Decadent Chocolate Peppermint Bread Recipe

There’s something about the mix of chocolate and peppermint that instantly makes you think of the holidays. The rich cocoa paired with cool peppermint creates a cozy balance that feels both indulgent and refreshing. That’s where this Decadent Chocolate Peppermint Bread comes in—it’s part dessert, part snack, and entirely comforting.

This recipe is simple enough for a casual weekend bake, but special enough to bring to gatherings or gift to friends. It’s moist, chocolatey, and has just the right hint of peppermint that lingers after each bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 teaspoon vinegar as substitute)
• ½ cup mini chocolate chips
• Crushed peppermint candies (optional, for topping)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the oven and pan
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix the dry ingredients
   In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugar
   In a large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step gives the bread its tender crumb.
4. Add eggs and flavorings
   Mix in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla and peppermint extract.
5. Alternate wet and dry
   Add the flour mixture in three parts, alternating with buttermilk. Begin and end with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix.
6. Fold in chocolate chips
   Gently stir in mini chocolate chips for extra richness.
7. Bake
   Pour batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean (a few moist crumbs are okay).
8. Cool and decorate
   Let the bread cool completely. If you’d like, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top for a festive touch.

Kitchen Tools Needed

• 9×5-inch loaf pan
• Mixing bowls (one medium, one large)
• Electric mixer (hand or stand)
• Whisk and spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooling rack

Recipe Notes

• Peppermint extract can be strong. Start with 1 teaspoon, taste, and adjust if you want a bolder flavor.
• For extra crunch, mix crushed peppermint candies into the batter along with chocolate chips.
• Dark cocoa powder will give you a deeper, richer chocolate taste.
• If you don’t have buttermilk, the milk + vinegar substitute works well.

Extra Tips to Make It Perfect

• Don’t overbake. Keep an eye on it around 50 minutes—dry chocolate bread loses its magic.
• Room temperature ingredients help everything mix smoothly. Cold eggs or butter can lead to a dense loaf.
• Storage-friendly topping: If you add crushed candies on top, do it just before serving. Otherwise, they can melt into the bread over time.

Time & Serving

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Servings: 10–12 slices

Storage

• Room temperature: Keep wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Lasts about 5 days. Let slices come to room temperature before serving.
• Freezer: Wrap loaf (or slices) in foil and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before enjoying.

Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving, approx.)

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How to Serve

This bread is versatile. Serve it warm with coffee on a cold morning, slice it up for a holiday brunch, or drizzle with melted chocolate for dessert. You could even toast it lightly and spread cream cheese or whipped butter for a decadent twist.

Health Benefits (in moderation)

• Dark cocoa is rich in antioxidants, which support heart health.
• Peppermint may aid digestion and bring a refreshing aftertaste.
• Homemade baking lets you control ingredients—fewer preservatives than store-bought desserts.

Of course, it’s still a sweet treat, so enjoy in balance.

FAQs About Chocolate Peppermint Bread

1. Can I use fresh mint instead of peppermint extract?
Not really—it won’t give the same concentrated flavor. Stick with extract.

2. How do I make this bread more festive?
Add white chocolate chips or a drizzle of peppermint glaze on top.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Check baking time since it may vary slightly.

4. Does it taste more like cake or bread?
It’s a quick bread, so it’s moist and sweet—closer to cake in texture.

5. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just bake in two loaf pans and check for doneness around the 55-minute mark.

Final Thoughts

Chocolate and peppermint are one of those timeless duos that instantly feel special. This bread takes that combination and turns it into something easy enough to bake on a weeknight, yet festive enough for holidays. It’s rich, moist, and perfectly balanced with a refreshing hint of mint.

I think you’ll find yourself making it not just in December but any time you crave a slice of cozy comfort. Maybe serve it with hot cocoa, or wrap it up as a homemade gift—it’s one of those recipes that never disappoints.