If you’re looking for a rich, comforting bake for the colder months, the Chestnut & Chocolate Swirl Loaf is the perfect choice. Moist, nutty, and beautifully marbled, this loaf makes a fantastic treat for coffee breaks, dessert after dinner, or even as a festive holiday offering. The combination of smooth chestnut purée and decadent dark chocolate creates an irresistible swirl that will impress your guests or add a touch of indulgence to your daily routine. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to warm up your home with a delightful scent, this loaf will not disappoint!
What is Chestnut & Chocolate Swirl Loaf?
The Chestnut & Chocolate Swirl Loaf is a moist, flavorful bread that combines the earthy taste of chestnuts with the rich, smooth flavor of dark chocolate. This recipe is ideal for fall and winter, thanks to the warm, comforting flavors and the visual appeal of the swirled batters. It’s easy to prepare, yet sophisticated enough to serve at dinner parties or family gatherings.
Origin of Chestnut & Chocolate Swirl Loaf
Chestnuts have been a staple in many cuisines for centuries, especially in Europe. Historically, chestnuts were a significant food source in mountainous regions, providing both flavor and sustenance during the colder months. Combining chestnuts with chocolate is a modern twist, likely inspired by the increasing popularity of chestnuts in desserts, especially around the holidays. Chocolate, known for its universal appeal, pairs perfectly with the sweet, nutty flavors of chestnut purée, creating a rich dessert that’s both indulgent and comforting.
Ingredients with Quantity: Swirled Chestnut Chocolate Bread
Before diving into the preparation, let’s gather all the ingredients for this delightful loaf:
Dry Ingredients:
- 1¾ cups (220 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients:
- ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup (120 ml) milk (or half-and-half)
Chestnut Batter:
- ½ cup (120 g) chestnut purée (sweetened or unsweetened, see note)
- 1 tbsp dark rum or 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Chocolate Batter:
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 oz (55 g) melted dark chocolate
- 1 tbsp milk
Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method
1. Preheat & Prep
To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, ensuring some overhang for easy removal once the loaf is baked. This step prevents the loaf from sticking to the pan and makes the final product easier to take out.
2. Mix the Base Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, which should take about 2–3 minutes. This process incorporates air into the butter, creating a light texture for your loaf.
Next, beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Now, gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of the loaf.
3. Divide & Flavor the Batter
Split the batter evenly into two bowls.
For the Chestnut Batter:
Stir in the chestnut purée and, if using, the dark rum or an extra teaspoon of vanilla extract for added depth of flavor.
For the Chocolate Batter:
In the second bowl, mix in the cocoa powder, melted dark chocolate, and milk. Stir until smooth and well combined, making sure there are no lumps of cocoa powder.
4. Create the Swirl
To create the signature swirl effect, spoon alternating dollops of the chestnut and chocolate batters into the prepared loaf pan. Use a butter knife or skewer to gently swirl through the batters, creating a marbled effect. You don’t need to overdo it—just a few gentle figure-eight motions will do the trick!
5. Bake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45–55 minutes. The loaf is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Oven times may vary slightly, so be sure to check toward the end of the baking time.
Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then carefully lift it out using the parchment paper and place it on a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Serve
Once the loaf has cooled, you can dust it with a light coating of powdered sugar or drizzle it with melted chocolate for an extra touch of indulgence. Serve it slightly warm or at room temperature for the best flavor.
Variations: Chestnut & Chocolate Swirl Loaf
While the Chestnut & Chocolate Swirl Loaf is already delicious, here are some variations you can try:
- Chestnut Spread: If you prefer a sweeter loaf, substitute the chestnut purée with chestnut spread (crème de marrons). This will make the loaf richer and sweeter. If you use chestnut spread, reduce the sugar in the base batter to ½ cup to balance the sweetness.
- Add Nuts: For an extra texture boost, consider adding chopped roasted chestnuts or hazelnuts to the chestnut batter. About ½ cup of chopped nuts will add a lovely crunch and extra flavor.
