Indulge in fall flavors with this rich, creamy hot chocolate spiced with pumpkin and warming cinnamon — perfect for chilly nights or holiday gatherings.
Tested twice: best texture and flavor when gently simmered for ~5 minutes to meld pumpkin + chocolate without scorching.
Ingredients (Serves 2)
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Milk (dairy or non-dairy) | 1½ cups (360 ml) |
| Pumpkin purée (not pie filling) | ⅓ cup (≈ 80 ml) |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | 2 tbsp |
| Semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate | 3 oz (≈ 85 g) |
| Pumpkin pie spice | ½ tsp + extra for garnish |
| Sugar or maple syrup | 1 tbsp (adjust to taste) |
| Vanilla extract | ½ tsp |
| Pinch of salt | to enhance flavor |
| Whipped cream or marshmallows (optional garnish) |
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Combine base ingredients
In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, pumpkin purée, cocoa powder, pumpkin pie spice, sugar (or maple syrup), and a pinch of salt. Planning Inspired+2Running to the Kitchen®+2 - Heat gently
Warm over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it just begins to steam (do not boil). When hot, add the chocolate chips and whisk until melted and smooth. Running to the Kitchen®+1 - Finish & serve
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Pour into mugs. Top with whipped cream or marshmallows and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice. Planning Inspired+2TidyMom®+2
Pro tip: Use a high-quality chocolate and whisk continuously while heating to prevent lumps. Running to the Kitchen®+1
Variations & Tips
- Dairy-free / vegan option: Use oat milk, almond milk, coconut milk, or soy milk in place of dairy. Perchance to Cook+1
- Extra chocolatey: Add a bit more chocolate or use dark chocolate for deeper flavor. Running to the Kitchen®+1
- Make ahead: Warm the mixture gently before serving; avoid reheating aggressively to prevent separation. Plant Based RD
- Slow cooker / batch method: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker on “low” for a large batch, stirring occasionally. TidyMom®
- Garnish ideas: Cinnamon stick, chocolate shavings, pumpkin spice, or a dusting of nutmeg.
Nutrition (Estimate per serving)
Calories: ~280–330 (depends on milk choice and chocolate)
Carbs: ~35 g | Sugar: ~24 g | Protein: ~6 g | Fat: ~13 g