This spiced pumpkin hot chocolate is a perfect fall indulgence!
Just whisk milk, pumpkin puree and brown sugar with warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger and cloves.
Heat until tiny bubbles form, then stir in chopped semisweet chocolate until glossy.
Pour into your favorite mug and top with whipped cream if you’re feeling extra!
Making this dairy-free with almond milk or adding a protein boost creates delicious variations.
The secret storage tricks will keep this cozy treat perfect all week.
Ingredients
This delightful drink is inspired by creamy pumpkin soup, a beloved comfort food that warms the soul during chilly seasons.
Recommended Tools
Creating this cozy Spiced Pumpkin Hot Chocolate is easy when you have the right kitchen tools on hand. These simple essentials will help you whisk, heat and serve this delicious fall treat with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Additionally, having essential meal prep supplies will streamline your cooking process and enhance your overall kitchen experience.
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- Small Saucepan:
The perfect size pot for heating your milk and chocolate mixture without burning or boiling over.
- Whisk:
Essential for combining the milk, spices and pumpkin puree smoothly without lumps.
- Measuring Spoons:
Helps you add just the right amount of spices and vanilla for that perfect flavor balance.
- Measuring Cups:
Ensures you use the correct proportions of milk and pumpkin puree for the best texture and taste.
- Kitchen Knife:
Makes quick work of chopping the semisweet chocolate into small pieces that melt easily.
- Mugs:
A nice set of mugs not only serves your hot chocolate but makes the whole experience more enjoyable.
- Small Saucepan:
Instructions for Spiced Pumpkin Hot Chocolate
Ready to make the coziest drink of the season? Let’s jump right in! Grab your favorite pot and whisk together 1 1/4 cups milk, 1-2 tablespoons pumpkin puree, and 1-2 tablespoons light brown sugar.
Then add your spice squad: 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg, 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger, and just a pinch each of ground cloves and salt. Don’t forget 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract for that extra yumminess!
Heat this magical mixture over medium-low heat until you see tiny bubbles forming around the edges of the pot. That’s your signal to move to the next step!
Turn the heat down to low (we don’t want burnt chocolate – yuck!) and add 3 ounces of chopped semisweet chocolate. This is where the magic happens! Stir constantly until all that chocolate melts into a thick, velvety dream.
This usually takes about 1-2 minutes, but trust your eyes – when it looks glossy and smells amazing, you’re good to go!
Pour your creation into your favorite mug and get ready for pure bliss! Want to take it over the top? Add a generous swirl of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
To elevate your cozy experience, consider pairing your hot chocolate with Pumpkin French Toast Bake, which is the coziest breakfast for fall!
Drink it right away while it’s hot – this isn’t a beverage that likes to wait around!
Pro Tips
For a smoother, lump-free pumpkin hot chocolate, first mix the pumpkin puree with the spices and a splash of hot milk in a separate bowl to create a smooth paste before adding to the pot.
This quick extra step ensures the pumpkin incorporates perfectly without clumping, resulting in a silky texture throughout your drink. Additionally, using pumpkin puree from fresh pumpkins can enhance the flavor and freshness of your hot chocolate.</p
Substitutions & Variations
The basic pumpkin hot chocolate recipe can be customized with different ingredients to create new flavor profiles, enhance nutrition or accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute almond milk, oat milk or coconut milk for regular milk for a vegan-friendly version with unique flavor notes.
- White Chocolate Twist: Replace semisweet chocolate with white chocolate chips and add a touch more pumpkin for a sweeter, creamier drink.
- Protein-Packed: Stir in 1 tablespoon of your favorite unflavored or vanilla protein powder after removing from heat for a post-workout treat.
- Mexican-Inspired: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper and swap brown sugar for piloncillo or cinnamon sticks for a warming south-of-the-border version.
- Maple Edition: Substitute pure maple syrup for brown sugar and add a tablespoon of bourbon (optional) for a sophisticated adult version.
- Coconut Spice: Use coconut milk and add ¼ teaspoon of cardamom for an Indian-inspired variation with tropical undertones.
- Nutritious Additions: Consider incorporating some vegan overnight oats into your breakfast routine for a wholesome start to your day.
Leftovers & Storage Tips
While fresh-made pumpkin hot chocolate tastes best immediately after preparation, you can store leftovers for enjoyment later.
Simply pour cooled chocolate into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
When you’re ready for another cozy cup, reheat gently on the stove (not microwave!) and whisk until smooth.
You’ll notice the spices might intensify overnight—I consider this a delicious bonus!
Tonight With Family
Spiced Pumpkin Hot Chocolate
A rich and warming chocolate drink infused with pumpkin puree and fall spices.
- 1 1/4 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1-2 tablespoons pumpkin puree
- 1-2 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 3 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
- Pinch of ground cloves
- Pinch of salt
- In a small pot, whisk milk, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, salt, and vanilla over medium-low heat until bubbles form near the edges.
- Reduce heat to low; add chocolate and stir until melted and thickened (1-2 minutes).
- Pour into a mug and optionally top with whipped cream and cinnamon.
