Name: Irresistible Chocolate Peppermint Loaf with Candy Cane Icing
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 2 cups gluten-free flour (all-purpose blend); 1 teaspoon baking powder (gluten-free); 1 teaspoon baking soda (skip if using self-rising flour); 3/4 cup cacao powder (or cocoa powder); 1 cup coconut sugar (or brown sugar); 3 large free-range eggs (or flax eggs); 1 cup plain pumpkin puree (or unsweetened applesauce); 1 teaspoon organic peppermint extract (or peppermint oil); 1/2 cup olive oil (or melted coconut oil); 1 teaspoon vanilla powder (or vanilla extract); 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (or kosher salt); 1/2 cup coconut butter (or vegan butter); 1 teaspoon vanilla powder (or vanilla extract); 1/4 cup cold unsweetened coconut or almond milk (any plant milk); 1 cup cups coconut icing sugar (or homemade); 1/2 cup crushed organic peppermint candy canes (or crushed chocolate)

As I stood in my kitchen, the unmistakable aroma of rich chocolate filled the air, mingling with a hint of refreshing peppermint. It was time to whip up my favorite festive treat: a gluten-free Chocolate Peppermint Loaf with Candy Cane Vanilla Icing. This loaf isn’t just a dessert; it’s a comforting hug on a plate, perfect for cozy gatherings or simple afternoons at home. Its moist texture and creamy icing, adorned with a sprinkle of crushed candy canes, make it an instant crowd-pleaser and an irresistible indulgence. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to bring a little holiday cheer to your table without any gluten, making it accessible for everyone. Are you ready to impress your loved ones with this delightful recipe? Let’s dive into baking!

Why Choose Chocolate Peppermint Loaf?

Deliciously Unique: This gluten-free Chocolate Peppermint Loaf is a standout dessert, combining the richness of chocolate with the refreshing zing of peppermint—perfect for any occasion!

Festive Appeal: Topped with creamy Candy Cane Vanilla Icing, this loaf is all about holiday cheer and makes a splendid centerpiece for gatherings.

Moist and Tender: Thanks to the pumpkin puree, each slice is incredibly moist, making it practically melt in your mouth.

Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps, you’ll have this delightful treat ready with minimal hassle—ideal for busy schedules.

Versatile Recipe: Have fun swapping out ingredients: use applesauce for moisture or dark chocolate for a richer taste, just like in our Brown Butter Chocolate recipes!

Crowd-Pleasing Favorite: Whether shared at a party or savored at home, it’s bound to leave delicious impressions and satisfied smiles!

Chocolate Peppermint Loaf Ingredients

Indulge in the festive fun with these ingredients!

For the Loaf

Gluten-free Flour – Forms the loaf’s structure; an all-purpose blend works wonders.
Baking Powder – Essential for leavening; ensure it’s gluten-free for best results.
Baking Soda – Aiding the loaf’s rise; skip if using self-rising flour.
Cacao Powder – Provides that rich chocolate flavor; cocoa powder will do in a pinch.
Coconut Sugar – Adds a subtle caramel sweetness; feel free to swap with brown sugar.
Free-range Eggs – Bind the ingredients together; flax eggs are a great plant-based option.
Plain Pumpkin Puree – Boosts moisture and sweetness; unsweetened applesauce makes a nice substitute.
Organic Peppermint Extract – Infuses sweet peppermint notes; consider peppermint oil for a powerful punch.
Olive Oil – Keeps the loaf moist; melted coconut oil can be used for a similar effect.
Vanilla Powder – Deepens flavor; vanilla extract can replace it at a 1:1 ratio.
Sea Salt – Balances the sweetness, enhancing all flavors; kosher salt is an excellent alternative.

For the Icing

Coconut Butter – Creates a creamy icing base; vegan butter is a fine substitute if needed.
Cold Unsweetened Coconut or Almond Milk – Thins the icing; any plant milk will work beautifully.
Coconut Icing Sugar – Sweetens and thickens; consider making your own by blending coconut sugar.

