Chocolate Mint Bread

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Description
Moist, rich chocolate bread infused with the refreshing flavor of mint. Think brownie meets quick bread, with a tender crumb, deep cocoa notes, and the cooling finish of peppermint. It’s like a warm hug for mint chocolate lovers.

Origin
Quick breads like banana and pumpkin originated in American kitchens in the 18th–19th century. This minty chocolate version takes inspiration from classic holiday flavor combos, especially popular during winter months — but delicious all year round.

Ingredients Quantity (makes 1 standard loaf)

1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
¼ cup milk
1 teaspoon peppermint extract
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup semisweet or dark chocolate chips
Optional: ½ cup chopped mint chocolate pieces or Andes mints

Ingredients Optional
Crushed candy canes on top for crunch
Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans
A drizzle of chocolate glaze or ganache
Mini chocolate chips folded into the batter
A touch of espresso powder (½ tsp) to deepen chocolate flavor

Instruction
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well. Stir in sour cream, milk, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract.

Add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips and any optional mix-ins.

Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Let cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Success
Use room temperature ingredients for smooth mixing.
Don’t overmix the batter — just stir until combined.
Use good-quality cocoa powder and real peppermint extract for the best flavor.
Cool completely before slicing for clean cuts.
Add a ganache drizzle or mint glaze for a more dessert-like presentation.

Recommendation
Serve with a cup of hot cocoa, coffee, or peppermint tea. Wrap in parchment and twine for a beautiful homemade gift. Toast a slice and spread with cream cheese or chocolate hazelnut spread for extra decadence.

Nutrition (Per slice, approx. 10 slices)
Calories: 280–320 kcal
Fat: 16–20g
Carbohydrates: 30–35g
Protein: 4–5g
Sugar: 18–22g
Cholesterol: 50–60mg
Sodium: 150–200mg

Want a chocolate mint marble loaf, mint chocolate chip muffin version, or even a gluten-free take on it next? I got you covered!

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