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Chocolate Peppermint Bread

Indulge in the festive flavors of this moist and rich Chocolate Peppermint Bread! This delightful holiday treat combines deep chocolate notes with refreshing hints of peppermint, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and seasonal charm. Drizzle with a peppermint glaze or sprinkle with crushed candy canes for an irresistible finish. Whether served as a dessert, a holiday gift, or paired with a warm cup of cocoa, this bread is sure to spread joy. Get ready to bake up some holiday cheer with this easy-to-follow recipe!

Ingredients

Scale
  • For the Bread:
    • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
    • ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
    • 1 tsp baking powder
    • ½ tsp baking soda
    • ½ tsp salt
    • 1 cup granulated sugar
    • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
    • 2 large eggs
    • ½ cup buttermilk
    • 1 tsp vanilla extract
    • ½ tsp peppermint extract
  • For the Glaze:
    • 1 cup powdered sugar
    • 2 tbsp milk (or as needed)
    • ¼ tsp peppermint extract
    • Crushed candy canes (optional, for topping)

Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare 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.
2️⃣ Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3️⃣ Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and peppermint extracts.
4️⃣ Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
5️⃣ Bake the Bread: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
6️⃣ Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and peppermint extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more milk, if needed.
7️⃣ Decorate and Serve: Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread and sprinkle with crushed candy canes, if desired. Slice and enjoy!

Notes

  • Substitute peppermint extract with mint extract for a milder flavor.
  • Wrap tightly and store at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Keywords: holiday baking, peppermint dessert, chocolate bread recipe, festive treats, easy holiday desserts