- Gluten-Free Version: If you need a gluten-free version of this loaf, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You may also need to add a bit of xanthan gum, depending on the brand of gluten-free flour you use.
- Add Spices: For a spiced version, add 1 tsp of cinnamon or 1 tsp of nutmeg to the dry ingredients to give the loaf a warm, festive flavor that complements the chestnut and chocolate perfectly.
- Larger Batch: If you’re hosting a big event, double the recipe to make two loaves or bake it in a larger pan. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.
FAQs About Chestnut & Chocolate Swirl Loaf
1. Can I use sweetened chestnut purée instead of unsweetened?
Yes, if you use sweetened chestnut purée, you can skip the extra sugar in the chestnut batter. The loaf will have a slightly sweeter taste.
2. How do I store the Chestnut & Chocolate Swirl Loaf?
Once cooled, you can wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 2 months. Just be sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.
3. Can I make this loaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! This loaf actually tastes better the next day once the flavors have had time to meld together. Make it a day in advance and store it tightly covered for the best result.
4. Can I use milk alternatives?
Yes, you can substitute regular milk with a non-dairy milk such as almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. Just ensure that it’s unflavored and unsweetened to keep the loaf’s flavor profile intact.
5. What can I serve this loaf with?
This loaf pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee, tea, or even hot chocolate. It also makes a perfect addition to a holiday dessert table, or you can serve it as a sweet snack with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Conclusion: Chestnut & Chocolate Swirl Loaf
The Chestnut & Chocolate Swirl Loaf is a delightful dessert that offers the perfect balance of rich chocolate and sweet, nutty chestnut flavors. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy winter afternoon or a festive holiday gathering, this loaf will surely impress. With its tender crumb, beautiful marble swirl, and versatility in variations, it’s a recipe that’s worth making again and again. The combination of chestnut and chocolate is not only delicious but also creates a warm, comforting treat that’s perfect for the colder months. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the process of baking this delightful loaf that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Print
Chestnut & Chocolate Swirl Loaf: A Cozy, Elegant Fall and Winter Dessert
- Total Time: 1 hr 15 mins
- Yield: 10 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
The Chestnut & Chocolate Swirl Loaf is a moist, flavorful bread that combines the earthy taste of chestnuts with the rich, smooth flavor of dark chocolate. This recipe is ideal for fall and winter, thanks to the warm, comforting flavors and the visual appeal of the swirled batters. It’s easy to prepare, yet sophisticated enough to serve at dinner parties or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
1¾ cups (220 g) all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
¼ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
½ cup (120 ml) milk (or half-and-half)
Chestnut Batter
½ cup (120 g) chestnut purée (sweetened or unsweetened, see note)
1 tbsp dark rum or 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Chocolate Batter
2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
2 oz (55 g) melted dark chocolate
1 tbsp milk
Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. Mix the Base Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla.
Alternately mix in the dry ingredients and milk, beginning and ending with dry.
(Mix just until combined — don’t overbeat.)
3. Divide & Flavor
Split the batter evenly into two bowls.
For the chestnut batter: Stir in chestnut purée and rum or extra vanilla.
For the chocolate batter: Stir in cocoa, melted chocolate, and milk until smooth.
4. Create the Swirl
Spoon alternating dollops of each batter into the loaf pan (like a checkerboard pattern).
Use a butter knife or skewer to gently swirl through the batters — just a few figure-eights to marble it.
5. Bake
Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then lift out and cool completely on a wire rack.
6. Serve
Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate.
Delicious slightly warm or at room temperature.
Notes
For extra indulgence, brush the warm loaf with a little melted butter and dust with cocoa powder or powdered sugar. It’s delicious served slightly warm with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate!
- Prep Time: 25 mins
- Cook Time: 50 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: Chestnut & Chocolate Swirl Loaf
