Spiked Pumpkin Hot Chocolate Recipe

Spiked Pumpkin Hot Chocolate is my go-to for chilly evenings when I want something sweet, warm, and just a little indulgent.

I first made it on a cool weekend afternoon when leftover pumpkin puree was sitting in the fridge, and I wanted something comforting with a hint of adult warmth.

The result? A creamy, chocolatey drink with subtle pumpkin flavor, perfectly complemented by a splash of bourbon or spiced rum. It’s easy, fast, and feels like a treat without being over the top.

Behind the Recipe

I love seasonal flavors that feel natural rather than overdone. This recipe was born from wanting pumpkin flavor beyond just desserts. Mixing it with chocolate created a rich, smooth base, and adding alcohol at the end made it feel like a cozy, grown-up drink. It quickly became a favorite for evenings at home or casual fall gatherings.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Pumpkin and chocolate are a classic fall pairing, often seen in baked goods. Spiked hot chocolate combines the comforting warmth of cocoa with the seasonal charm of pumpkin. Alcohol is a common addition in fall drinks, adding subtle warmth and depth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Warm and comforting for fall evenings
• Rich chocolate flavor balanced by gentle pumpkin
• Quick to prepare in under 10 minutes
• Naturally creamy without heavy cream
• Perfect for quiet nights or casual entertaining
• Customizable with different spirits
• Easy to make for one or a crowd

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Warm milk slowly to avoid scorching.
• Whisk pumpkin thoroughly for a smooth texture.
• Add alcohol at the end to preserve flavor.
• Taste before serving to adjust sweetness.
• Optional: broil marshmallows on top for a fun twist.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

1. Small saucepan
2. Whisk
3. Measuring cups and spoons
4. Heatproof mug

Ingredients in This Recipe

1. 1½ cups milk
2. 2 tablespoons pumpkin purée
3. 1½ tablespoons cocoa powder
4. 2 tablespoons semi-sweet chocolate chips
5. 1–2 teaspoons sugar or maple syrup
6. ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
7. ¼ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
8. 1–2 oz bourbon or spiced rum
9. Whipped cream, optional

Ingredient Substitutions

• Almond, oat, or coconut milk instead of dairy.
• Swap chocolate chips for melted chocolate or cocoa powder alone.
• Maple syrup or agave instead of sugar.
• Use ground cinnamon if pumpkin pie spice isn’t available.

Ingredient Spotlight

Pumpkin Puree: Gives subtle natural sweetness and a smooth texture without overpowering the chocolate.
Bourbon/Spiced Rum: Adds warmth and depth, balancing the sweetness and spice.

Spiked Pumpkin Hot Chocolate

This warm beverage combines rich hot chocolate with pumpkin purée and a splash of bourbon, creating a creamy, velvety drink with a slightly thick texture topped with whipped cream and a dash of cinnamon. It features a smooth, indulgent finish with a fragrant, spiced aroma, perfect for cozy fall evenings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Drinks

Cuisine: Fall

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1½ cups milk
• 2 tablespoons pumpkin purée
• 1½ tablespoons cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 –2 teaspoons sugar or maple syrup
• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1 –2 oz bourbon or spiced rum
• Whipped cream optional

Equipment

• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mug for serving

Method

 

1. Pour the milk into a saucepan and warm over medium heat until it begins to steam, with gentle bubbling around the edges.
2. Whisk in the cocoa powder, chocolate chips, and sugar until smooth, whisking continuously to dissolve and combine the ingredients into a smooth, frothy mixture. Continue until the mixture is hot and well-blended.
3. Add the pumpkin purée and vanilla extract to the saucepan, whisking until the mixture is uniformly bright orange and thoroughly incorporated. Heat gently for 2–3 minutes, whisking constantly to keep the mixture smooth
4. Stir in the bourbon and cook for another minute, ensuring it’s warmed through. You’ll notice a rich aroma of spices and chocolate filling your kitchen.
5. Pour the hot chocolate into mugs, then top generously with whipped cream and sprinkle a dash of cinnamon on top for an extra fragrant touch.
6. Serve immediately while steaming hot, and enjoy the creamy, spiced flavors alongside the cozy ambiance of fall.

Notes

Adjust bourbon and cinnamon amounts to taste. For a richer texture, stir in a little more whipped cream or a dash of vanilla extract before serving.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• Make the hot chocolate (without alcohol) ahead and store in fridge for 24 hours.
• Reheat gently and stir in alcohol before serving.

How to Serve This Drink

• Serve in a wide mug for cozy sipping.
• Top with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice.
• Pair with cookies, biscotti, or a slice of cake.

Creative Leftover Transformations

• Pour into popsicle molds for frozen pumpkin chocolate treats.
• Use as a base for a pumpkin mocha smoothie.
• Stir into oatmeal or overnight oats for extra flavor.

Additional Tips

• Pinch of sea salt enhances chocolate flavor.
• Blend slightly for frothier texture.
• Add a splash of milk to loosen if it gets too thick.

Make It a Showstopper

Top with whipped cream, a light dusting of pumpkin spice, and a drizzle of chocolate syrup. Serve with a cinnamon stick for stirring—instant café-style presentation.

Variations to Try

1. Mexican Spice: Add pinch of cayenne and cinnamon.
2. Irish Cream Hot Chocolate: Use only Irish cream for a silky, mellow flavor.
3. Pumpkin Mocha: Add 1–2 tablespoons espresso.
4. White Chocolate Pumpkin: Use white chocolate instead of cocoa and chocolate chips.
5. Nutty Pumpkin Hot Chocolate: Add a tablespoon of hazelnut or almond liqueur.

FAQ’s

1. Can I make it alcohol-free? Yes, skip the bourbon or rum.
2. Can I use canned pumpkin? Yes, pure pumpkin only, not pumpkin pie filling.
3. Can I use chocolate syrup instead of chips? Yes, but chips melt more smoothly.
4. Can it be dairy-free? Yes, almond, oat, or coconut milk work.
5. Can I double the recipe? Yes, heat slowly to prevent scorching.
6. How strong is the alcohol flavor? Mild if you follow 1–2 ounces per serving.
7. Can kids drink it? Yes, make without alcohol.
8. Can I make it in advance? Yes, store without alcohol.
9. How long should I heat it? Just until steaming; don’t boil.
10. Can I add spices? Cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger are great additions.

Mahek Manchanda

Hi, I am Mahek Manchanda. The curious heart behind Dramatically Stirring. I’ve always been most at ease in my own company. I’m not exactly a people-person (small talk still makes me cringe), but there are two things I’ve always loved with my whole heart: animals and food.