White Chocolate Candy Cane Loaf: Your Ultimate Festive Baking Recipe
There’s an undeniable magic to candy canes, especially as the holiday season approaches. That crisp, minty sweetness combined with a vibrant red and white swirl simply evokes pure festive joy. As someone deeply passionate about Christmas baking, it was only natural for me to integrate this beloved treat into a new, exciting recipe. Imagining the perfect Christmas morning or a cozy winter afternoon, I envisioned a freshly baked loaf – something easy, incredibly flavorful, and undeniably festive. And so, the delightful **White Chocolate Candy Cane Loaf** was born! This loaf isn’t just delicious; it’s a truly special creation that captures the essence of the holidays in every bite.
While I often fall in love with my newest loaf recipes, this peppermint and white chocolate combination holds a particularly special place. Its unique blend of creamy white chocolate and refreshing crushed candy cane bits makes it an absolute showstopper. Plus, for those of us who stock up on discounted candy canes after the holidays, this recipe offers the perfect excuse to enjoy that festive flavor all year long. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try baking this sensational loaf. Its simple preparation and outstanding taste are guaranteed to impress, making it a new staple in your baking repertoire. Each serving is perfectly portioned to share, offering a delightful experience without any guilt. Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite holiday loaf!
White chocolate candy cane loaf
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp light butter, I recommend Gay Lea light butter with canola oil for a lighter option, yet full of flavor.
- 2 Tbsp sugar
- 1 egg
- 2 Tbsp liquid egg whites
- 1 tsp peppermint extract
- 3/4 cup vanilla yogurt, preferably 0% Greek yogurt for a lighter texture, or in Canada, PC’s vanilla Skyr yogurt works wonderfully.
- 1/2 cup milk, 1% milk is ideal for this recipe, providing just the right consistency.
- 1 1/3 cup flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 4 Tbsp white chocolate chips
- Crushed candy canes, if you have access to candy cane bits from a bulk store, use 3 Tbsp. Otherwise, crush approximately 2 (13g) standard candy canes yourself for the perfect amount of peppermint crunch.
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350F (175°C). Prepare a standard-sized loaf pan by generously coating it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
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In a medium mixing bowl, cream together the light butter and granulated sugar until smooth and well combined. Then, whisk in your whole egg and liquid egg whites until fully incorporated.
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Next, gently fold in the vanilla yogurt, milk, and the refreshing peppermint extract. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
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Gradually add your dry ingredients: the flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Stir until the batter is just smooth, ensuring no dry streaks of flour remain.
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For an even distribution of chocolatey goodness, take 3 tablespoons of your white chocolate chips and give them a rough chop (this helps them spread further in the loaf, especially if you’re not using mini chips). Mix these chopped white chocolate chips and 2 tablespoons of the crushed candy cane into your batter. The batter will be on the thicker side, which is perfectly normal.
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Carefully pour the prepared batter into your greased loaf pan, using a spatula to ensure an even spread.
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Sprinkle the top of the batter with an additional 1/2 tablespoon of crushed candy cane for an extra festive touch. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 45 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven. Don’t be alarmed if the loaf appears to sink slightly in the middle; this is a common occurrence due to the higher moisture content from the yogurt, but rest assured, it will still be incredibly delicious and moist!
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Allow the loaf to cool completely in the pan before attempting to remove it. Once cooled, carefully transfer the loaf to a wire rack. To create the decadent drizzle, melt your remaining 1 tablespoon of white chocolate chips. A simple method is to place them in a small zip-top bag and microwave in 35-second intervals, checking and massaging the bag each time, until smooth (this usually takes me about 3 intervals). Snip a tiny corner off the bag and elegantly drizzle the melted white chocolate over the cooled loaf. Finish by sprinkling the final 1/2 tablespoon of crushed candy cane bits on top for a beautiful presentation and added crunch. Slice into 10 generous portions.
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This delectable loaf is truly at its best when served fresh. If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
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Nutritional Information per slice (approximate): Calories: 147 | Fat: 4g (Saturated Fat: 1.9g) | Carbohydrates: 21.6g (Fiber: 0.5g, Sugar: 8.3g) | Protein: 5g.
Additional Info
The pictures truly capture the festive spirit of this White Chocolate Candy Cane Loaf. Each image showcases the beautiful golden crust, the vibrant red and white flecks of candy cane, and the delicate drizzle of white chocolate. These visuals are a testament to how simple yet elegant this holiday treat can be, making it a perfect centerpiece for any gathering or a delightful gift for loved ones.
Why This White Chocolate Candy Cane Loaf is a Holiday Must-Have
This isn’t just another loaf; it’s a celebration of festive flavors and cozy moments. The combination of smooth, rich white chocolate with the invigorating zing of peppermint creates a symphony of taste that perfectly embodies the holiday spirit. It’s light, fluffy, and incredibly moist thanks to the use of yogurt, making it a guilt-free indulgence that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast option during the busy season, a delightful afternoon snack with your coffee or tea, or an impressive dessert to share, this loaf fits every occasion. Its striking appearance, adorned with crushed candy canes, also makes it a visual treat, ensuring it stands out on any holiday table.
Tips for the Perfect Peppermint Loaf
- Don’t Overmix: When combining your wet and dry ingredients, mix just until the flour streaks disappear. Overmixing can develop the gluten too much, leading to a tougher loaf. A light hand ensures a tender, moist crumb.
- Quality Ingredients: While light butter and yogurt help keep it lighter, using good quality white chocolate chips and a fresh peppermint extract will significantly enhance the flavor profile.
- Crushing Candy Canes: If you’re crushing your own candy canes, place them in a sturdy Ziploc bag and gently tap with a rolling pin or the back of a heavy pan. Don’t pulverize them; you want some small bits for texture and visual appeal.
- Cooling is Key: Ensure the loaf is completely cooled before glazing. Applying warm glaze to a warm loaf will cause it to melt and soak in rather than form a distinct, appealing drizzle.
Serving Suggestions & Storage
This White Chocolate Candy Cane Loaf is incredibly versatile. It makes for an excellent holiday breakfast, perhaps alongside a warm mug of hot cocoa or coffee. Serve it as a delightful dessert after a festive meal, or simply enjoy a slice as a comforting snack throughout the day. For an extra touch of decadence, a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully, especially if the loaf is slightly warmed.
To keep your loaf fresh and delicious, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. While it’s best enjoyed fresh, the flavors tend to meld beautifully overnight. You can also freeze individual slices, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, for up to a month. Thaw at room temperature or gently warm in the microwave for a quick treat.
Variations to Try
Feeling adventurous? Here are a few ideas to customize your Candy Cane Loaf:
- Dark Chocolate Drizzle: Instead of white chocolate, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled loaf for a striking contrast and a richer flavor profile.
- Extra Peppermint Kick: For true peppermint lovers, you could add an extra ¼ teaspoon of peppermint extract to the batter, or even incorporate a few drops of red food coloring to give the batter a subtle pink hue.
- Nutty Crunch: While not traditional, a sprinkle of finely chopped pecans or walnuts could add an interesting textural element if you enjoy nuts in your baked goods.
- Cream Cheese Glaze: For an even richer topping, consider a simple cream cheese glaze instead of the melted white chocolate. Whisk together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, a touch of milk, and a tiny bit of peppermint extract.
This White Chocolate Candy Cane Loaf truly is a testament to the joy of holiday baking. Its delightful flavor profile, ease of preparation, and festive appearance make it a recipe you’ll want to revisit year after year. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try and share the joy of homemade goodness with friends and family. Happy baking!