Name: Irresistibly Delicious Chocolate Peppermint Loaf Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp baking soda; ¼ tsp salt; 1 cup sugar; 2 large eggs; ½ cup sour cream; 1 cup whole milk; ½ cup vegetable oil; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ½ tsp peppermint extract; ½ cup boiling water; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 tbsp milk (more if needed); ½ tsp peppermint extract; Crushed candy canes or chocolate shavings (optional, for topping)

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Introduction

Chocolate Peppermint Loaf is a delightful treat that brings joy to any gathering. This loaf combines rich, fudgy chocolate with a refreshing hint of peppermint, making it perfect for holiday celebrations or cozy afternoons. Whether you’re baking for yourself or as a thoughtful homemade gift, this loaf promises to be irresistible to anyone who takes a bite.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Peppermint Loaf

This Chocolate Peppermint Loaf is not just a dessert; it’s an experience! Here are a few reasons why you’ll love it:

Rich, fudgy flavor that chocolate lovers crave.
Refreshing peppermint adds a unique twist.
Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet gift.
Easy to make with simple ingredients.
Can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Pairs beautifully with coffee or hot cocoa.

This easy peppermint chocolate loaf is also a vegetarian-friendly treat, making it a hit for various dietary preferences.

Ingredients for Chocolate Peppermint Loaf

Gather these items:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
¼ tsp salt
1 cup sugar
2 large eggs
½ cup sour cream
1 cup whole milk
½ cup vegetable oil
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp peppermint extract
½ cup boiling water
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tbsp milk (more if needed)
½ tsp peppermint extract
Crushed candy canes or chocolate shavings (optional, for topping)

How to Make Chocolate Peppermint Loaf Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, sour cream, milk, vegetable oil, vanilla, and peppermint extract until smooth.
Step 4: Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Stir in the boiling water. The batter will be thin; this helps make the loaf moist and tender.
Step 6: Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover with foil.
Step 7: Allow the loaf to cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro Tips for the Best Chocolate Peppermint Loaf

Keep these in mind:

Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for the best mixing results.
Try not to overmix the batter; it should be just combined for a tender loaf.
Cover the loaf with foil if it starts to brown too quickly while baking.

Best Ways to Serve Chocolate Peppermint Loaf

Here are a couple of ideas to enjoy your loaf:

Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat.
Top with crushed candy canes or chocolate shavings for a festive look.

This loaf makes a wonderful addition to holiday parties, complementing any peppermint chocolate cake spread you may have!

How to Store and Reheat Chocolate Peppermint Loaf

After cooling, store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it well and freeze for up to a month. To reheat, simply warm slices in the microwave for a few seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chocolate Peppermint Loaf

What’s the secret to perfect Chocolate Peppermint Loaf?

The secret lies in not overmixing the batter and ensuring you use fresh ingredients. This helps in achieving a moist texture and a rich flavor that stands out.

Can I make Chocolate Peppermint Loaf ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the loaf a day in advance. Just store it properly, and it will be ready to serve when you need it.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chocolate Peppermint Loaf?

To avoid mistakes, ensure all ingredients are measured accurately and follow the mixing instructions carefully. Avoid opening the oven door too early while baking.

Variations of Chocolate Peppermint Loaf You Can Try

Here are some fun variations to consider:

Substitute half the flour with almond flour for a nutty flavor.
Add chocolate chips or chunks to the batter for extra gooeyness.
Use white chocolate instead of regular chocolate for a sweeter twist.

These variations can cater to different dietary preferences while maintaining the classic American taste of this easy peppermint chocolate loaf.

Irresistibly Delicious Chocolate Peppermint Loaf Recipe - Chocolate Peppermint Loaf - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making Pepperoni Ricotta Pizza for a savory option. If you’re looking for a sweet treat, our Cosmic Brownie Bites are a must-try!

For more information on the health benefits of peppermint, you can visit Healthline.