This spiked slow cooker pumpkin pie hot chocolate combines the flavors of creamy pumpkin, warm spices, and a hint of bourbon or spiced rum, making it the ultimate fall drink. The whipped cream topping and a sprinkle of cinnamon add the perfect finishing touch for a cozy and indulgent treat.
Perfect for chilly nights by the fire or as a signature drink at your fall gatherings, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. Whether you prefer a little or a lot of booze, this hot chocolate is customizable to your taste and guaranteed to be a seasonal favorite!
Full Recipe:
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1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
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4 cups whole milk
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1/2 cup heavy cream
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1/2 cup brown sugar
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1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
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1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/4 cup bourbon (or spiced rum for a twist)
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Whipped cream for topping
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Ground cinnamon for garnish
Directions:
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In a slow cooker, combine the pumpkin puree, whole milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until everything is well mixed.
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Set the slow cooker on low and cook for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
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After the mixture has heated and thickened, add the vanilla extract and bourbon (or spiced rum) and stir to combine.
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Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon.
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Serve hot and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 2-3 hours | Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Kcal: 325 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Pumpkin Pie Hot Chocolate with a Boozy Twist
As the crisp air of fall rolls in, there’s nothing quite like indulging in a warm, spiced drink to embrace the seasonal shift. This Spiked Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Hot Chocolate takes the classic hot chocolate to a whole new level by combining the comforting flavors of pumpkin pie with the cozy warmth of bourbon or spiced rum. It’s the ideal beverage for those chilly evenings when you want something comforting, yet indulgent, to sip on. With the help of a slow cooker, this recipe allows all the flavors to meld together, creating a rich, velvety drink that’s perfect for fall.
This spiked hot chocolate isn’t just a drink; it’s an experience. The smoothness of the pumpkin puree, the richness of the cream, and the warmth of the spices will instantly transport you to a cozy spot by the fire. Add a little splash of bourbon or spiced rum, and you have a decadent, grown-up twist that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering.
The Appeal of Spiked Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Hot Chocolate
Fall flavors are all about comfort and indulgence, and what better way to celebrate the season than with a spiked drink that combines the best of both worlds? This Spiked Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Hot Chocolate is the perfect choice for those who love pumpkin pie, but want to enjoy it in drinkable form. The slow cooker method ensures that all the ingredients are blended together in the most harmonious way, allowing the spices to infuse the drink and creating an unforgettable flavor.
The addition of alcohol might seem like an unusual choice, but it works beautifully here. The bourbon or spiced rum adds depth and warmth to the drink, bringing out the rich, earthy flavor of the pumpkin. It’s a unique twist on traditional hot chocolate that makes it perfect for holiday parties, a cozy night in, or even as a fun treat for a fall brunch. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can adjust the amount of alcohol depending on how bold you want the flavor to be, or you can leave it out entirely for a kid-friendly version that’s just as delicious.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Fall
When you think of fall, it’s impossible to overlook the popularity of pumpkin-flavored treats, and this hot chocolate is no exception. The pumpkin pie spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger—bring warmth and a touch of sweetness to the drink, making it feel like you’re sipping on a pumpkin pie in liquid form. The addition of vanilla extract and brown sugar enhances the natural sweetness of the pumpkin, creating a smooth and comforting drink that’s perfect for cold evenings.
The beauty of this Spiked Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Hot Chocolate is that it feels like a hug in a mug. The combination of creamy milk and heavy cream creates a rich and velvety base that balances perfectly with the spiced flavors. The slow cooker does all the hard work for you, allowing the drink to simmer and meld together, leaving you with a perfectly heated, deeply flavorful beverage.
A Unique Twist on Traditional Hot Chocolate
Hot chocolate is a beloved comfort drink, but this version offers a twist by infusing it with the beloved flavors of pumpkin pie. By adding bourbon or spiced rum, this recipe elevates a traditional cozy drink into something special—something that’s perfect for adults who want a little extra warmth and flavor. The alcohol brings out the deep, spicy undertones of the pumpkin while adding a rich, boozy complexity to the drink. It’s the kind of beverage that feels both familiar and exciting, offering a new take on a classic favorite.
What makes this recipe so great is the flexibility it offers. You can enjoy it as is, with bourbon or spiced rum, or skip the alcohol for a non-alcoholic option that’s just as delicious. Whether you’re sipping it alone with a good book or serving it to friends at a fall gathering, this hot chocolate will surely become a seasonal favorite.
Serving Suggestions
This Spiked Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Hot Chocolate can be served in a variety of ways to suit the occasion. For an extra touch of elegance, serve it in cute mugs, topped with a swirl of freshly whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice. You can even garnish it with a cinnamon stick for added flair. For larger gatherings, consider serving it in a slow cooker or large pot, keeping it warm for guests to serve themselves.
This drink pairs beautifully with a variety of fall treats. Try serving it alongside pumpkin bread, cinnamon rolls, or apple crisp for a dessert spread that embraces the flavors of the season. If you’re hosting a fall party or Halloween get-together, this hot chocolate will be the perfect signature drink. You can also make it a fun activity by offering different toppings like marshmallows, chocolate shavings, or caramel drizzle, so guests can customize their drinks to their liking.
Tips for the Perfect Pumpkin Pie Hot Chocolate
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Adjust the sweetness: Depending on your personal preference, you can adjust the sweetness of the drink. Add more brown sugar or even maple syrup for a richer sweetness, or reduce the sugar if you prefer a less sweet hot chocolate.
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Use dairy-free alternatives: If you’re dairy-free, substitute the whole milk and heavy cream with plant-based options like almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk. Just make sure to check that the whipped cream you use is dairy-free as well.
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Alcohol options: If you’re not a fan of bourbon or spiced rum, you can substitute with another type of liquor like whiskey or dark rum. For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the alcohol and enjoy a rich, spiced pumpkin hot chocolate.
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Make it ahead: This recipe can be easily made ahead of time and kept warm in your slow cooker for hours. It’s great for entertaining and perfect for serving a crowd. Just prepare it in advance and set the slow cooker on low, letting the flavors blend together until you’re ready to serve.
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Add extra toppings: For an even more indulgent experience, top your pumpkin pie hot chocolate with whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or even chocolate shavings. These extra touches add a fun and festive element to the drink.
Conclusion
This Spiked Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Hot Chocolate is the ultimate fall beverage that combines warmth, comfort, and a little bit of indulgence. Whether you’re enjoying it solo with a good book or sharing it with friends at a cozy fall gathering, it’s guaranteed to become a go-to drink for the season. The combination of creamy pumpkin, aromatic spices, and a boozy twist makes this drink a standout choice for anyone looking to embrace the flavors of fall. With the help of a slow cooker, it’s incredibly easy to make and perfect for any occasion. So grab your favorite mug, curl up by the fire, and enjoy the rich, comforting taste of fall in every sip!