Indulge in the delightful flavors of fall with this delicious, soul-warming pumpkin spice white hot chocolate. There’s just something about the combination of rich white chocolate, pumpkin, and warm spices that instantly makes you feel all snuggly and cozy. It’s the perfect treat to enjoy this season. Trust me, once you take your first sip, you’ll be hooked!
Why Pumpkin Spice White Hot Chocolate?
My daughter and I recently discovered an eclectic little coffee and tea shop near our home that we never noticed before, since they don’t do any marketing. On their menu was a drink similar to the traditional pumpkin spice latte, but instead of using coffee, they made it with sweetened milk. Oh. My. Goodness. Me.
About a week later, we went again but they were closed. We weren’t having all that, so we decided to make our own version of it at home. And let me tell you, it was an absolute success. I’ll continue to support their business and their other amazing creations, but we prefer our version of this delicious drink.
If you love pumpkin spice but are craving something different from the usual pumpkin spice latte, you’ll need to try this pumpkin spice white hot chocolate!
Essential Ingredients for Pumpkin Spice White Hot Chocolate
The ingredients and instructions listed here are for a single serving, but you can adjust the recipe to make multiple servings if you’d like. You can also find the recipe card below for easy reference.
1 Cup milk of choice – I recommend whole milk for its extra creaminess, but feel free to use any milk you like—almond, oat, or coconut milk all work well if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
1 Tbsp white chocolate sauce or white chocolate chips/morsels – This is the creamy, sweet foundation of the drink. The white chocolate brings a luscious richness that balances the spices. We prefer the white chocolate sauce from Torani, but use what you like.
3 Tbsp pumpkin puree – Not pumpkin pie filling, but pure pumpkin puree. This adds a deliciously earthy, natural pumpkin flavor to the drink, and also gives it a creamy texture.
2 Tsp maple syrup – This adds a layer of natural sweetness and a hint of fall flavor that complements the pumpkin spice perfectly.
1/8 Tsp pumpkin pie spice – A fragrant blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. This spice mix gives the hot chocolate that classic fall flavor and aroma.
1/8 Tsp vanilla extract – Just a bit adds warmth and elevates the drink.
Whipped cream (optional, for topping) – Whipped cream takes this drink to the next level of indulgence! I highly recommend it.
Ground cinnamon or nutmeg (optional, for garnish) – Sprinkle a little cinnamon or nutmeg on top to add warmth and a decorative touch.
How to Make Pumpkin Spice White Hot Chocolate
Step 1: Heat the Milk
Begin by gently warming your milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally to avoid scorching. You’ll want the milk to be hot but not boiling.
Step 2: Add the White Chocolate
Once the milk is warmed, add in the white chocolate sauce or white chocolate chips. Stir until the chocolate is fully melted and incorporated.
Step 3: Add Pumpkin and Spices
Add in the pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well mixed and heated through.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
Give the white hot chocolate a taste, and if you want it sweeter, add more maple syrup or white chocolate to your liking. If you prefer it less sweet, add more milk.
Step 5: Serve
Pour into your favorite mug. If you’re feeling a little extra, top with a swirl of whipped cream and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or nutmeg. Enjoy!
Creative Twists and Variations
While this pumpkin spice white hot chocolate is delicious on its own, there are several ways to customize it to add a unique twist:
Add Espresso: Turn your white hot chocolate into a white hot mocha by adding a shot of espresso.
Garnish Extravagantly: Go beyond whipped cream by adding caramel drizzle, white chocolate shavings, or even a cinnamon stick for stirring.
Toasted Marshmallows: Top with toasted marshmallows instead of whipped cream for a campfire-like vibe.
Spiked Version: For an adult treat, add a splash of bourbon, spiced rum, or Irish cream.
Pumpkin Spice Ice Cream Float: Drop a scoop of vanilla ice cream into your white hot chocolate for a decadent, creamy dessert.
Final Thoughts
This pumpkin spice white hot chocolate is the ultimate cozy drink for any fall day. It’s rich, creamy, and full of comforting fall flavors. Whether you stick with the original recipe or try one of the creative twists, you’ll end up with a tasty treat that’s perfect for the season. So, grab your favorite mug, get comfy, and enjoy this delicious drink that’s sure to become a go-to fall favorite!
Other Recipes you Might Like
Pumpkin Spice White Hot Chocolate Recipe
LisaEquipment
- Small saucepan
- Spoon
- Mug
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole milk (almond, oat, or coconut milk also work well)
- 1 tbsp white chocolate sauce or white chocolate chips/morsels (I prefer white chocolate sauce from Torani, but use what you like)
- 3 tbsp pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 2 tsp maple syrup
- 1/8 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/8 tsp vanilla extract
- Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
- Ground cinnamon or nutmeg (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Begin by gently warming your milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally to avoid scorching. You’ll want the milk to be hot but not boiling.
- Once the milk is warmed, add in the white chocolate sauce or white chocolate chips. Stir until the chocolate is fully melted and incorporated.
- Add in the pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well mixed and heated through.
- Give your white hot chocolate a taste, and if you want it sweeter, add more maple syrup or white chocolate to your liking. If you prefer it less sweet, add more milk.
- Pour into your favorite mug. If you’re feeling a little extra, top with a swirl of whipped cream and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or nutmeg. Enjoy!