When it comes to the holidays, few things are as delightful as the sweet aromas of freshly baked treats filling your home. The Christmas Peppermint Bark Swirl Bread is the epitome of festive indulgence, offering a soft, rich loaf swirled with decadent layers of chocolate and crushed candy canes. Imagine peppermint bark, but in the form of a beautiful holiday bread. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or gifting, this recipe will undoubtedly be a hit during the holiday season.
In this article, we will walk you through the process of making this festive masterpiece, from gathering the ingredients to assembling the loaf and adding the final touches. We will also provide tips and variations, along with answers to frequently asked questions to ensure that your baking experience is as smooth as the bread itself.
What is Christmas Peppermint Bark Swirl Bread?
Christmas Peppermint Bark Swirl Bread is a soft, yeasted bread that is filled with a chocolate and peppermint mixture, reminiscent of the beloved holiday treat—peppermint bark. This holiday loaf is beautifully swirled with a rich chocolate filling and topped with crushed candy canes, making it a festive showstopper perfect for holiday gatherings. With a tender crumb and a subtle hint of peppermint, each bite is a comforting reminder of the joys of the season.
The magic of this bread lies not only in the delicious combination of chocolate and peppermint but also in the artistic swirl pattern that makes it so visually appealing. The layers of chocolate, coupled with the crunchy candy cane topping, give the bread a festive flair that is sure to impress your guests or make a thoughtful gift for friends and family.
Origin of Christmas Peppermint Bark Swirl Bread
Peppermint bark is a classic holiday treat, combining chocolate and peppermint in a simple yet delightful way. The concept of peppermint bark originated in the 19th century, but it became especially popular in the United States in the 20th century, often served during the winter holidays. The Christmas Peppermint Bark Swirl Bread draws inspiration from this beloved treat, transforming it into a sweet, yeasted bread perfect for the holiday season.
While there are no definitive historical records of the first peppermint bark swirl bread recipe, it is believed that home bakers began experimenting with incorporating peppermint bark into bread and pastries as the popularity of peppermint-flavored desserts grew. The swirling technique is a classic method used in many bread recipes, such as babka and cinnamon rolls, which makes it a perfect technique for this festive creation.
Ingredients for Christmas Peppermint Bark Swirl Bread
To make this delightful Christmas Peppermint Bark Swirl Bread, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Bread Dough
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2¼ tsp) instant yeast
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate-Peppermint Filling
- 4 ounces semisweet or dark chocolate, chopped (or chips)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract
- ¼ cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
For Topping (optional but festive!)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (to brush before baking)
- Extra crushed candy canes or chocolate drizzle after baking
Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparing Christmas Peppermint Bark Swirl Bread
Follow these easy-to-follow instructions to create your own Christmas Peppermint Bark Swirl Bread:
1. Prepare the Dough
Start by combining the dry ingredients—flour, sugar, yeast, and salt—in a large bowl (or mixer bowl). Then, add the warm milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until a dough begins to form. Knead the dough for about 8–10 minutes either by hand or using a mixer, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
Next, place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1½ hours, or until the dough has doubled in size. This step is crucial for developing the soft, airy texture of the bread.
2. Make the Chocolate-Peppermint Filling
While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate and butter together until smooth and creamy. Stir in the cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and peppermint extract. Let the mixture cool slightly so that it becomes spreadable rather than runny.
Once your filling is ready, set it aside while the dough finishes rising.
3. Assemble the Swirl
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air pockets. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and roll it out into a 12×16-inch rectangle. Spread the chocolate-peppermint filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
Sprinkle crushed candy canes generously over the filling. Carefully roll the dough into a tight log, starting from the long side. Once rolled, slice the log in half lengthwise (similar to the method used for babka), exposing the beautiful swirls inside.
Next, twist the two halves of the dough together, making sure to keep the cut sides facing up so that the swirls are visible. The twist adds a beautiful and festive touch to the bread.
4. Second Rise
Place the twisted loaf into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Alternatively, you can shape the dough into a wreath on a parchment-lined baking sheet for an even more impressive presentation. Cover the dough loosely and allow it to rise for another 30–40 minutes, or until it becomes puffy.
5. Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the top of the loaf with melted butter to give it a golden, glossy finish as it bakes. Bake the bread for about 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the bread is fully cooked through. The internal temperature should be around 190°F when done.
If the bread starts browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with foil for the remainder of the baking time.
