There’s something about the crisp air of fall that makes a warm mug of pumpkin spice hot chocolate feel like pure magic. It’s cozy, creamy, and spiced with all the flavors we wait for every autumn—cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and just the right amount of chocolatey richness. Whether you’re curled up with a blanket, hosting a festive gathering, or simply craving something warm after a pumpkin patch outing, this recipe is the ultimate comfort drink of the season.
And it’s not just a simple cup of cocoa—pumpkin spice hot chocolate has gone viral across TikTok and Instagram, sparking creative variations like whipped pumpkin spice hot chocolate, frozen pumpkin spice hot chocolate, and even pumpkin spice hot chocolate charcuterie boards for fall parties. Today, we’ll dive into why this drink has become a fall obsession, how to make it at home, and all the fun ways you can spin it into your own cozy creation.
Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate
Ingredients
- 1 ¼ cups milk whole, 2%, or plant-based
- 1 to 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree not pumpkin pie filling
- 1 to 2 tablespoons light brown sugar or maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon pumpkin spice blend cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves
- 1 pinch kosher salt
- 3 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped or white chocolate for variation
- ½ cup heavy cream for whipped topping (optional)
- ½ to 1 tablespoon light brown sugar for whipped topping (optional)
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, whisk together milk, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vanilla extract, pumpkin spice, and salt.
- Warm the mixture over medium-low heat until small bubbles form around the edges. Do not let it boil.
- Reduce heat to low, add chopped chocolate, and whisk until fully melted and smooth.
- Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream, if desired. Sprinkle with cinnamon or additional pumpkin spice.
- To make optional brown sugar whipped cream: Whip cold heavy cream with brown sugar until soft peaks form.
Notes
Nutrition
Why Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate Is a Fall Essential
Pumpkin spice hot chocolate is more than just a drink—it’s a seasonal ritual. Here’s why it stands out among fall beverages:
- Nostalgic flavor with a twist: You get the classic comfort of hot cocoa with the cozy warmth of pumpkin pie spice.
- Social media star: Recipes like TikTok Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate and Pumpkin White Hot Chocolate Recipe are blowing up online because they’re as photogenic as they are delicious.
- Customizable: Whether you want a Starbucks-style pumpkin spice hot chocolate, a boozy spiked pumpkin spice hot chocolate, or a vegan pumpkin spice hot chocolate, there’s a version for everyone.
- Perfect for gatherings: Set up a pumpkin spice hot chocolate charcuterie board with marshmallows, caramel drizzle, whipped cream, and fall sprinkles. Guests will love creating their own over-the-top drinks
Ingredients Breakdown
The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity—you can make it with pantry staples and just a touch of pumpkin puree.
- Milk (1¼ cups): Whole or 2% works best for creaminess, but almond or oat milk are great for a vegan version.
- Pumpkin puree (1–2 tbsp): Adds body and real pumpkin flavor. Just be sure to use puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
- Light brown sugar (1–2 tbsp): Sweetens and deepens flavor. Maple syrup can be swapped in for a cozy, earthy note.
- Vanilla extract (½ tsp): Balances the spice and chocolate.
- Pumpkin spice blend: Cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves bring that signature warmth.
- Kosher salt (pinch): Enhances flavor.
- Semisweet chocolate (3 oz): Melted into the base for richness. You can also try white chocolate for a pumpkin white hot chocolate recipe variation.
Optional toppings include whipped cream, caramel drizzle, mini marshmallows, or even espresso for a pumpkin spice mocha hot chocolate.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Combine the base: In a small saucepan, whisk together milk, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vanilla, spices, and salt.
- Heat gently: Warm the mixture over medium-low until small bubbles appear around the edges. Do not let it boil.
- Melt in the chocolate: Reduce to low heat, add the chopped chocolate, and whisk until fully melted and glossy.
- Serve: Pour into mugs, top with brown sugar whipped cream, and sprinkle with cinnamon.
Brown Sugar Whipped Cream (Optional):
Whip ½ cup chilled heavy cream with ½–1 tbsp light brown sugar until soft peaks form. Use immediately.
Variations to Try
The fun part about pumpkin spice hot chocolate is experimenting. Here are some trending spins you’ll find all over social media:
- Whipped Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate: Inspired by Dalgona coffee, add a whipped pumpkin spice topping for extra flair.
