This cozy Crockpot Pumpkin Pie White Hot Chocolate is like a warm hug in a cup! With creamy white chocolate and a hint of pumpkin spice, it’s perfect for chilly days.
I love to sip on this while snuggled up with a blanket. Just toss everything in your slow cooker, let it bubble, and enjoy! It’s a simple way to make fall feel extra special! 🍂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Milk: The base of this hot chocolate is whole milk, which gives it a rich and creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use 2% milk or a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. Just note that non-dairy alternatives may change the flavor slightly.
Heavy Cream: This adds luxurious creaminess to your drink. You could substitute it with half-and-half for a lighter version, or use coconut cream for a non-dairy twist with a hint of coconut flavor.
Canned Pumpkin Puree: Make sure to use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. If it’s out of season, you can make your own by roasting and pureeing fresh pumpkin. Alternatively, butternut squash puree works great too!
White Chocolate Chips: These are essential for that sweet, creamy flavor. If you’d like a different sweetness, you can replace them with white chocolate melts or a dairy-free alternative, although this may alter the taste.
Pumpkin Pie Spice: A blend of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger gives it that pumpkin pie flavor. If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice, you can easily mix your own using equal parts cinnamon and nutmeg, with a bit of ginger thrown in.
How Can You Make the Smoothest Hot Chocolate?
Blending is key for a smooth and frothy hot chocolate. After cooking, here are some tips:
- If using an immersion blender, be gentle to avoid splashes.
- If transferring to a blender, do it in batches and be careful–hot liquids can expand and create pressure when blended.
- For an extra frothy texture, blend for a bit longer to incorporate air into your drink.
By blending well, you’ll avoid any pumpkin lumps and achieve that cozy, comfortable cup each time!
Crockpot Pumpkin Pie White Hot Chocolate
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 12 oz white chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- Pinch of salt
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Ground nutmeg or cinnamon, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then 2 to 3 hours to cook in your crockpot. It’s perfect for setting up in the morning or early afternoon, so it’s ready to enjoy by your evening gathering or cozy night in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Base Ingredients:
In your crockpot, pour in the whole milk, heavy cream, and canned pumpkin puree. Use a whisk or a spoon to stir everything together until it’s well combined. This creates a creamy base that’s going to be rich and delicious!
2. Add Sweetness and Spice:
Next, add the white chocolate chips, granulated sugar, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the mixture. Give a nice stir to combine all the ingredients. You’ll start to see the white chocolate melt a bit as you mix!
3. Cook to Perfection:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 2 to 3 hours. Remember to stir the mixture every 30 minutes! This ensures that all ingredients meld perfectly together and prevents anything from sticking to the bottom.
4. Blend it Smooth:
Once the cooking time is up, it’s time to make it silky smooth! Use an immersion blender directly in the crockpot to blend until the mixture is smooth and frothy. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer the hot liquid to a blender in batches. Just be careful with hot liquids!
5. Serve and Garnish:
Pour the warm pumpkin white hot chocolate into mugs. Top each serving generously with whipped cream and finish it off with a sprinkle of ground nutmeg or cinnamon for that extra cozy flavor.
6. Enjoy!
Savor each sip of your warm and comforting Crockpot Pumpkin Pie White Hot Chocolate. It’s a delightful treat for any chilly day!
Can I Use Non-Dairy Milk for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole milk with almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Just remember that this may change the flavor slightly, but it will still be delicious!
What Can I Use Instead of Pumpkin Pie Spice?
If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice, you can make your own mix using a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Start with equal parts cinnamon and nutmeg, then add a little ginger for that warm spice flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring well to combine the ingredients again, as they may separate when chilled.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and keep them in the fridge. When ready to enjoy, simply combine them in the crockpot and cook on low. It’s a fantastic option for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in!