6. Cool & Decorate
Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Drizzle the top with melted white or dark chocolate and sprinkle additional crushed candy canes over the top for that extra festive touch.
Tips and Variations for Christmas Peppermint Bark Swirl Bread
If you’re looking to make this recipe even more delightful, here are some tips and variations to consider:
- Shortcut: For a quicker version of this bread, use store-bought pizza dough or sweet bread dough. This will save time while still giving you a delicious result.
- Extra Flavor: Add a handful of mini chocolate chips or white chocolate chunks to the filling for an even richer chocolate experience.
- Fancy Presentation: To make the bread even more impressive, shape it into a braided wreath before baking and dust it with powdered sugar to create a snowy effect.
The bread keeps well wrapped at room temperature for 2–3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, so you can make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the holiday season.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough the night before and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. The next day, let it come to room temperature before assembling and baking.
Can I freeze Christmas Peppermint Bark Swirl Bread?
Yes, you can freeze the bread after baking. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. To reheat, simply thaw it at room temperature and warm it in the oven before serving.
Can I use white chocolate for the filling?
Absolutely! You can use white chocolate instead of dark or semisweet chocolate for a sweeter, creamier filling.
What can I use instead of candy canes?
If you’re not a fan of candy canes, you can use crushed peppermint candies or even a peppermint-flavored chocolate bar for the filling.
Conclusion: A Holiday Favorite for Years to Come
The Christmas Peppermint Bark Swirl Bread is an enchanting holiday treat that combines the best elements of peppermint bark with the comfort of a soft, yeasted bread. With its festive appearance and delightful flavor, this bread is sure to become a staple in your holiday baking repertoire. Whether you’re making it for breakfast, dessert, or as a thoughtful gift, this showstopper will not disappoint.
Now that you have all the steps and tips to create your own festive loaf, it’s time to get baking and spread the holiday cheer with this delicious, peppermint-infused treat. Happy holidays and happy baking!
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Christmas Peppermint Bark Swirl Bread: A Festive Showstopper for the Holidays
- Total Time: 55–60 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Christmas Peppermint Bark Swirl Bread is a soft, yeasted bread that is filled with a chocolate and peppermint mixture, reminiscent of the beloved holiday treat—peppermint bark. This holiday loaf is beautifully swirled with a rich chocolate filling and topped with crushed candy canes, making it a festive showstopper perfect for holiday gatherings. With a tender crumb and a subtle hint of peppermint, each bite is a comforting reminder of the joys of the season.
Ingredients
For the Bread Dough
3 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 packet (2¼ tsp) instant yeast
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
1 large egg
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate-Peppermint Filling
4 ounces semisweet or dark chocolate, chopped (or chips)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon cocoa powder
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
¼ teaspoon peppermint extract
¼ cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
For Topping (optional but festive!)
1 tablespoon melted butter (to brush before baking)
Extra crushed candy canes or chocolate drizzle after baking
Instructions
1. Prepare the dough:
In a large bowl (or mixer bowl), combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
Add warm milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla.
Mix until dough begins to come together, then knead for 8–10 minutes (by hand or mixer) until smooth and elastic.
Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.
2. Make the filling:
In a small saucepan or microwave, melt chocolate and butter together until smooth.
Stir in cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and peppermint extract.
Let cool slightly so it’s spreadable, not runny.
3. Assemble the swirl:
Punch down risen dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a 12×16-inch rectangle.
Spread the chocolate-peppermint filling evenly over the dough.
Sprinkle crushed candy canes across the surface.
Roll tightly from the long side into a log.
Slice the log in half lengthwise (like a babka), exposing the swirls.
Twist the two halves together, keeping the cut sides facing up.
4. Second rise:
Carefully place the twisted loaf into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan (or shape into a wreath on parchment for a showy presentation).
Cover loosely and let rise again for 30–40 minutes, until puffy.
5. Bake:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Brush the top lightly with melted butter.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until golden and cooked through (internal temp ~190°F).
If it browns too quickly, tent with foil halfway through baking.
6. Cool & decorate:
Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Drizzle with melted white or dark chocolate and sprinkle more crushed candy canes on top for a festive finish.
Notes
This festive bread is a holiday favorite with its chocolate and peppermint swirls. Serve warm for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet treat with hot cocoa!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
- Category: Dessert / Snack / Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 310 kcal
Keywords: Peppermint Bark Bread, Christmas Swirl Bread, Peppermint Chocolate Bread, Holiday Swirl Bread, Festive Bread Recipe