- Frozen Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate: A TikTok-inspired iced version—blend the base with ice and top with whipped cream.
- Spiked Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate: Stir in a splash of bourbon, Kahlúa, or Baileys for an adult-friendly party drink.
- Pumpkin Spice Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate: Scale up the recipe in a crockpot to serve a crowd during fall gatherings.
- Pumpkin Spice Hot Cocoa Bombs: Fill chocolate spheres with pumpkin spice mix and marshmallows, then pour hot milk over for a dramatic reveal.
Storage & Serving Ideas
- Serving: Pair with cookies, muffins, or even drizzle caramel along the inside of your mug for an extra treat.
- Storing: Best enjoyed fresh, but you can refrigerate leftovers in a sealed jar for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
- Party-Style: Create a pumpkin spice hot chocolate charcuterie board with toppings like whipped cream, marshmallows, caramel bits, cinnamon sticks, and sprinkles.
FAQs
1. Can I make pumpkin spice hot chocolate dairy-free?
Yes! All you need to do is swap out regular milk for a plant-based option like oat, almond, or soy milk, which still give you that creamy texture. For the chocolate, use a dairy-free bar or vegan chocolate chips so it melts smoothly into the drink. This way, you can enjoy a full vegan pumpkin spice hot chocolate without losing any of the indulgence. It’s one of the most popular variations trending right now among health-conscious foodies.
2. How do I make this taste like Starbucks pumpkin spice hot chocolate?
To get that coffee-shop flavor at home, use whole milk for richness, semisweet chocolate for depth, and a little extra pumpkin spice blend. Don’t forget to add a generous swirl of whipped cream and a caramel drizzle to mimic their cozy seasonal drinks. Some people even add a splash of espresso to get closer to the latte-inspired versions. This copycat Starbucks-style pumpkin spice hot chocolate saves you a trip (and a few dollars).
3. Can I serve this cold?
Absolutely! The recipe adapts beautifully into a chilled version that’s perfect for those warmer autumn afternoons. Just let the hot chocolate base cool completely, then blend it with a handful of ice until smooth and frothy. Top it with whipped cream and cinnamon for a fun frozen pumpkin spice hot chocolate that feels refreshing but still festive. It’s a TikTok trend that works surprisingly well year-round.
4. What alcohol pairs best in spiked pumpkin spice hot chocolate?
Bourbon is the go-to because it adds a smoky warmth that blends beautifully with the pumpkin spice. If you’re looking for something smoother, Baileys Irish Cream adds sweetness, while Kahlúa gives you a coffee-kissed edge. Rum and spiced liqueurs also fit the fall vibe perfectly. Whichever you choose, a spiked pumpkin spice hot chocolate instantly turns into the star of any adult-friendly fall gathering.
The Perfect Sip to End Your Day
Pumpkin spice hot chocolate isn’t just a drink—it’s an experience that captures everything we love about fall. From the cozy spices to the velvety chocolate, every sip feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. The best part? You can make it your own—try a Starbucks-style version, a vegan twist, or even a spiked option for holiday parties.
Pair it with other seasonal favorites like Pumpkin Soda Floats, Pumpkin Mousse, or a slice of Moist Pumpkin Bread for the ultimate autumn spread. And if you’re looking for more inspiration and behind-the-scenes kitchen fun, be sure to join me over on Pinterest and Facebook, where I share cozy recipes, seasonal ideas, and cooking tips daily.
So, the next time you’re craving something festive, grab your mug, whip up this pumpkin spice hot chocolate, and let fall’s coziest flavors fill your kitchen.
More Fall & Halloween Recipes
Cozy up with more seasonal favorites! From spooky party treats to warm pumpkin desserts, these recipes bring all the fall vibes straight to your table:
- Pumpkin Mousse – creamy, light, and perfect for fall gatherings.
- Halloween Charcuterie Board – spooky, fun, and perfect for parties.
- Moist Pumpkin Bread – a cozy classic to enjoy with coffee.
- Ghostface Chocolate Strawberries – spooky-sweet Halloween treat.
- Pumpkin Donuts – baked, spiced, and coated with sugar.
- Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix – crunchy, sweet, and snackable.
Tap any recipe to bring festive flavor into your kitchen this season!