Delicious Chocolate Peppermint Bread (Moist & Festive Holiday Loaf)

Introduction

There’s something magical about the holiday season when your kitchen fills with the scent of Delicious Chocolate Peppermint Bread. This moist and decadent treat combines rich cocoa, melty chocolate chips, and a refreshing burst of peppermint, making it the ultimate festive dessert bread. Whether you call it a Chocolate Peppermint Loaf, a holiday chocolate peppermint loaf, or simply your new go-to Christmas recipe, this bread brings comfort, joy, and a touch of elegance to any table.

Imagine serving thick slices of this loaf with a warm mug of cocoa, gifting it as a homemade holiday present, or enjoying it as a sweet breakfast treat. In this article, you’ll discover why this peppermint chocolate bread is loved by so many, how to make it perfectly every time, and expert tips that ensure bakery-quality results.

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Chocolate Peppermint Bread

Rich, Chocolatey Flavor – thanks to cocoa powder and melted chocolate chips.
Refreshing Peppermint Twist – a cool burst that balances the sweetness.
Quick & Easy to Bake – no fancy equipment required, just a loaf pan.
Perfect for Gifting – wrap in festive paper for holiday gifts.
Moist, Tender Crumb – from milk, eggs, and a touch of oil.
Festive Look & Aroma – crushed peppermint candies make it irresistible.
Budget-Friendly Ingredients – pantry staples with a holiday twist.
Beginner-Friendly – straightforward steps with pro tips included.

Ingredients

To bake your own homemade chocolate peppermint bread, gather these simple yet powerful ingredients:

All-purpose flour (2 cups) – the base for structure and tenderness.
Granulated sugar (1 cup) – enhances sweetness and balances cocoa’s bitterness.
Unsweetened cocoa powder (½ cup) – for rich, deep chocolate flavor.
Baking powder (2 teaspoons) – ensures the loaf rises perfectly.
Salt (½ teaspoon) – sharpens flavors and balances sweetness.
Eggs (2 large) – bind ingredients and add moisture.
Milk (1 cup) – creates a tender, soft crumb.
Vegetable oil (½ cup) – adds richness and prevents dryness.
Peppermint extract (1 teaspoon) – infuses the bread with refreshing coolness.
Chocolate chips (1 cup) – pockets of gooey chocolate in every bite.
Crushed peppermint candies (¼ cup) – festive garnish and crunchy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions & Tips

Swap vegetable oil with melted butter for a richer flavor.
Use dark chocolate chips for a more intense chocolate experience.
Add Greek yogurt instead of some milk for a denser, moist loaf.
Make it dairy-free with almond milk and vegan chocolate chips.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat eggs, then mix in milk, oil, and peppermint extract. The mixture should look smooth and glossy.

Step 4: Blend Wet & Dry

Slowly pour wet mixture into dry ingredients. Gently fold until combined – don’t overmix or your loaf will be dense.

Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in chocolate chips for extra bursts of chocolatey goodness.

Step 6: Transfer Batter & Garnish

Pour batter into loaf pan. Smooth top and sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 50–55 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 8: Cool & Serve

Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice, serve, and enjoy the perfect chocolate peppermint dessert bread.

Pro Tips for the Best Results

How do you keep Delicious Chocolate Peppermint Bread moist?

Use oil instead of butter, don’t overbake, and let it rest covered once cooled to lock in moisture.

Can you freeze chocolate peppermint loaf?

Yes! Wrap slices in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer bag. Keeps for 3 months.

Can I use candy canes instead of peppermint candies?

Absolutely! Crushed candy canes work just as well for garnish and crunch.

Best Ways to Serve

This festive chocolate peppermint loaf is versatile and perfect for:

Serving warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Pairing with peppermint mocha or hot chocolate.
Gifting in holiday tins with ribbon.
Toasting slices and spreading with cream cheese for a breakfast twist.

Nutrition (Per Slice – based on 12 servings)

Calories: 280
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 22g
Protein: 5g

Storage & Leftovers

Room Temperature: Store in airtight container for 3 days.
Refrigerator: Keeps up to 7 days.
Freezer: Slice, wrap, and freeze for 2–3 months. Thaw overnight in fridge.
Reheating: Warm in microwave for 15–20 seconds for gooey chocolate chips.

FAQs

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Yes, substitute 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, bake in two loaf pans or a bundt pan, adjusting bake time.

Is this more of a cake or a bread?

Technically, it’s a quick bread, similar in texture to cake but baked in loaf form.

Variations

Chocolate Peppermint Swirl Bread – swirl in cream cheese filling.
Moist Chocolate Peppermint Bread with Glaze – drizzle with peppermint glaze.
Vegan Chocolate Mint Quick Bread – use flax eggs and almond milk.
Holiday Chocolate Peppermint Loaf with Nuts – add walnuts or pecans.
Chocolate Peppermint Dessert Bread Muffins – bake batter in muffin tins.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a festive bake that combines nostalgia, flavor, and beauty, this Delicious Chocolate Peppermint Bread is your answer. With its tender crumb, rich chocolate notes, and refreshing peppermint crunch, it’s the perfect treat for cozy winter mornings, holiday parties, and thoughtful edible gifts.