Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless preparation – Just toss the ingredients in your slow cooker and let it do the work.
- Perfect for gatherings – Ideal for fall parties, Thanksgiving, or holiday celebrations.
- Rich and creamy – The combination of pumpkin, chocolate, and milk creates a smooth, indulgent texture.
- Warm spices – A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves enhances the cozy autumn flavors.
- Customizable – Easily adjust the sweetness and spice levels to your preference.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Whole milk
- Heavy cream
- Pumpkin puree
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- Brown sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Ground cinnamon
- Nutmeg
- Cloves
- Salt
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Chocolate shavings (optional)
Directions
- In a slow cooker, combine the milk, heavy cream, and pumpkin puree. Stir until smooth.
- Add the chocolate chips, cocoa powder, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
- Cover and cook on low for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is well combined.
- Once heated through, give it a final stir and adjust the sweetness or spice levels if needed.
- Serve warm, topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6–8
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 2–3 hours
Variations
- Dairy-free version: Use almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk and replace the heavy cream with coconut cream.
- Extra chocolatey: Add more chocolate chips or drizzle in some melted chocolate before serving.
- Spiced up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Boozy twist: Stir in a splash of bourbon, rum, or coffee liqueur for an adult-friendly version.
- Sweeter option: Use white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the dairy may separate when thawed.
FAQs
How can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
You can prepare it on the stovetop by combining the ingredients in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until everything is melted and smooth.
Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?
It’s best to use plain pumpkin puree since pumpkin pie filling contains added sugar and spices that may alter the flavor.
What type of chocolate is best for this recipe?
Semi-sweet chocolate chips work well, but you can also use dark chocolate for a richer taste or milk chocolate for a sweeter version.
Can I use white chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate?
Yes, white chocolate will create a different but delicious variation of this drink.
How can I make this drink thicker?
For a thicker consistency, use more heavy cream or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water.
Can I make this hot chocolate in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours ahead and keep it warm in the slow cooker on the “Keep Warm” setting.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Absolutely! It’s a family-friendly drink, but you can adjust the sweetness or spice levels to suit their taste.
Can I use a sugar substitute?
Yes, you can replace the brown sugar with a sugar-free sweetener like monk fruit, erythritol, or stevia.
What toppings go well with this hot chocolate?
Whipped cream, chocolate shavings, marshmallows, cinnamon, or even caramel drizzle make great toppings.
Can I add coffee to this recipe?
Yes, adding a shot of espresso or some brewed coffee can turn this into a delicious pumpkin mocha.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Pumpkin Hot Chocolate is a delightful, comforting drink perfect for fall and winter. With its rich, chocolatey flavor and warm pumpkin spice notes, it’s sure to become a seasonal favorite. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or enjoying a quiet night in, this cozy treat is easy to make and absolutely delicious. Try it today and savor the taste of autumn in every sip!
Slow Cooker Pumpkin Hot Chocolate
Warm up with this creamy Slow Cooker Pumpkin Hot Chocolate! Made with real pumpkin, rich chocolate, and warm spices, this easy crockpot hot chocolate is perfect for fall gatherings, Halloween parties, or a cozy night in
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 2-3 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes – 3 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Beverages, Drinks
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 4 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ¼ cup cocoa powder
- ¼ cup maple syrup (or brown sugar)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Whipped cream and cinnamon (for serving)
Instructions
- In a slow cooker, add milk, heavy cream, pumpkin puree, chocolate chips, cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
- Whisk everything together until well combined.
- Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Once done, whisk again and ladle into mugs.
- Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon before serving.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, use almond milk and coconut cream instead of dairy.
- Adjust sweetness by adding more maple syrup or brown sugar to taste.
- Want extra richness? Stir in ½ cup white chocolate chips!
