Name: Peppermint Mocha Bread: Holiday Comfort in Every Slice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Substitute with gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version.); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (Ensure it's fresh for optimal performance.); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Enhances flavor.); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Can be reduced or replaced with a sugar alternative.); 1/2 cup Baking Cocoa (Use Dutch-process cocoa for a deeper taste.); 1 tablespoon Instant Coffee Granules (Omit if you prefer caffeine-free.); 1/2 cup Sour Cream (Plain yogurt is a substitute.); 2 large Eggs (Use room temperature for best results.); 1/2 cup Butter (Melted) (Coconut oil works for a dairy-free option.); 1/2 cup White Chocolate Peppermint Baking Chips (Semi-sweet can be used if preferred.); 1/2 cup Chocolate Chips (Choose dark or milk chocolate.); 1/4 cup Crushed Peppermint (Sprinkled on top for a festive touch.)

As the aroma of freshly baked bread mingles with the crisp winter air, I can’t help but feel the warmth of the holidays wrapping around me. This Peppermint Mocha Bread blends the cozy flavors of rich cocoa and sweet peppermint, making it an irresistible addition to your festive table. Ready in under an hour, it’s a quick and easy recipe that’s not just a treat for the taste buds but also a visual delight, embellished with crushed peppermint on top. Perfect for holiday gatherings, this moist and fluffy loaf is ideal for sharing with friends and family, making it an instant crowd-pleaser. Curious to discover how you can elevate your baking this season? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is Peppermint Mocha Bread a Must-Try?

Festive Flavor Fusion: This Peppermint Mocha Bread is the perfect blend of rich cocoa, uplifting coffee, and refreshing peppermint, celebrating the holiday spirit in every slice.

Quick to Make: With just under an hour of prep and baking time, you can whip this delightful treat up effortlessly, which is fantastic for busy holiday schedules.

Shareable Delight: Its fluffy texture and beautiful crushed peppermint topping make it not only delicious but also a showstopper at your holiday gatherings.

Customizable for All: Whether you add chocolate chips for extra indulgence or nuts for a delightful crunch, it’s easy to tailor this recipe to your taste—check out options for Cheesy Garlic Bread or elevate with a swirl of cream cheese frosting!

Moist and Fluffy: Every bite offers a tender crumb that melts in your mouth, ensuring you’ll be going back for seconds (and maybe thirds!).

Don’t miss out on this festive favorite—it’s bound to become a holiday tradition!

Peppermint Mocha Bread Ingredients

• Get ready to bake with these essentials!

For the Bread

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; substitute with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version.
Baking Soda – Helps the bread rise; ensure it’s fresh for optimal performance.
Salt – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness; can be reduced or replaced with a sugar alternative if desired.
Baking Cocoa – Offers a rich chocolate flavor; use Dutch-process cocoa for a deeper taste.
Instant Coffee Granules – Intensifies the mocha flavor; omit if you prefer caffeine-free.
Sour Cream – Adds moisture and richness; plain yogurt is a good substitute.
Eggs – Binds ingredients together and adds moisture; use room temperature eggs for the best results.
Butter (Melted) – Contributes flavor and moisture; coconut oil works for a dairy-free option.

For the Toppings

White Chocolate Peppermint Baking Chips – Provides that sweet peppermint flavor; semi-sweet chips can be used if preferred.
Chocolate Chips – Enhance the rich chocolate experience; choose dark or milk chocolate based on your taste.
Crushed Peppermint – Sprinkled on top for a festive touch; elevates the visual appeal of your bread.

No holiday gathering is complete without this Peppermint Mocha Bread—let’s get baking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peppermint Mocha Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by spraying it with non-stick spray or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal later. This ensures your Peppermint Mocha Bread bakes evenly and comes out effortlessly.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, granulated sugar, and baking cocoa until well combined. This step is essential for evenly distributing the leavening agents throughout, which helps your bread rise beautifully as it bakes. Set this bowl aside and allow the dry ingredients to rest for a moment.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a stand mixer bowl, combine the sour cream, room temperature eggs, and melted butter. Mix on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated, around 2-3 minutes. This wet mixture will add moisture and richness to your Peppermint Mocha Bread, ensuring a delightfully fluffy outcome.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the bowl of dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a denser bread. You want your batter to be thick and slightly lumpy—this is the perfect consistency for a moist loaf.

Step 5: Fold in the Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the white chocolate peppermint baking chips and chocolate chips using a spatula. This step adds a fun burst of flavor and texture to your Peppermint Mocha Bread. Ensure it’s evenly distributed throughout the batter for delightful surprises in every bite.

Step 6: Pour into the Loaf Pan
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with the spatula for an even bake. Before placing it in the oven, sprinkle crushed peppermint over the top, which not only enhances the festive look but also adds an extra layer of peppermint flavor to the bread.

Step 7: Bake the Bread
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-55 minutes. Keep an eye on it towards the end; the bread is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The top should look set and slightly cracked, indicating it’s ready to come out.

Step 8: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, allow the Peppermint Mocha Bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After that, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling period is vital for ensuring the bread sets properly and prevents it from becoming soggy.

Step 9: Optional Fudge Drizzle
For a decadent finish, consider drizzling warm fudge sauce over the cooled Peppermint Mocha Bread just before serving. This step is completely optional but adds a delightful touch that pairs beautifully with the chocolate and peppermint flavors, making each slice even more irresistible.

How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Mocha Bread

Room Temperature: Keep your Peppermint Mocha Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to retain its moisture and freshness.

Fridge: If you want to extend its life, refrigerate the bread in an airtight container for up to a week, though it may slightly alter the texture.

