The Ultimate Chocolate Peppermint Bread Recipe for Sweet Lovers

Chocolate peppermint bread whispers winter’s sweet embrace through a delectable fusion of robust cocoa and invigorating mint.

Each slice promises a sensory journey that dances between rich darkness and bright, cool undertones.

Seasonal bakers love how this recipe upgrades ordinary ingredients into something magical and memorable.

Dessert enthusiasts recognize its power to elevate simple moments into extraordinary experiences.

Warm kitchens fill with an irresistible aroma that beckons friends and family closer.

Soft, moist crumbs promise comfort and celebration in equal measure.

Your taste buds will thank you for this delightful culinary adventure.

What You Need to Make Chocolate Peppermint Bread

• All-Purpose Flour: A standard flour that provides structure and texture to the bread.
• Cocoa Powder: Delivers rich chocolate flavor and deep color to the bread.
• Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: Sweet components that add moisture and caramel undertones.

• Butter: Provides richness and helps create a tender crumb.
• Milk: Adds moisture and helps blend the ingredients smoothly.
• Yogurt: Creates a soft texture and adds subtle tanginess.
• Peppermint Extract: Introduces a cool, refreshing mint flavor to the bread.
• Espresso Powder: Enhances the chocolate flavor with subtle depth.

• Chocolate Chips: Scattered chocolate bits that create pockets of melty goodness.

• Powdered Sugar: Creates a smooth, sweet frosting base.
• Candy Cane Pieces: Adds a festive crunch and additional peppermint flavor.

How to Bake the Best Chocolate Peppermint Bread

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F and grab a loaf pan. Lightly grease the pan with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create the Chocolate Base

• Softened butter
• Sugars
• Cocoa powder
• Espresso powder
• Peppermint extract

Mix until the ingredients are well combined and smooth.

Step 3: Build the Batter

• Flour
• Milk

Stir gently until the batter becomes smooth and consistent. Fold in chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should come out clean.

Step 5: Cool and Prepare Frosting

• Powdered sugar
• Peppermint extract
• Yogurt

Step 6: Finish with Festive Flair

Spread the frosting over the cooled bread. Sprinkle crushed candy cane pieces on top for a delightful crunch and holiday spirit.

Tips for Keeping Your Chocolate Peppermint Bread Moist

• Crush Chocolate Chips: Gently fold chocolate chips into the batter to prevent sinking to the bottom during baking.
• Prevent Dry Bread: Check doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs to ensure a tender texture.
• Enhance Peppermint Flavor: Use fresh peppermint extract for a more vibrant and intense mint taste in both the bread and frosting.
• Perfect Frosting Consistency: Adjust yogurt or powdered sugar gradually to achieve a smooth, spreadable frosting that isn't too runny or thick.
• Cool Completely: Allow bread to cool entirely before frosting to prevent melting and ensure the frosting sets properly on the surface.

How to Store Your Peppermint Bread for Freshness

• Store in an Airtight Container: Wrap the cooled chocolate peppermint bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place inside a sealed container to keep moisture locked in and prevent drying out. Refrigerate for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
• Freeze for Long-Term Storage: Slice the bread before freezing for easier portioning. Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen bread stays delicious for up to 3 months, preserving its rich chocolate and peppermint taste.
• Reheat with Care: Thaw frozen bread at room temperature for best texture. Warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or toast lightly in a toaster oven to restore its soft, moist consistency.

Pair Your Peppermint Bread with Holiday Drinks

• Pair with Smooth Peppermint Mocha: Complement the bread's rich chocolate flavor by serving a creamy peppermint mocha coffee. The espresso notes in the bread will dance beautifully with the warm coffee, creating a delightful winter treat.
• Chill with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Serve a scoop of cold vanilla bean ice cream alongside a slice of warm chocolate peppermint bread. The cool, creamy texture will balance the bread's dense richness and enhance the peppermint undertones.
• Match with Festive Hot Cocoa: Create a cozy drinking experience by pairing the bread with a mug of hot cocoa topped with marshmallows. The chocolate flavors will intensify, making each bite and sip feel like a holiday celebration.
• Complement with Peppermint Tea: Brew a light, refreshing peppermint tea to drink with the bread. The herbal notes will cleanse the palate and highlight the bread's minty essence without overwhelming its chocolate depth.