For the Topping

Crushed Organic Peppermint Candy Canes – Adds a festive crunch and bright flavor; crushed chocolate can be a tasty alternative.

Get ready to create this heartwarming Chocolate Peppermint Loaf with Candy Cane Vanilla Icing — your loved ones will be craving it!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Peppermint Loaf with Candy Cane Vanilla Icing

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, grease a standard loaf pan with a bit of coconut oil to ensure your delightful Chocolate Peppermint Loaf slides out effortlessly after baking. Set the pan aside, ready for that luscious batter!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, cacao powder, baking powder, baking soda, sea salt, vanilla powder, and coconut sugar. This combination creates a rich foundation for your loaf; make sure to break up any lumps until you have a smooth, uniform mixture that is invitingly aromatic.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk the free-range eggs, plain pumpkin puree, organic peppermint extract, and olive oil until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This blend not only adds moisture but infuses the Chocolate Peppermint Loaf with delightful peppermint flavor—perfect for this festive treat.

Step 4: Blend Wet and Dry
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring gently until combined. Be careful not to overmix; just fold until there are no visible dry spots. The batter will be thick and rich, promising a moist and tender loaf once baked.

Step 5: Bake the Loaf
Transfer the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in your preheated oven for 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The loaf should rise beautifully and develop a fragrant chocolatey aroma that fills your kitchen.

Step 6: Cool the Loaf
Once baked, remove the Chocolate Peppermint Loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial; allowing the loaf to cool ensures your icing won’t melt off when you’re ready to decorate!

Step 7: Prepare the Icing
While the loaf cools, prepare the Candy Cane Vanilla Icing. In a mixing bowl, blend coconut butter, vanilla powder, and cold unsweetened coconut or almond milk until smooth and creamy. This icing will complement your loaf with its delightful sweetness and creamy texture.

Step 8: Sweeten the Icing
Gradually incorporate the coconut icing sugar into your icing mixture until you reach your desired sweetness and thickness. It should be pourable yet hold its shape on top of your Chocolate Peppermint Loaf, creating a beautifully enticing finish.

Step 9: Decorate and Serve
Once the loaf is completely cool, generously ice the top with your Candy Cane Vanilla Icing. For a festive touch, sprinkle crushed organic peppermint candy canes on top, adding a delightful crunch and holiday flair. Your irresistible Chocolate Peppermint Loaf with Candy Cane Icing is now ready to be enjoyed!

How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Peppermint Loaf

Room Temperature: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, ensuring it stays moist and delicious.

Fridge: To extend the life of your Chocolate Peppermint Loaf, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 1 week. This helps retain freshness without compromising flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating: To enjoy your loaf warm, slice and microwave for 10-15 seconds or pop it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes until heated through.

Variations & Substitutions for Chocolate Peppermint Loaf

Feel free to play around with this delightful recipe and make it your own—your taste buds will thank you!

Maple Syrup: Replace coconut sugar with maple syrup for a different sweet profile; just reduce the liquid in the batter slightly!
Banana Twist: Substitute pumpkin puree with mashed bananas for a unique, fruity flavor. The bananas add natural sweetness and moisture, making your loaf even more delightful.
Dark Chocolate: Use dark chocolate instead of cacao powder for a richer, more decadent taste. This will heighten the chocolate experiences, making each bite absolutely divine.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a beautiful crunch and nutty flavor. The texture contrast is sure to make your loaf even more satisfying!
Minty Freshness: For an extra minty kick, incorporate chocolate mint extract alongside the peppermint extract. It’ll elevate the flavor profile, creating a refreshing, layered taste.
Spicy Touch: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground ginger for a hint of warmth and spice. It’s a surprising twist that contrasts beautifully with the chocolate!
Dairy-Free Icing: Use silken tofu blended with coconut icing sugar for a creamy, dairy-free icing alternative. It retains the sweetness and adds a silky texture without the guilt.
Lemon Zing: Brighten up your loaf with a touch of lemon zest in the batter. The citrus notes will provide a refreshing kick that pairs surprisingly well with the chocolate and peppermint.

