Quick & Cozy Slow Cooker Pumpkin Hot Chocolate Recipe

Slow cooker pumpkin hot chocolate redefines ordinary winter beverages into a cozy, magical experience that warms both body and soul.

Autumnal spices dance through rich, creamy liquid, creating an irresistible blend of comfort and indulgence.

This delightful concoction marries the earthy sweetness of pumpkin with deep chocolate undertones, promising a luxurious sipping adventure.

Smooth and velvety, the drink captures the essence of seasonal celebrations with its inviting aroma and complex flavor profile.

Home cooks adore how effortlessly this recipe comes together, allowing minimal effort for maximum deliciousness.

Simple ingredients combine to craft a beverage that feels like a warm embrace on chilly evenings.

Each mug represents a moment of pure, decadent relaxation that elevates your favorite cold-weather ritual.

Fun Toppings and Flavors to Mix In

• Mocha Pumpkin Cocoa: Add 2 shots of espresso or strong coffee to the slow cooker for a rich, caffeinated version that brings warmth and depth to the classic recipe.
• Nutty Pumpkin Chocolate: Mix in 1/4 cup of almond or hazelnut butter for a creamy, nutty undertone that complements the pumpkin and chocolate flavors.
• Spicy Mexican Hot Chocolate: Incorporate 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bold, warming kick that transforms the drink into a zesty experience.
• Dark Chocolate Pumpkin Blend: Replace white chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips for a more intense, less sweet version that highlights the pumpkin's natural richness.

Why Slow Cooker Pumpkin Hot Chocolate Is a Cozy Drink

• Create Cozy Comfort: This slow cooker pumpkin hot chocolate wraps you in warm, velvety goodness perfect for chilly evenings, delivering a hug in a mug that instantly soothes your soul.
• Effortless Seasonal Indulgence: Minimal prep work means you can enjoy a gourmet-style hot chocolate without complicated steps, letting the slow cooker do all the magic while you relax.
• Rich Flavor Explosion: Combining pumpkin puree, white chocolate chips, and pumpkin pie spice creates a decadent drink that balances creamy sweetness with warm, autumnal spices in every delightful sip.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dessert Drink: Great for holiday gatherings, movie nights, or weekend treat moments, this recipe impresses guests and family with its luxurious texture and irresistible seasonal twist on classic hot chocolate.

What You Need for This Creamy Pumpkin-Flavored Hot Cocoa

• Sweetened Condensed Milk: Rich, creamy sweetener that adds depth and smooth texture to the hot chocolate.
• Heavy Cream: Provides luxurious richness and velvety mouthfeel to the drink.
• Milk: Helps create the perfect liquid base for the hot chocolate, balancing the other ingredients.

• Pumpkin Puree: Authentic pumpkin flavor that brings warm, seasonal essence to the drink.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: Classic spice blend that adds warm, cozy autumn notes to the hot chocolate.

• White Chocolate Chips: Creamy chocolate that melts smoothly and adds sweetness to the drink.
• Whipped Cream: Light, fluffy topping that complements the rich hot chocolate and adds extra indulgence.

How to Make Pumpkin Hot Chocolate in a Slow Cooker

Step 1: Create Smooth Pumpkin Base

• Sweetened condensed milk
• Heavy cream
• Whole milk
• Pumpkin puree

Whisk everything together until the mixture becomes silky smooth and completely blended.

Step 2: Sprinkle in Spice

Generously add pumpkin pie spice to the liquid mixture, stirring gently to distribute the warm, aromatic flavors throughout.

Step 3: Melt Chocolate Magic

Gradually add white chocolate chips into the slow cooker, stirring occasionally to help them melt evenly and create a rich, creamy texture.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Set your slow cooker to low heat and let the mixture simmer for 3 hours, or use high heat for 1.5 hours. Stir every 30 minutes to ensure even heating and prevent chocolate from sticking.

Step 5: Serve With Flair

Carefully ladle the hot chocolate into festive mugs. Crown each serving with a generous dollop of whipped cream and an extra sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice for a stunning presentation.

