Tired of choosing between brownies and bread for your dessert table? That impossible decision ends today! As a dedicated baker who’s tested hundreds of holiday recipes, I’ve perfected this Peppermint Brownie Bread that combines the fudgy decadence of brownies with the comforting slice-ability of a quick bread.
Hi, I’m Emma, the heart behind GusRecipes, and this Peppermint Brownie Bread is my holiday gift to you. It all started three winters ago when I was experimenting with holiday flavors and had a chocolate epiphany – why not transform my favorite brownie recipe into a beautiful loaf that could be sliced, gifted, and savored with a cup of hot cocoa?
In this recipe guide, you’ll discover my secrets for achieving that perfect balance of dense chocolatey texture and refreshing peppermint, plus tips for ingredient selection, step-by-step instructions, and creative serving ideas that will make this your new holiday tradition.
Why This Peppermint Brownie Bread Recipe Works
● Uses pantry-friendly ingredients you likely already have on hand
● Combines two beloved desserts in one stunning loaf
● Perfect make-ahead option for holiday gatherings or gifting
● Rich chocolate flavor balanced with refreshing peppermint
● Stays moist for days (if it lasts that long!)
Choosing the Right Ingredients for Peppermint Brownie Bread
Best Chocolate for Brownie Bread
The foundation of this peppermint brownie bread is high-quality chocolate. Opt for 70% dark chocolate for that deep, rich flavor that contrasts beautifully with the peppermint. Semi-sweet chocolate chips work wonderfully for the add-ins, creating pockets of melty goodness throughout your loaf.
Peppermint Extract Selection
Not all peppermint extracts are created equal! Look for pure peppermint extract rather than imitation flavoring. The difference in taste is remarkable – pure extract offers a clean, bright mint flavor without any artificial aftertaste.
Flour Considerations
All-purpose flour gives this brownie bread structure while keeping it tender. For a slightly chewier texture similar to traditional brownies, you can substitute up to 1/4 cup of the flour with bread flour.
Ingredients & Prep for Peppermint Brownie Bread
Brownie Bread Base Essentials
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Peppermint Topping Options
- Crushed candy canes
- White chocolate drizzle
- Powdered sugar dusting
Pantry Staples Needed
Baking powder, salt, and a touch of espresso powder (optional but recommended to enhance the chocolate flavor).
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Peppermint Brownie Bread
Pre-Baking Prep for Brownie Bread
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- Melt butter in a microwave-safe bowl and let cool slightly.
- Sift together dry ingredients (flour, cocoa powder, salt) to prevent lumps.
Mixing Method for Perfect Brownie Bread
- In a large bowl, whisk melted butter and sugar until well combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla and peppermint extracts.
- Gently fold in the dry ingredients, being careful not to overmix.
- Fold in chocolate chips and half of your crushed candy canes if using.
Baking Your Peppermint Brownie Bread
- Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Sprinkle remaining crushed candy canes over the top if desired.
- Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- The center should be set but still slightly fudgy.
Cooling and Setting Your Brownie Bread
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This crucial step prevents the loaf from becoming too dense and helps the flavors develop. For the fudgiest texture, refrigerate the completely cooled bread for 1-2 hours before slicing.
Pro Tips for Perfect Peppermint Brownie Bread
Avoiding Dry Brownie Bread
- Don’t overbake! The loaf will continue cooking slightly as it cools
- Check for doneness at the minimum baking time
- Adding 1 tablespoon of neutral oil to the batter helps maintain moisture
Tool Recommendations for Brownie Bread Success
- Light-colored aluminum loaf pan for even heating
- Parchment paper sling for easy removal
- Digital thermometer (190°F indicates perfect doneness)
Storage & Serving Guidelines
- Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Refrigerate for up to a week for a fudgier texture
- Freeze individual slices for up to 3 months, thaw at room temperature
Looking for more holiday baking inspiration? Check out my Pinterest board for dozens of festive recipes that will make your season bright! Follow me on Pinterest for new recipes weekly!
Flavor Variations for Peppermint Brownie Bread
Double Chocolate Version
Add an extra 1/4 cup of cocoa powder and replace semi-sweet chips with dark chocolate chunks for an intensely chocolatey experience.
White Chocolate Peppermint Twist
Substitute half the chocolate chips with white chocolate chips and add a white chocolate ganache drizzle on top.
Holiday Spice Infusion
Add 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg to create a warming spice profile alongside the peppermint.
| Variation | Key Ingredients | Baking Adjustment | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fudgy | Extra egg yolk, less flour | Reduce bake time by 5 min | Chocolate lovers |
| Cakey | Extra flour, baking powder | Standard bake time | Traditional bread texture |
| Gluten-free | 1:1 GF flour blend | Add 5 min bake time | Dietary restrictions |
| Extra-minty | Double peppermint extract | No change | Mint enthusiasts |
Serving Suggestions for Peppermint Brownie Bread
This peppermint brownie bread is delicious on its own, but becomes a showstopping dessert when:
- Warmed slightly and topped with vanilla ice cream
- Served alongside hot chocolate with whipped cream
- Cut into cubes and used in a holiday trifle
- Drizzled with warm chocolate sauce or peppermint ganache
For a festive holiday brunch, toast slices lightly and spread with a thin layer of mascarpone cheese mixed with a touch of powdered sugar.
FAQs About Peppermint Brownie Bread
Can I make this brownie bread ahead of time?
Yes! This bread actually improves after a day as the flavors meld. Make it up to 2 days in advance and store in an airtight container at room temperature.
How do I know when my brownie bread is perfectly baked?
The center should be set but not completely dry. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter. The internal temperature should reach about 190°F.
Can I make this without peppermint for a traditional chocolate brownie bread?
Absolutely! Simply omit the peppermint extract and candy canes, and increase the vanilla extract to 1½ teaspoons.
My brownie bread sank in the middle. What happened?
This typically happens when the bread is underbaked or the oven temperature was too high. Make sure your oven is properly calibrated and the loaf is fully baked before removing.
Conclusion
This Peppermint Brownie Bread brings together the best of two beloved desserts in one festive, sliceable treat. The rich chocolate base studded with mint delivers that perfect holiday flavor combination that’ll have everyone asking for the recipe.
Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering, gifting to neighbors, or enjoying a slice with your evening tea, this brownie bread creates those memorable moments that make the season special.
Give this recipe a try and join the thousands of home bakers who have made this a holiday tradition in their homes! Your kitchen will smell amazing, and your taste buds will thank you. Happy baking!
Print
Peppermint Brownie Bread: Decadent Dessert Magic in One Loaf!
- Total Time: 50 mins
- Yield: 1 loaf (8 slices) 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Rich, fudgy brownie bread infused with peppermint flavor and topped with crushed candy canes a festive twist on classic brownies that’s perfect for the holidays.
Ingredients
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp peppermint extract
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1/4 cup crushed candy canes (plus more for topping)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and sugar until glossy.
3. Add eggs and peppermint extract, whisking until smooth.
4. Sift in flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chocolate chips and 1/4 cup crushed candy canes.
6. Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
8. Cool completely in the pan before slicing.
9. Sprinkle with extra crushed candy canes before serving for a festive touch.
Notes
Drizzle cooled bread with melted white chocolate for extra sweetness.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Add espresso powder for a deeper chocolate flavor and less sweetness.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 40 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: peppermint brownie bread, chocolate mint loaf, holiday dessert, brownie loaf cake, Christmas baking