These variations can help to personalize your Chocolate Peppermint Loaf, making it uniquely yours. For more inspiration, check out our Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Sausage or Italian Stuffed Meatloaf for creative flavor combinations!

What to Serve with Chocolate Peppermint Loaf with Candy Cane Vanilla Icing

A charming afternoon tea or festive gathering awaits when you pair your slice of this delightful loaf with these comforting accompaniments!

Rich Coffee: A warm cup of coffee balances the sweetness of the loaf, enhancing its chocolatey goodness and making every bite heavenly.
Cocoa Dusted Almonds: These crunchy, roasted delights add a nutty contrast that beautifully complements the mousse-like texture of the loaf.
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a luscious, delicious twist that feels luxurious and festive!
Festive Fruit Salad: A mix of fresh seasonal fruits adds a refreshing brightness, balancing the loaf’s rich flavors and providing a touch of tartness.
Spiced Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai harmonize beautifully with the peppermint loaf, creating a warm, inviting flavor experience perfect for cozy moments.
Chocolate Mint Mocktail: This refreshing drink will tickle your taste buds, combining mint and chocolate in a bubbly treat that mirrors the loaf’s luscious flavors.
Whipped Coconut Cream: Top your loaf slices with fluffy coconut cream for a light and airy finish that enhances every indulgent bite.
Peppermint Hot Chocolate: For a festive touch, pair the loaf with a mug of creamy hot chocolate, bringing together the joy of the holidays in a delightful way!

Expert Tips for Chocolate Peppermint Loaf

Gluten-Free Guarantee: Ensure all your ingredients, especially baking powder and coconut sugar, are certified gluten-free to keep this Chocolate Peppermint Loaf safe for all.

Cooling Matters: Let your loaf cool completely before icing—this prevents the icing from melting and ensures a beautiful finish.

Add Some Crunch: Consider mixing in chocolate chips or additional crushed candy canes into the batter for an extra festive flair.

Measure With Care: Accurate measurements are key—use a kitchen scale for flour and sugar for the best results in your Chocolate Peppermint Loaf.

Store Smartly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain moisture and flavor.

Make Ahead Options

These Chocolate Peppermint Loaf with Candy Cane Vanilla Icing are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately, then combine them just before baking. To ensure freshness, store the dry ingredients in an airtight container and refrigerate the wet mixture. Optionally, you can bake the loaf ahead of time; it stays moist for up to 3 days when kept in an airtight container at room temperature. When it’s time to serve, simply ice the loaf with your prepared Candy Cane Vanilla Icing, sprinkle on the crushed candy canes, and enjoy the same delicious flavors, all while easing your kitchen workload!

Chocolate Peppermint Loaf with Candy Cane Icing Recipe FAQs

What type of gluten-free flour should I use?
Absolutely! You can use any gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as it forms the loaf’s base structure. Just make sure it’s a blend that contains xanthan gum for structure. This will ensure a nice, tender crumb in your Chocolate Peppermint Loaf!

How should I store the Chocolate Peppermint Loaf?
To keep your loaf fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like it to last longer, refrigerate it for up to 1 week. Just be sure the container is sealed to maintain moisture.

Can I freeze the Chocolate Peppermint Loaf?
Definitely! Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight before slicing and serving.

What if my Chocolate Peppermint Loaf is too dense?
If your loaf turns out dense, it might be due to over-mixing the batter or using too much flour. To avoid this, mix until just combined and fluff the flour with a spoon before measuring. You can also try adding a couple of extra ounces of pumpkin puree for moisture!

Are there any dietary considerations for my pets?
It’s important to note that chocolate is toxic to pets, including dogs. Keep your Chocolate Peppermint Loaf out of their reach to ensure their safety. For anyone with allergies, check the ingredient labels for allergens, especially if you’re substituting any components.

How can I enhance the flavor even further?
Try incorporating mini chocolate chips or more crushed candy canes into the batter for added texture! A subtle addition of espresso powder can also deepen the chocolate flavor without overtaking the peppermint essence. Enjoy experimenting!