Festive Peppermint Mocha Bread
Festive Peppermint Mocha Bread is a delightful treat perfect for the holiday season, combining rich chocolate, refreshing peppermint, and the comforting aroma of coffee. This recipe is not only a feast for the senses but also a joyful experience in the kitchen. With its soft texture and enticing flavors, this bread is perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or a cozy afternoon with a cup of tea. As you slice through this rich loaf, the peppermint chips sparkle like holiday lights, inviting you to indulge. Trust me, it’s worth making this delectable treat that is sure to impress family and friends!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Festive Peppermint Mocha Bread is a showstopper but remains remarkably easy to prepare. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s perfect for bakers of all skill levels, making it a family-friendly project. Not only does the combination of coffee and chocolate create an irresistible flavor, but the festive peppermint adds a refreshing twist that elevates this bread beyond the ordinary. Whether you choose to enjoy it as a holiday breakfast or an afternoon snack, its delightful taste and enticing aroma will surely bring joy to your kitchen.
Ingredients for Festive Peppermint Mocha Bread
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – The backbone of your loaf, providing structure and lightness.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda – This ingredient helps the bread rise beautifully.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – Enhances the sweet flavors in your bread.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweet, sugary goodness that balances the bitter notes of cocoa.
- ½ cup baking cocoa – Adds rich chocolate flavor, making each bite deeply satisfying.
- ¼ cup instant coffee granules – Infuses your bread with a subtle café-inspired essence.
- 1¼ cups sour cream – Creates a moist and tender texture that keeps the bread fresh.
- 2 large eggs – Essential for binding the ingredients and providing richness.
- ⅓ cup melted butter – Adds a lovely buttery flavor while contributing to the moistness.
- 1 cup white chocolate peppermint chips – Introduces bursts of sweet peppermint flavor and a festive flair.
- ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips – For an extra layer of decadent chocolate indulgence.
- 4 tbsp hot fudge sauce (optional topping) – A luscious addition that turns your bread into a dessert.
- 1 crushed candy cane (optional garnish) – For that extra festive touch.
- Non-stick spray for greasing the pan – To ensure your bread releases easily from the pan.
Step-by-Step Directions for Festive Peppermint Mocha Bread
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with non-stick spray to ensure easy removal after baking.
In a medium bowl, combine the dry ingredients. Whisk together the flour, salt, baking soda, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and instant coffee granules until evenly blended.
Prepare the wet mixture. In a separate large bowl, mix the sour cream, eggs, and melted butter until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Combine dry and wet ingredients. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, gently stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing for a tender loaf.
Fold in the chocolate chips. Gently fold in the peppermint chips and semi-sweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Transfer the batter to the pan. Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even bake.
Bake to perfection. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and decorate. Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Drizzle with hot fudge sauce and sprinkle with crushed candy canes for that festive finish.
Tips & Tricks for Festive Peppermint Mocha Bread
To make the most out of your Festive Peppermint Mocha Bread, here are a few chef’s secrets and hacks:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and sour cream are at room temperature for better incorporation into the batter.
- Don’t Overmix: Mixing the batter too much can lead to denser bread. Stir until just combined.
- Peppermint Extract: If you want a stronger peppermint flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the wet ingredients.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking for doneness a few minutes before the suggested time to prevent overbaking.
- Storage: If you want to make this bread ahead of time, it freezes beautifully. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This Festive Peppermint Mocha Bread is as versatile as it is delicious. Here are some creative ideas for making it the star of your table:
- Breakfast Delight: Serve a warm slice with a smear of cream cheese or butter to enhance its richness.
- Dessert Treat: Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to turn this bread into a lavish dessert.
- Festive Brunch: Serve alongside a steaming cup of peppermint hot chocolate or coffee for a cozy brunch gathering.
- Creative Toppings: Experiment with different toppings, such as whipped cream and shaved chocolate for an extra indulgent twist.
- Holiday Gifting: Wrap in festive packaging as a delightful gift for friends and family during the holiday season.
Nutritional Information
While indulging in this Festive Peppermint Mocha Bread, keep in mind that it is a treat meant to bring joy. On average, one slice contains approximately 250 calories, depending on the size of the slice and additional toppings used. For a delightful treat that feels indulgent yet comforting, it’s worth savoring every bite.
Storing Tips & Variations for Festive Peppermint Mocha Bread
To maintain the freshness of your Festive Peppermint Mocha Bread, follow these storage tips:
- Room Temperature: The bread can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This bread freezes well. Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a zip-top bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
- Reheating: For a freshly baked experience, reheat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds or in a toaster oven.
- Healthier Swaps: Consider using whole wheat flour or replacing some sugar with applesauce for a slightly healthier option without compromising flavor.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with adding different chips, such as dark chocolate or butterscotch, or try mixing in chopped nuts for added texture.
Conclusion for Festive Peppermint Mocha Bread
I encourage you to try making this Festive Peppermint Mocha Bread right away! With its enchanting blend of flavors and tempting aroma, it’s bound to become a cherished favorite during the holiday season and beyond. Don’t wait—gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy the heartwarming experience of homemade baking that brings people together.
FAQs
1. Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the bread a day ahead. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze it for longer storage.
2. How can I make the bread healthier?
You can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour and reduce the sugar slightly. Adding applesauce is a great way to retain moisture without adding too much sugar.
3. Can I substitute sour cream with another ingredient?
Yes, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute for sour cream in this recipe, adding a similar creaminess.
4. How long does this bread last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, the bread will last for about 3 days at room temperature or up to 3 months if frozen.
5. What should I do if my bread is too moist?
If the bread is overly moist, it may need a bit more baking time. Ensure to check with a toothpick inserted into the center to see if it comes out clean.
PrintFestive Peppermint Mocha Bread
A delightful treat combining rich chocolate, refreshing peppermint, and the comforting aroma of coffee, perfect for holiday gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 70 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup baking cocoa
- ¼ cup instant coffee granules
- 1¼ cups sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- ⅓ cup melted butter
- 1 cup white chocolate peppermint chips
- ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 4 tbsp hot fudge sauce (optional topping)
- 1 crushed candy cane (optional garnish)
- Non-stick spray for greasing the pan
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with non-stick spray.
- In a medium bowl, combine the dry ingredients: flour, salt, baking soda, sugar, cocoa powder, and coffee granules.
- In a large bowl, mix the sour cream, eggs, and melted butter until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
- Fold in the peppermint chips and semi-sweet chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan, smoothing the top.
- Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Drizzle with hot fudge and sprinkle with crushed candy canes if desired.
Notes
For best results, use room temperature ingredients and avoid overmixing the batter. This bread freezes beautifully.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg






