Ready in: 30 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Stovetop · Storage: Up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Quick Answer
Indulge in a warm, creamy Pumpkin Pie White Hot Chocolate that encapsulates the essence of fall with every sip.
As autumn sweeps through New York City, there's a magical transition in the air that brings with it the sweet and spicy aromas of pumpkin pie. With Thanksgiving and Christmas just around the corner, I find myself craving cozy drinks that encapsulate the season - and what better way to celebrate than with a soul-soothing mug of Pumpkin Pie White Hot Chocolate? This delightful concoction perfectly captures the essence of fall, wrapping you in a warm, comforting embrace that's reminiscent of family gatherings and holiday cheer.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Captures the essence of fall with every sip.
- Rich and creamy texture that feels like a warm hug.
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy holiday gatherings.
- Customizable with options for vegan and adult versions.
- Great for making lasting memories with family and friends.
Ingredients
To create your Pumpkin Pie White Hot Chocolate, you'll need the following ingredients:
For the Hot Chocolate
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup white chocolate chips (Ghirardelli preferred)
- ½ cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- A pinch of salt
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Additional pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon, for garnish
How to Make Pumpkin Pie White Hot Chocolate (Step-by-Step)
Enjoy a warm and cozy drink with this simple recipe for Pumpkin Pie White Hot Chocolate:
Step 1: Heat the Milk and Cream
In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Place it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until you start to see steam rising. Be patient; you want to avoid boiling, as doing so could scorch the milk.
Step 2: Melt the White Chocolate
Once the liquid is steaming, reduce the heat to low and add in the white chocolate chips. Stir continuously until they melt and blend smoothly into the mixture, filling your kitchen with the sweet aroma of chocolate.
Step 3: Incorporate Pumpkin
Whisk in the pumpkin puree, ensuring to blend it thoroughly without leaving any lumps. The pumpkin will deepen the drink's color while enhancing its autumn flavor.
Step 4: Season the Mixture
Add in the vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt. The nutty warmth of the spice elevates the comforting qualities of your hot chocolate.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Pour the Pumpkin Pie White Hot Chocolate into your favorite mugs and top with a generous dollop of whipped cream. Finish with a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice or a dash of cinnamon for the perfect touch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the whisking: Make sure to whisk the pumpkin thoroughly; lumps can ruin the creamy texture.
- Overheating the milk: Avoid boiling the milk and cream; overheating can lead to an undesirable texture.
- Using pumpkin pie filling: Stick to plain pumpkin puree for the best flavor and consistency.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of bourbon or spiced rum for adult gatherings.
- You can substitute the white chocolate with dark chocolate for a new twist, though it will create a different flavor profile.
- To make it vegan, substitute the dairy with almond milk and coconut cream and use vegan white chocolate chips.
Variations
- Swap out white chocolate for dark chocolate.
- Add a splash of vanilla extract or caramel syrup for added sweetness.
- Incorporate a touch of nutmeg for additional spice.
- Use oat milk for a different non-dairy option.
How to Serve
- Pour into your favorite mugs and top with whipped cream.
- Dust the top with pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon for a finishing touch.
- Serve with gingerbread cookies or cinnamon sticks for dipping.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the hot chocolate base in advance, store it in the fridge, and reheat when ready to serve.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring to restore creamy texture.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as reheating may alter the texture of the ingredients.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Through my many rounds of testing, I've discovered that the key to a luscious Pumpkin Pie White Hot Chocolate lies in the balancing act between the rich white chocolate and the savory warmth of the spices. This recipe isn't just a drink; it's a nostalgic hug in a mug that brings the joy of the fall season right to your kitchen.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 cup
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~350 calories · 5g protein · 40g carbs · 20g fat
Recipe by:
Creamy Pumpkin Pie White Hot Chocolate
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Place it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until you start to see steam rising.
- Once the liquid is steaming, reduce the heat to low and add in the white chocolate chips. Stir continuously until they melt and blend smoothly into the mixture.
- Whisk in the pumpkin puree, ensuring to blend it thoroughly without leaving any lumps.
- Add in the vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt.
- Pour the Pumpkin Pie White Hot Chocolate into your favorite mugs and top with a generous dollop of whipped cream. Finish with a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice or a dash of cinnamon.
Notes
FAQs
Can I use a different type of milk for this recipe?
Yes, you can use alternative milk such as almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. Just keep in mind that this may alter the flavor and creaminess of the hot chocolate.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make the Pumpkin Pie White Hot Chocolate dairy-free, substitute the whole milk with a non-dairy milk like almond or coconut milk, and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Additionally, opt for vegan white chocolate chips.
How can I store leftover Pumpkin Pie White Hot Chocolate?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring to restore its creamy texture.
