Cozy Spiked Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate
A rich, velvety hot chocolate infused with a custom toasted pumpkin spice blend, real pumpkin puree, and a splash of bourbon or rum for a comforting holiday drink.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 4 oz high-quality dark chocolate (60-70% cocoa), finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree (100% pure, not pie filling)
- 1–2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pinch sea salt
- 1.5 to 2 ounces bourbon, rum, or brandy (optional)
Instructions
- Toast the pumpkin pie spice in a dry saucepan over medium-low heat for 60-90 seconds until fragrant, then remove from heat.
- In the same saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, brown sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warm but not boiling (about 3 minutes).
- Reduce heat to low and whisk in the pumpkin puree until fully smooth and integrated.
- Add the chopped dark chocolate and whisk gently until completely melted and the mixture is glossy (about 3 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and your chosen spirit.
- Taste and adjust sweetness or spice if needed, then pour into mugs and serve immediately.
Notes
Do not boil the dairy to prevent scalding. Ensure chocolate is finely chopped for smooth melting. If the mixture is too thick, add a splash of milk. For a non-alcoholic version, omit the spirit and add a drop more vanilla or cinnamon.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mug (approx. 12-16
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 30
- Sodium: 120
- Fat: 32
- Saturated Fat: 19
- Carbohydrates: 35
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 6
Keywords: pumpkin spice hot chocolate, spiked hot chocolate, holiday drinks, bourbon hot chocolate, cozy winter recipes, pumpkin spice latte alternative