Irresistible Festive Chocolate Peppermint Bread Recipe
Delight in the rich flavors of this Festive Chocolate Peppermint Bread that fills your home with cozy winter aromas.
Equipment
- - Loaf pan
- Mixing bowl
- Sifter
- Spatula
- Wire rack
Ingredients
For the Bread
- 1/2 lb Butter, softened Ensure it’s at room temperature for a tender crumb.
- 2/3 cup Brown Sugar, packed Can substitute with light brown sugar.
- 1/3 cup White Sugar Sweetness and structure enhancer.
- 3 large Eggs, room temperature Use room temperature for better emulsification.
- 1 1/3 cup All-Purpose Flour Consider using a gluten-free blend.
- 2/3 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder Natural cocoa and Dutch-process can be used interchangeably.
- 2 tsp Baking Powder Ensure freshness for best results.
- 1 tsp Baking Soda Ensure freshness for best results.
- 1 tsp Espresso Powder Can skip but may lose depth of flavor.
- pinch Salt Enhances flavor.
- 3/4 cup Milk Use whole milk for richness or dairy alternative as needed.
- 1/4 tsp Peppermint Extract Provides festive peppermint flavor; adjust quantity to taste.
- 1/2 cup Dark Chocolate Chips, finely chopped Can substitute with semi-sweet chocolate.
For the Frosting
- 1 tbsp Greek Yogurt Adds creaminess to the frosting.
- 2 cups Powdered Sugar Sweetens and thickens frosting.
- 3 tbsp Crushed Candy Canes Adds festive decoration.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
- Sift together the cocoa powder, espresso powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and flour in a bowl.
- Beat the softened butter with both brown and white sugars until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Incorporate the peppermint extract.
- Alternate adding the dry mixture and milk to the creamed mixture, mixing briefly to combine.
- Fold in the chopped chocolate chips gently.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the frosting by mixing powdered sugar, Greek yogurt, milk, and peppermint extract until smooth.
- Drizzle or spread the frosting over the cooled bread, and sprinkle with crushed candy canes.
- Set the frosting for 15-20 minutes before slicing.
Notes
Enjoy a slice with a cup of steaming coffee or cocoa for the perfect winter pairing. To store, keep in an airtight container.