Freezer: For long-term storage, wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for the best results.

Reheating: To enjoy warm slices, gently reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in an oven set at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Peppermint Mocha Bread in advance is a fantastic way to save time during the busy holiday season! You can mix the dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, salt, sugar, and cocoa) and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can combine the wet ingredients (sour cream, eggs, and melted butter) and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply bring the wet mixture to room temperature and combine it with the dry ingredients. This not only retains the bread’s freshness and flavor but also ensures it bakes up just as deliciously as if made fresh that day! Enjoy the time-saving benefits without compromising on taste!

What to Serve with Peppermint Mocha Bread?

As the enchanting aroma of peppermint and mocha fills your kitchen, imagine the delightful pairings that will elevate your festive gatherings.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture and buttery flavor of mashed potatoes create a comforting contrast to the sweet bread.
Rich Hot Chocolate: Serve this alongside a steaming cup of hot chocolate for a cozy drink that echoes the chocolate in the bread.
Fruity Cranberry Sauce: A tart-sweet cranberry sauce adds a refreshing burst that balances the rich flavors of the Peppermint Mocha Bread.
Gingerbread Cookies: Embrace the festive spirit with gingerbread cookies, bringing spice and warmth to your dessert table.
Fresh Berries: A side of fresh strawberries or raspberries brightens the palate, providing a fruity counterpoint to the rich chocolate and peppermint.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melting over warm slices creates a luscious contrast, enhancing the chocolate notes.
Festive Spiced Tea: Complement your bread with a cup of warming spiced tea, helping to heighten the cozy holiday vibe.
Chocolate Fudge Brownies: For the ultimate indulgence, serve decadent brownies that echo the chocolate flavor of the Peppermint Mocha Bread.

These pairings not only bring delightful flavors but also create a warm and inviting atmosphere for your holiday celebrations!

Peppermint Mocha Bread Variations

Feel free to get creative and tailor this delightful bread to your tastes with these fun variations!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a deliciously inclusive option.
Nutty Crunch: Add 1/2 cup of crushed walnuts or pecans for a hearty texture that complements the sweetness perfectly. The nutty flavor can elevate each bite, making it even more satisfying.
Caramel Twist: Swap the peppermint chips for caramel chips to give the bread a warm, gooey surprise. This twist turns the traditional flavor profile into a rich caramel dream.
Spiced Delight: Add 1 tsp of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a cozy, spiced aroma that intertwines beautifully with the peppermint and mocha flavors!
Frosted Indulgence: Top with a swirl of cream cheese frosting once cooled for a decadent dessert-like experience. Creamy frosting against the minty sweetness is truly irresistible.
Extra Chocolate: For chocolate lovers, consider folding in 1/2 cup of dark chocolate chunks along with the other chips. The melty chocolate adds a heavenly touch to every slice.
Peppermint Extract Boost: Enhance the peppermint flavor by adding 1 tsp of peppermint extract to the wet mixture. This will intensify the festive vibes and have your taste buds dancing!
Serve with a Duo: Pair this bread with a hot cup of coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an indulgent treat that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones. Enjoy the warm, comforting experience that brings everyone together.

Explore more tempting pairing ideas to create the perfect festive atmosphere, just like our comforting Cheesy Breadsticks Philly or delight in the classic flavors of Cheesy Garlic Bread. Each adds a special component to your holiday gathering!

Expert Tips for Peppermint Mocha Bread

Mix Lightly: Avoid Dense Bread: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix only until just combined to ensure a light and fluffy texture.
Fresh Ingredients Matter: Optimal Rising: Always check that your baking soda is fresh to achieve the best rise in your Peppermint Mocha Bread.
Temperature Tip: Room Temperature Eggs: Using eggs that are at room temperature helps create a smoother batter and contributes to even baking.
Add Fun Textures: Customize Your Bread: Consider adding crushed nuts or additional chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture variations in your Peppermint Mocha Bread.
Cool Completely: Perfect Slicing: Allow the bread to cool fully on a wire rack before slicing to ensure clean edges and prevent a gummy texture.

Peppermint Mocha Bread Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right ingredients for my Peppermint Mocha Bread?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose high-quality cocoa powder, such as Dutch-process, for a richer taste. Ensure your baking soda is fresh, as using expired ingredients can affect the rise. When selecting peppermint baking chips, opt for those labeled “white chocolate” to get the sweet peppermint flavor the recipe calls for.

What’s the best way to store Peppermint Mocha Bread?
You can store your Peppermint Mocha Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate it for up to a week. However, this might slightly change the texture, so I often suggest using the room temperature method for the best results.

Can I freeze Peppermint Mocha Bread, and how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Peppermint Mocha Bread, allow it to cool completely first. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and let it come to room temperature before slicing or reheating.

What should I do if my bread turns out dense?
If your Peppermint Mocha Bread is dense, it’s often due to overmixing the batter, which can develop gluten and make the texture heavy. I recommend mixing just until the dry and wet ingredients are combined. Also, make sure your baking soda is fresh—old leavening agents won’t give the rise you need!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Very! If anyone in your family is gluten-sensitive, you can make a gluten-free version using a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, if using butter is not an option, swap it with coconut oil for a dairy-free bread. Always check for allergies related to chocolate or any flavoring agents included.

How can I make my Peppermint Mocha Bread more festive?
For an extra special touch, you can add crushed nuts like walnuts for a delightful crunch or drizzle some warm fudge sauce over the top before serving. I also love to sprinkle a touch of powdered sugar on top for a snow-like finish—perfect for the holidays!