Ah, Chocolate Peppermint Bread! Just the name makes my taste buds tingle with excitement! This delightful recipe has become a holiday staple in my home, and if you ask me, there’s no better way to embrace the festive spirit. The first time I made this bread was during one particularly busy December. I decided to whip up something cozy on a chilly evening, and I swear it filled my entire apartment with the aroma of Christmas magic. The combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint is like receiving a warm hug while sipping hot cocoa – absolutely heavenly!
This bread is not just a feast for the senses; it’s also a wonderful way to bring people together. Whether it’s for a cozy brunch, as a gift to friends and family, or a sweet treat for yourself (no judgment here!), this bread will surely be the star of the table. Now, let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special!
What’s in Chocolate Peppermint Bread?
All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of this bread, providing structure and a lovely chewy texture. I usually use unbleached flour for a more natural flavor!
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder enriches the bread with a deep chocolate flavor. I recommend using high-quality cocoa, like Dutch-processed, for the best results.
Sugar: This will sweeten up the bread beautifully! I typically stick with granulated sugar, but feel free to experiment if you’re feeling adventurous.
Baking Powder: This lovely ingredient gives our bread its rise. Make sure it’s fresh for that perfect fluffy texture!
Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors. It’s like the unsung hero of every baked good.
Milk: The liquid that brings our batter together! I usually opt for whole milk, but any non-dairy milk will do just fine.
Vegetable Oil: This keeps our bread moist and tender. You can substitute it with melted coconut oil for a lovely hint of flavor!
Eggs: These help bind everything together and add richness to our bread. If you’re vegan, flax eggs work nicely as a substitute.
Chocolate Chips: Mini or regular, these little drops of joy melt into luscious pockets of chocolate throughout the bread. I suggest using semi-sweet for that perfect balance!
Peppermint Extract: The star of the show! It gives that refreshing peppermint flavor that pairs beautifully with the chocolate. Use pure extract for the best results!
Candy Cane Crumbles: Optional, but oh-so-fun! This adds both a crunchy texture and festive flair on top of the finished bread.
Is Chocolate Peppermint Bread Good for You?
Well, my friend, let’s get real for a second. Chocolate Peppermint Bread is not exactly a health food, but it has its moments of goodness!
Cocoa Powder: Did you know this magical ingredient is rich in antioxidants? It also contains minerals like magnesium and iron.
Eggs: Packed with protein and essential vitamins, eggs provide some nutritional value, making you feel a little less guilty about indulging!
Just keep in mind, while this bread is a delight, it’s still a treat. Enjoy it in moderation, especially if you’re watching your sugar intake. And hey, share it when you can – nothing feels better than spreading joy (and calories) with friends and family!
Ingredients List
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk (or non-dairy milk)
– ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
– 2 large eggs (or 2 flax eggs)
– 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet)
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– Optional: crushed candy canes for topping
This recipe will yield about one loaf, which serves about 8-10 slices (depending on how thick you like your slices – no judging here either!).
How to Make Chocolate Peppermint Bread?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix well, ensuring there are no lumps.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, and eggs (or flax eggs). Add in the peppermint extract and give it another good whisk.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold them together until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix!
5. Fold in those glorious chocolate chips, reserving a few to sprinkle on top if you like!
6. Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. If you’re feeling festive, sprinkle the top with crushed candy canes.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Once out of the oven, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Slice it up and enjoy! Spread a thin layer of butter for an extra indulgent experience!
Sweet Tips for Your Baking Adventure
– This bread is easily customizable. Add in some chopped nuts or dried fruits if you want to get creative!
– Don’t forget to check your baking powder’s expiration date – fresh powder means fluffier bread!
– This bread can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week (if it lasts that long!) and makes an excellent gift!
– Serve it with your favorite hot beverage, like coffee or a cozy peppermint latte. Trust me, it’s the perfect pairing!
I hope you find joy in baking this delicious Chocolate Peppermint Bread just as I have. It’s more than just a recipe – it’s a treat that carries the warmth of the holidays with every bite. I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Happy baking!
