Slow Cooker Pumpkin Hot Chocolate is a rich, creamy, and comforting drink perfect for fall and winter. Made with real pumpkin, warm spices, and velvety chocolate, this decadent hot cocoa is ideal for cozy nights, holiday gatherings, or simply indulging in a seasonal treat. Let your slow cooker do the work while the flavors blend into a deliciously spiced, pumpkin-infused delight.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make – Just dump the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do the work.
- Perfect for fall – A cozy blend of pumpkin, spices, and chocolate.
- Great for gatherings – A warm, crowd-pleasing drink for holidays and parties.
- Customizable – Adjust the sweetness, chocolate level, or spice 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 purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
- Semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- Sugar or maple syrup
- Pumpkin pie spice
- Vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Directions
- Combine Ingredients: In a slow cooker, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, pumpkin purée, cocoa powder, sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
- Add Chocolate: Stir in the chopped chocolate, then cover and set the slow cooker to low.
- Cook: Let it heat for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Finish: Stir in the vanilla extract before serving.
- Serve: Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream, marshmallows, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: About 6 cups
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 2-3 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes – 3 hours 5 minutes
Variations
- Dairy-Free: Use almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk with dairy-free chocolate.
- Extra Spiced: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or a dash of cayenne for warmth.
- Sweeter Version: Use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet or dark chocolate.
- Boozy Twist: Stir in a splash of Baileys, Kahlúa, or bourbon before serving.
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 30-second intervals until hot.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as dairy-based hot chocolate can separate when thawed.
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin purée?
No, pumpkin pie filling contains added sugar and spices, which could make the drink too sweet or overpowering.
What’s the best type of chocolate to use?
Semi-sweet or dark chocolate works best for a balanced flavor, but milk chocolate can be used for a sweeter drink.
Can I make this on the stovetop instead?
Yes! Simmer the ingredients over low heat, stirring frequently until smooth and warm.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat before serving.
How do I prevent the chocolate from burning in the slow cooker?
Stir the mixture occasionally and keep the heat on low to prevent scorching.
Can I add coffee to make a pumpkin mocha?
Yes! Add 1-2 cups of brewed coffee or espresso for a delicious pumpkin mocha.
What toppings go well with this hot chocolate?
Whipped cream, marshmallows, cinnamon, chocolate shavings, or caramel drizzle.
Can I make this sugar-free?
Yes, use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
What’s the best way to keep this warm for a party?
Keep it on the “warm” setting in the slow cooker and stir occasionally.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, simply double the ingredients and ensure your slow cooker is large enough to hold it.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Pumpkin Hot Chocolate is the ultimate fall and winter treat, combining the cozy flavors of pumpkin and spices with rich, velvety chocolate. It’s an effortless, crowd-pleasing drink that’s perfect for family gatherings, holiday parties, or just curling up with a good book. Try different variations to make it your own, and enjoy a cup of warm, spiced chocolate goodness!
PrintSlow Cooker Pumpkin Hot Chocolate
This Slow Cooker Pumpkin Hot Chocolate is rich, creamy, and full of warm fall flavors. Made with real pumpkin, chocolate, and cozy spices, it’s the perfect drink for holiday gatherings, chilly nights, or a fun family treat. Just set it and forget it!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 2-3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- ¼ cup cocoa powder
- ⅓ cup maple syrup or brown sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Toppings (Optional)
- Whipped cream
- Mini marshmallows
- Cinnamon or nutmeg sprinkle
- Chocolate shavings
Instructions
- Combine ingredients: Add milk, heavy cream, chocolate chips, pumpkin puree, cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla, pumpkin pie spice, and salt into the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
- Whisk & serve: Give it a good whisk before serving to make sure everything is well blended.
- Top & enjoy: Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream, marshmallows, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Notes
- Dairy-Free Option: Use almond or oat milk and coconut cream.
- Extra Rich Flavor: Add a splash of espresso or coffee for a mocha twist.
- Spiked Version: Stir in a shot of bourbon, rum, or Irish cream for adults.
- Make Ahead: Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or slow cooker.