Experiment with Fun Twists on Peppermint Bread

• Mocha Chocolate Swirl: Increase espresso powder for a stronger coffee flavor, add a cinnamon swirl by mixing ground cinnamon with a portion of the batter before baking.
• Dark Chocolate Orange Bread: Replace peppermint extract with orange zest and orange extract, use dark chocolate chips for a rich, citrusy profile.
• Nutty Chocolate Peppermint: Fold in chopped toasted almonds or pecans into the batter, sprinkle additional nuts on top of the frosting for extra crunch and depth.
• White Chocolate Peppermint Drizzle: Replace standard chocolate chips with white chocolate chips, create a white chocolate glaze instead of yogurt frosting for a lighter, sweeter finish.

Chocolate Peppermint Bread: A Sweet, Festive Holiday Treat

• Savor Holiday Comfort: This bread delivers festive peppermint and chocolate flavors that instantly transport you to cozy winter celebrations, making every slice feel like a warm holiday hug.
• Master Baker's Delight: Surprisingly simple technique creates a rich, moist bread with professional-level results, perfect for bakers of all skill levels who want to impress family and friends.
• Versatile Dessert Wonder: Enjoy as a decadent breakfast treat, elegant afternoon snack, or stunning dessert that works wonderfully for potlucks, gift-giving, or casual weekend indulgence with minimal preparation time.

Chocolate Peppermint Bread Recipe

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4.6 from 25 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Rich chocolate peppermint bread brings winter holiday magic to kitchen counters with delightful minty chocolate notes. Warm spices and cool peppermint create a perfect seasonal treat you’ll crave from first delicious bite.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1 ½ sticks (170 grams) butter, softened
• 3 eggs
• 1 ⅓ cups (160 grams) all-purpose flour
• ⅔ cup (55 grams) cocoa powder
• ¾ cup (180 milliliters) milk (whole or 2%)
• ½ cup (85 grams) dark chocolate chips

Sweeteners and Flavoring:

• ⅓ cup (65 grams) white sugar
• ⅔ cup (135 grams) brown sugar
• ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1 teaspoon espresso powder
• Pinch of salt

Leavening and Topping Ingredients:

• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda

Frosting Ingredients:

• 2 cups (240 grams) powdered sugar
• 4 tablespoons (60 milliliters) milk (whole or 2%)
• ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt
• 3 tablespoons crushed candy canes

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Instructions

1. Warm the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a standard loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray or butter.
2. In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly cream softened butter with granulated and brown sugars until light and fluffy, creating a smooth base.
3. Incorporate unsweetened cocoa powder, finely ground espresso powder, and pure peppermint extract into the butter mixture, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
4. Gradually add all-purpose flour and whole milk to the batter, alternating between dry and wet ingredients to maintain a silky, lump-free consistency.
5. Gently fold semi-sweet chocolate chips into the batter, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture.
6. Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to create an even surface.
7. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with minimal crumbs.
8. Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan for approximately 15-20 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
9. Prepare the peppermint frosting by whisking powdered sugar, additional peppermint extract, and plain yogurt until achieving a smooth, spreadable consistency.
10. Once the bread has cooled, generously spread the frosting over the top, creating a uniform layer.
11. Crush candy cane pieces and sprinkle them over the frosted bread for a festive and crunchy garnish.

Notes

• Cooling helps the bread set and enhances the rich chocolate and peppermint flavors.
• Sprinkle crushed candy canes just before serving for a festive, crunchy topping that adds visual appeal.
• Frosting should be thick yet spreadable, creating a smooth layer that complements the bread’s dense texture.
• Baking time varies depending on your oven, so check doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center.
• Chocolate chips melt slightly during baking, creating delightful pockets of gooey chocolate throughout the bread.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 450 kcal
• Sugar: 50g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 65g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 100mg