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Pumpkin Hot Chocolate

Pumpkin Hot Chocolate – Creamy and Chocolatey

Creamy Pumpkin Hot Chocolate made with real pumpkin puree, rich chocolate, cocoa, warm pumpkin pie spices, and vanilla. This easy fall drink is cozy, chocolatey, and perfect for Halloween, Thanksgiving, and chilly evenings.
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Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups whole milk — creates a rich and creamy base
  • ½ cup pumpkin puree — use plain pumpkin puree not pumpkin pie filling
  • ½ cup semisweet chocolate — chopped for easier melting
  • 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder — adds deeper chocolate flavor
  • 3 tbsp brown sugar — adjust according to taste
  • 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice — adds classic warm fall flavor
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract — enhances the chocolate and pumpkin flavors
  • ⅛ tsp salt — balances the sweetness
  • 1 cup whipped cream — for topping
  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon — for garnish

Optional Toppings

  • 2 tbsp chocolate shavings — for extra chocolate flavor
  • ½ cup mini marshmallows — for a fun cozy topping
  • 2 tbsp caramel sauce — for a sweet caramel drizzle

Instructions
 

  • Add the whole milk, pumpkin puree, cocoa powder, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and salt to a medium saucepan. Whisk until the ingredients are well combined.
  • Place the saucepan over medium-low heat and warm gently, whisking occasionally, until the mixture is hot and smooth. Do not bring it to a boil.
  • Reduce the heat to low and add the chopped semisweet chocolate. Whisk continuously until the chocolate melts completely and the mixture becomes rich and creamy.
  • Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Whisk once more until everything is completely smooth and combined.
  • Pour the hot chocolate into four mugs. Top with whipped cream and sprinkle lightly with cinnamon. Add chocolate shavings or mini marshmallows if desired. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

 
  • Use plain pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling for better control over the sweetness and spices.
  • Keep the heat at medium-low and avoid boiling the milk.
  • Use good-quality semisweet chocolate for the richest chocolate flavor.
  • Whisk thoroughly while the chocolate melts to create a smooth, creamy texture.
  • For a dairy-free version, use your favorite unsweetened plant-based milk and dairy-free chocolate.
  • Adjust the brown sugar according to your preferred sweetness.
  • Add whipped cream, cinnamon, chocolate shavings, caramel drizzle, or mini marshmallows just before serving.
  • Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container and gently reheat on the stovetop.
 

Nutrition Facts

 
  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Total Fat: 16 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg
  • Sodium: 110 mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 60 g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2 g
  • Total Sugars: 47 g
  • Added Sugars: 20 g
  • Protein: 10 g