Tips to Keep It Smooth and Well-Spiced

• Stir Strategically: Whisk ingredients thoroughly at the start to prevent clumping and ensure a silky smooth texture throughout cooking.
• Prevent Scorching: Check and stir the mixture every 30 minutes to avoid chocolate burning or sticking to the slow cooker's bottom.
• Customize Creaminess: Adjust milk-to-cream ratio for a lighter or richer hot chocolate depending on your preference.
• Spice Balance: Start with recommended pumpkin pie spice amount, then taste and adjust for perfect seasonal flavor intensity.
• Topping Technique: Dollop fresh whipped cream just before serving to maintain its fluffy texture and prevent melting into the hot drink.

How to Store and Reheat This Hot Chocolate Without Curdling

• Refrigerate: Store leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
• Reheat: Warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to maintain smooth consistency. Add a splash of milk if the mixture seems too thick.
• Freeze: Pour cooled hot chocolate into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What to Pair with Pumpkin Cocoa for a Cozy Treat

• Complement with Warm Pastry Pals: Pair this rich pumpkin hot chocolate with fresh cinnamon rolls or soft pumpkin scones to enhance the cozy autumn flavor profile.
• Boost with Nutty Sidekicks: Serve alongside toasted pecan shortbread cookies or almond biscotti to add delightful crunch and complementary nutty undertones.
• Elevate with Spiced Beverage Companions: Match this creamy drink with a shot of espresso or a chai tea to create a luxurious flavor layering that highlights the pumpkin spice essence.
• Garnish with Gourmet Toppings: Sprinkle crushed gingersnap cookies or caramel-drizzled marshmallows on top to add extra texture and indulgent sweetness that amplifies the hot chocolate's warmth.

Slow Cooker Pumpkin Hot Chocolate Recipe

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4.6 from 9 reviews

• Total Time: 3 hours 5 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Creamy pumpkin hot chocolate brings warmth and comfort to cold autumn evenings. Rich spices and smooth chocolate blend perfectly, inviting friends and family to savor this delightful seasonal treat.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dairy and Base Ingredients:

• 6 cups milk
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 (14 ounces / 396 grams) can sweetened condensed milk

Chocolate and Pumpkin Ingredients:

• 1 (12 ounces / 340 grams) package high-quality white chocolate chips
• 1 (15 ounces / 425 grams) can pumpkin puree

Spice and Topping:

• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
• Whipped cream (for topping)

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Instructions

1. Gather a spacious 6-quart slow cooker and prepare to craft a luxurious autumn beverage that blends creamy textures with warm seasonal spices.
2. Pour sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, milk, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin pie spice into the slow cooker, using a whisk to create a velvety, harmonious mixture with no lumps.
3. Gently introduce white chocolate chips into the liquid base, stirring carefully to help them melt gradually and distribute evenly throughout the mixture.
4. Set the slow cooker to low temperature and allow the beverage to simmer for approximately 3 hours, or alternatively use high heat for 1.5 hours, periodically stirring to prevent chocolate from settling or burning.
5. Monitor the consistency, ensuring the chocolate chips melt completely and the liquid maintains a smooth, rich texture without scorching.
6. When the hot chocolate reaches a perfect, steaming temperature, carefully ladle the creamy concoction into individual serving glasses.
7. Crown each glass with a generous dollop of whipped cream, creating a luscious cloud-like topping that complements the pumpkin-infused drink.
8. For an extra touch of autumnal flair, dust the whipped cream with a delicate sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice, enhancing the aromatic profile of this comforting beverage.

Notes

• Requires minimal preparation, making it perfect for cozy autumn gatherings or lazy weekend mornings.
• Slow cooking allows flavors to meld together, creating a rich and creamy pumpkin-infused hot chocolate experience.
• Whisking ingredients thoroughly prevents lumps and ensures a smooth, velvety texture throughout the drink.
• Frequent stirring is crucial to help white chocolate chips melt evenly and prevent burning or sticking.
• Customize your hot chocolate by adjusting spices or topping with marshmallows, cinnamon sticks, or chocolate shavings.
• Best served immediately while hot, but can be kept warm in the slow cooker for up to 2 hours without compromising flavor.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours
• Category: Drinks, Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 490
• Sugar: 41 g
• Sodium: 230 mg
• Fat: 32 g
• Saturated Fat: 19 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 46 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 8 g
• Cholesterol: 105 mg