Chocolate Peppermint Bread: A Festive Holiday Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that perfectly captures the spirit of the season, look no further than this Chocolate Peppermint Bread: A Festive Holiday Recipe. It brings together the rich, comforting taste of cocoa with the refreshing zing of peppermint, all wrapped up in a moist, tender loaf. This bread isn’t just dessert; it’s a celebration in every bite, ideal for holiday gatherings, gifting, or cozy winter afternoons with a cup of hot cocoa. The blend of chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candies, finished with a creamy peppermint glaze, creates a treat that’s both nostalgic and delightfully indulgent.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple yet essential, each playing a vital role in balancing flavors, textures, and that irresistible holiday charm in this chocolate peppermint bread.

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of the bread, providing structure and softness.
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds deep, rich chocolate flavor and that festive brown hue.
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda: Helps the bread rise perfectly, lending lightness without being cakey.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Works alongside the baking soda to ensure fluffy texture.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all other flavors.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and a tender crumb.
• ½ cup packed light brown sugar: Adds a hint of caramel richness and moistness to the bread.
• 1 cup buttermilk: Brings tanginess and moisture, making the loaf wonderfully tender.
• ½ cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bread moist and helps with a soft crumb.
• 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and contribute to a rich texture.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances chocolate flavor and adds warmth.
• 1 cup boiling water: Intensifies the cocoa flavor and creates the perfect batter consistency.
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melts into little pockets of gooey chocolate throughout the bread.
• ½ cup crushed peppermint candies, plus more for topping: Infuses every bite with a refreshing mint kick and adds playful texture.
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract: Amplifies the peppermint flavor without overpowering the chocolate.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: Forms the base of the smooth peppermint glaze.
• 2-3 tablespoons milk: Adjusts the glaze to a perfect drizzling consistency.
• ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract: Adds subtle mint notes to the glaze for a delightful finish.
• Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness in the glaze.

How to Make Chocolate Peppermint Bread: A Festive Holiday Recipe

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. This ensures all your dry components are evenly distributed, which is key for a consistent crumb and flavor throughout the bread.

Step 2: Prepare Sugars

In a separate bowl, whisk the granulated sugar and light brown sugar together. Breaking up any clumps in the brown sugar helps it blend seamlessly into the batter, contributing to a smooth, cohesive texture and a hint of caramel warmth.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

Whisk together the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract in another bowl. This combination brings moisture, richness, and the festive minty flavor to the bread that sets it apart.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ones while mixing on low speed (either with a hand or electric mixer). Stir until just combined—overmixing can make the bread tough, and we want it as tender as a winter morning’s first snowfall.

Step 5: Add Boiling Water

Slowly pour the boiling water into the batter while mixing on low speed. This might surprise you, but the hot water helps bloom the cocoa powder, intensifying the chocolate flavor and resulting in an ultra-moist loaf. The batter will be thin, but that’s exactly right.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Peppermint Candies

Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candies. Save a handful of each for sprinkling on top later for that beautiful finishing touch and extra festive flair.

Step 7: Prepare and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×5 inch loaf pan by greasing and flouring it, or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal. Pour in the batter and smooth the top. Sprinkle the reserved chocolate chips and peppermint candies over the surface for a stunning, festive look.

Step 8: Bake Until Perfect

Bake the bread for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be pure holiday magic!

Step 9: Cool and Glaze

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. While it cools, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, peppermint extract, and a pinch of salt for the glaze. Adjust milk to get the perfect drizzling consistency.

Step 10: Decorate and Serve

Once the bread is completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top and immediately sprinkle crushed peppermint candies or chocolate shavings over it. Allow the glaze to set for about 15-20 minutes before slicing. Every slice offers an irresistible combination of chocolate and mint with a tender crumb that melts in your mouth.

How to Serve Chocolate Peppermint Bread: A Festive Holiday Recipe

Garnishes

Adding a simple garnish can elevate this bread beautifully. Glittery crushed peppermint candies or a dusting of powdered sugar bring festive sparkle. For extra indulgence, drizzle melted chocolate or even a ribbon of cream cheese frosting to make it truly show-stopping.

Side Dishes

This bread shines when paired with cozy accompaniments. Think a steaming cup of peppermint mocha, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert worthy of any holiday table. You might also serve slices alongside fresh fruit or sparkling cider for a refreshing contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation is part of the magic. Serve Chocolate Peppermint Bread: A Festive Holiday Recipe on a decorative platter lined with pine sprigs and cranberries for a holiday centerpiece. Wrapping individual slices in parchment paper tied with a festive ribbon also makes charming edible gifts for friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps it moist and fresh—and honestly, it rarely lasts that long because it’s just so delicious!

Freezing

If you want to prepare ahead or save some for later, wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. It will keep beautifully for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Reheating

To bring back that freshly baked warmth, gently microwave slices for 15-20 seconds or reheat in a low oven (about 300°F) wrapped in foil. This refreshes the chocolatey, minty goodness and soft crumb perfectly.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, if you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using. This will mimic the acidity of buttermilk, helping the bread rise and tenderize.

Are the crushed peppermint candies necessary?

While they add an iconic peppermint crunch and festive look, you can omit or reduce them if desired. Regular candy canes crushed fine work well, or just increase the peppermint extract slightly for extra flavor without the texture.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, try substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum. It may affect texture slightly, but the chocolate peppermint flavor will still shine.

How do I prevent the chocolate chips from sinking?

To keep chocolate chips from sinking to the bottom, toss them lightly in flour before folding into the batter. This little trick helps them stay suspended evenly throughout the bread.

Is this bread suitable for kids?

Absolutely! The Chocolate Peppermint Bread: A Festive Holiday Recipe is a family-friendly treat that brings fun and festive flavors loved by kids and adults alike. Just keep peppermint candies away from very young children to avoid choking hazards.

Final Thoughts

There is something utterly heartwarming about baking and sharing this Chocolate Peppermint Bread: A Festive Holiday Recipe during the holidays. It’s an easy recipe that delivers festive flavors with every slice, perfect for creating joyful moments with loved ones. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a beloved tradition in your own kitchen.

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