent flavor of chocolate is beautifully complemented by the cool, invigorating taste of peppermint. The balance ensures each bite is a harmonious blend of sweetness and freshness.
- Incredibly Moist Texture: Thanks to the addition of Greek yogurt (or sour cream), this bread boasts a moist and tender crumb that stays fresh for days. No dry, crumbly bread here!
- Festive and Eye-Catching: The combination of chocolate, crushed candy canes, and a beautifully risen loaf makes this bread a visual delight. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings, adding a touch of festive charm to your table.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require any special equipment. You can whip it up in under an hour, making it perfect for busy bakers.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the amount of peppermint extract or add extra chocolate chips to suit your personal preferences.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons crushed candy canes (plus more for topping)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper. Lining the pan with parchment paper ensures the bread comes out easily and prevents sticking. The greasing adds an extra layer of non-stick insurance.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisking the dry ingredients ensures that the baking powder and baking soda are evenly distributed, which is crucial for a good rise and even texture.
Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract until smooth. Brown sugar adds moisture and a slight caramel-like flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully. The peppermint extract provides that quintessential holiday flavor.
Step 4: Stir in the Greek yogurt (or sour cream) and milk. Then, gently fold in the dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough bread. The Greek yogurt or sour cream adds moisture and richness to the batter.
Step 5: Fold in the mini chocolate chips and crushed candy canes. These mix-ins add extra bursts of flavor and texture to the bread, making it even more festive and delicious.
Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
Step 7: Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so it’s important to check for doneness with a toothpick.
Step 8: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling the bread completely prevents it from becoming soggy and allows the flavors to meld together.
Step 9: Once cooled, top with more crushed candy canes or drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra touch of holiday cheer.
COOKING Rating: Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Breakfast or Brunch: Serve a slice of Chocolate Peppermint Bread with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa for a festive morning treat.
- Dessert: Enjoy a slice as a simple yet satisfying dessert, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Snack: Perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up.
- Gift Giving: Wrap a loaf in cellophane and tie with a ribbon for a thoughtful and homemade holiday gift.
Tips:
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter will result in a tough bread. Mix until just combined.
- Use Good Quality Cocoa Powder: The quality of your cocoa powder will significantly impact the flavor of the bread. Opt for a high-quality, unsweetened cocoa powder for the best results.
- Adjust Peppermint Extract: Adjust the amount of peppermint extract to your liking. If you prefer a more subtle peppermint flavor, start with 1/2 teaspoon.
- Add Espresso Powder: For a deeper, richer chocolate flavor, add 1 teaspoon of espresso powder to the dry ingredients.
- Store Properly: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour – 1 hour 5 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.)
Calories: Approximately 250-300 calories per slice
Protein: Approximately 4-5 grams per slice
Sodium: Approximately 150-200 mg per slice
Conclusion
This Chocolate Peppermint Bread is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to embrace the joy and flavors of the holiday season. With its moist texture, balanced flavors, and festive appearance, it’s sure to become a cherished tradition in your home. Whether you’re baking it for your family, friends, or a special holiday gathering, this bread will bring smiles and warmth to everyone who enjoys it. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a delicious masterpiece that captures the essence of the holidays.
5 Questions and Answers About This Recipe
Q1: Can I use a different type of flour?
A: While all-purpose flour provides the best texture for this recipe, you can substitute it with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend if you need a gluten-free option. Keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different.
Q2: Can I make this bread ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This bread is perfect for making ahead of time. You can bake it a day or two in advance and store it in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
Q3: Can I freeze this bread?
A: Yes, this bread freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. You can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Q4: Can I use peppermint oil instead of peppermint extract?
A: Yes, but be very careful! Peppermint oil is much more concentrated than peppermint extract. Start with just a drop or two and taste the batter before adding more. Too much peppermint oil can make the bread taste medicinal.
Q5: Can I add white chocolate chips instead of mini chocolate chips?
A: Absolutely! White chocolate chips would be a delicious addition to this bread. You could also use a combination of white and dark chocolate chips for a more complex flavor.
