Name: Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 12 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy); 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree; 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 tablespoons sugar (or to taste); 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice; 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; Whipped cream (optional); Extra pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon (for garnish)

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If you adore cozy fall flavors and rich, creamy chocolate in one cup, the Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate Recipe is going to be your new seasonal obsession. This warm and comforting drink brings together silky smooth melted chocolate, spiced pumpkin, and aromatic spices, accentuating every sip with a gentle kiss of vanilla. It’s everything you love about autumn mornings and chilly evenings bundled into one hug-in-a-mug. With easy, pantry-friendly ingredients and a foolproof process, get ready to create the coziest treat that’s guaranteed to become a year-round favorite!

Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate Recipe is how a handful of simple ingredients work some serious magic together. From the undeniable creaminess of milk to the luxe flavor of pumpkin and chocolate, each addition has a purpose—building a decadent, spice-kissed drink that tastes like pure comfort.

Milk (dairy or non-dairy): Brings rich creaminess—oat or almond milk keep it vegan, whole milk gets super creamy.
Canned pumpkin puree: Real pumpkin! Not just flavor, but creaminess and gorgeous color too.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: Delivers that deep, chocolatey base—choose high-quality for best flavor.
Sugar (or to taste): Sweetness balances the spices and cocoa; adjust based on your chocolate and personal taste.
Pumpkin pie spice: The magic blend that instantly evokes autumn—cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and clove.
Cinnamon: An extra sprinkle layers on warmth and aroma.
Vanilla extract: Adds a soft, mellow undertone and enhances the overall cozy factor.
Pinch of salt: Just enough to amplify the chocolate and pumpkin without tasting salty.
Whipped cream (optional for topping): Super fluffy finishing touch—store-bought or homemade both work.
Extra pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon (for garnish): A dusting on top smells amazing and looks extra inviting.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Base Ingredients

Grab a small saucepan and add your milk, pumpkin puree, cocoa powder, sugar, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and that tiny pinch of salt. The key here is to whisk everything together right from the start, so the pumpkin fully blends and there are no cocoa lumps. This is where the magic really begins: as you whisk, that autumn aroma fills your kitchen!

Step 2: Gently Heat and Whisk

Place your saucepan over medium heat. Stir or whisk constantly as the mixture warms through. You’re aiming for a silky-smooth texture, not a boil—otherwise, you risk scorching the milk. After about 5 to 7 minutes, you’ll notice the mixture thickening slightly and becoming glossy and decadent.

Step 3: Finish with Vanilla

Once your hot chocolate is piping hot but not bubbling, turn off the heat. Now stir in the vanilla extract. Adding this at the end preserves all its beautiful aroma, giving your Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate Recipe an irresistibly cozy finish.

Step 4: Pour and Serve

Carefully pour your finished hot chocolate into your favorite mugs. If you want the full café experience (and who doesn’t?), crown each serving with a generous swirl of whipped cream and a dusting of pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon. Each mug looks so inviting and festive, perfect for savoring alone or sharing with your favorite people.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate Recipe

Garnishes

The classic toppings for this Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate Recipe are whipped cream and an extra sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon. For an extra-special touch, try chocolate shavings, mini marshmallows, or a drizzle of caramel—these add luscious texture and make every mug irresistibly Instagram-worthy.

Side Dishes

This luscious drink pairs like a dream with classic fall treats—think snickerdoodle cookies, spiced scones, or pumpkin bread. For a more decadent dessert moment, dunk crisp biscotti or cinnamon-sugar donut holes. If it’s brunch time, serve alongside warm croissants or a brioche cinnamon roll to cozy up any morning.

Creative Ways to Present

Create a DIY hot chocolate bar where everyone can customize their toppings—offer crushed graham crackers, white chocolate chips, or a sprinkle of sea salt. For holiday gatherings, serve in clear mugs for a layered look, or set out cinnamon sticks as natural stirrers. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a shot of espresso for an autumn-inspired mocha twist!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate Recipe, simply let it cool slightly, then pour it into a jar or airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. Give it a good shake or stir before reheating, as the spices and pumpkin may settle.

Freezing

While freezing isn’t ideal for the creamiest texture, you can freeze any extra hot chocolate in small freezer-safe containers. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating—just note the dairy or non-dairy milk might separate a little. A quick whisk should bring it back together.

Reheating

To warm up your Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate Recipe leftovers, heat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often so it doesn’t scorch. You can also microwave it in 30-second bursts, whisking or stirring between each round until hot and smooth once again.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pumpkin puree instead of canned?

Absolutely! Homemade pumpkin puree works perfectly in this recipe—just make sure it’s well-drained and smooth for best texture. Use the same amount, and enjoy that extra fresh flavor.

Is this Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate Recipe vegan?

Yes, it’s easy to make vegan! Simply use non-dairy milk such as oat or almond, and skip the whipped cream or use a dairy-free version. Double-check your cocoa powder and sugar to make sure they’re vegan-friendly if needed.

What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?

No worries at all! Mix 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg, 1/8 teaspoon ginger, and a pinch of clove or allspice. Blend these spices yourself for a perfect homemade substitute.

Can I double or triple this recipe for a crowd?

Definitely! Just scale up the ingredients and use a larger saucepan. It makes a fabulously festive treat for parties, small get-togethers, or a chilly movie night at home.

Any tips on making it extra thick and indulgent?

For an ultra-rich Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate Recipe, substitute a splash of heavy cream or use full-fat coconut milk for part of the liquid. You can also add a handful of chocolate chips as it heats for extra decadence!

Final Thoughts

If fall coziness had a flavor, it would taste just like this Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate Recipe. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or sipping solo under a blanket, don’t be surprised if this becomes your number one warm-up treat all season long. Give it a try—you have every delicious reason to!

Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate Recipe

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4.6 from 30 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 12 minutes
Yield: 2 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with this delicious Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate recipe. Creamy, rich, and perfectly spiced, it’s the ultimate comfort drink for chilly days.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate:

2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tablespoons sugar (or to taste)
1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

For Topping:

Whipped cream (optional)
Extra pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon (for garnish)

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Instructions

In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the milk, pumpkin puree, cocoa powder, sugar, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt.

Heat gently, whisking constantly, until the mixture is hot and smooth but not boiling.

Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream if desired.

Sprinkle with a little extra pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon for garnish.

Serve hot and enjoy immediately.

Notes

Use oat milk or almond milk for a dairy-free version.
Adjust the sweetness to taste, and feel free to add a shot of espresso for a pumpkin mocha twist.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 7 minutes
Category: Beverage
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American