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Cozy Brown Butter Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate

cozy brown butter pumpkin spice hot chocolate - featured image

A rich and comforting hot chocolate made with nutty brown butter, pumpkin puree, and warm spices. This easy 15-minute recipe is perfect for cozy fall nights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (60% cacao)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional toppings: whipped cream, pumpkin pie spice, chocolate shavings, cinnamon stick

Instructions

  1. Brown the butter: Place 3 tablespoons unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Swirl occasionally as it melts. After 3-4 minutes, when the butter foams, subsides, and turns golden brown with a nutty aroma, remove from heat.
  2. Add milk and cream: Slowly pour in 2 cups whole milk and 1/2 cup heavy cream while whisking constantly. Return to medium heat.
  3. Whisk in pumpkin and spices: Add 1/4 cup pumpkin puree, 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until fully incorporated, about 30 seconds.
  4. Add chocolate and sugar: Stir in 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips and 2 tablespoons brown sugar. Whisk gently until chocolate is melted and mixture is smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
  5. Finish with vanilla: Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice as desired.
  6. Serve immediately: Pour into mugs. Top with whipped cream, a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice, and chocolate shavings if desired.

Notes

Don’t rush the brown butterโ€”watch for a nutty aroma and golden-brown color. Use room-temperature milk for best results. Taste before serving to adjust sweetness or spice. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin spice hot chocolate, brown butter hot chocolate, fall drink, cozy hot chocolate, pumpkin hot chocolate