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- 4 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy) - 1 cup canned pumpkin puree - 1/2 cup pure maple syrup - 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice - Pinch of salt - Whipped cream for serving - Ground cinnamon or nutmeg for garnish When I make Maple Pumpkin Hot Cocoa, I love using simple, fresh ingredients. First, I choose my milk. You can use dairy milk or go for non-dairy options like almond, oat, or coconut milk. Each brings a unique taste to the drink. Next, I add one cup of canned pumpkin puree. This gives the cocoa a rich flavor and creamy texture. The pumpkin also adds nutrients, making it a cozy treat that's good for you. For sweetness, I pour in half a cup of pure maple syrup. This syrup adds a natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with pumpkin and cocoa. I always use pure maple syrup for the best taste. I then add a quarter cup of unsweetened cocoa powder. It’s important to choose high-quality cocoa for the best flavor. To deepen the taste, I include one teaspoon of vanilla extract. This adds a warm and sweet note. Then, I mix in one teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice. This blend includes cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice, giving the drink its seasonal vibe. Finally, I add a pinch of salt. This tiny amount helps to enhance all the flavors. When it’s time to serve, I top each mug with whipped cream. I also sprinkle ground cinnamon or nutmeg on top for a lovely finish. This drink is a true cozy delight, perfect for chilly days! - Start by pouring 4 cups of milk into your slow cooker. You can use dairy milk or a non-dairy option like almond or oat milk. - Next, add 1 cup of canned pumpkin puree. This gives your cocoa that rich fall flavor. - Pour in 1/2 cup of pure maple syrup for natural sweetness. - Add 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder. Choose a high-quality cocoa for the best taste. - Mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to deepen the flavor. - Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice for a warm, cozy touch. - Finally, add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. - Use a whisk to blend all the ingredients until smooth and uniform. Make sure there are no lumps. - Cover your slow cooker with the lid. Set it to low heat. - Allow the mixture to simmer for 2 hours. Stir it every 30 minutes. This helps keep everything mixed and prevents sticking. - After 2 hours, taste your hot cocoa. If you want it sweeter, stir in more maple syrup to your liking. - When it’s ready, ladle the hot cocoa into your favorite mugs. - Top each mug with a generous swirl of whipped cream. - For a fun finish, dust each serving with a little ground cinnamon or nutmeg. Enjoy! Stirring is key to a great hot cocoa. It keeps the mixture smooth and prevents sticking. I recommend stirring every 30 minutes during cooking. This ensures that all flavors blend well. Use a whisk for mixing. It helps create a velvety texture. Whisking also breaks up any clumps in the cocoa powder. Feel free to get creative with spices! You can add more pumpkin pie spice or even a dash of cayenne for heat. Vanilla extract adds depth, but you can also try almond or hazelnut extracts. Flavored syrups like caramel or chocolate can give your cocoa a unique twist. Just stir them in slowly after cooking. Garnishing makes your hot cocoa special. Top each serving with a generous swirl of whipped cream. Add a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor. Serve on a wooden platter with cinnamon sticks or mini pumpkins beside the mugs. For snacks, soft cookies or spiced bread pair well with the drink. Enjoy your cozy delight! {{image_4}} For a dairy-free treat, use non-dairy milk. Almond, oat, or coconut milk works great. Each type brings its own flavor. For a rich taste, coconut milk shines. Almond milk is lighter and adds a nutty hint. When using non-dairy milk, adjust the sweetness. Non-dairy milks can be less sweet, so taste as you go. If you love chocolate, you can boost the cocoa. Increase the unsweetened cocoa powder to 1/2 cup. This gives a richer chocolate taste. You can also add chocolate chips. Stir in a cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips. They melt and make the drink extra creamy. You can add other fall flavors too. Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for a warm spice kick. You might also want to mix in some caramel syrup for sweetness. Adjust the sweetness based on your taste. If you prefer it sweeter, add more maple syrup. Each of these changes brings a new twist to the drink. To keep your maple pumpkin hot cocoa fresh, follow these steps: - Refrigeration: Place any leftover hot cocoa in the fridge. It stays good for about 3 to 4 days. - Storage Containers: Use an airtight container or a jar with a tight lid. This helps keep flavors in and prevents spills. You can reheat your cocoa easily. Here’s how: - Microwave: Pour your cocoa into a microwave-safe mug. Heat it for 1 to 2 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating. - Slow Cooker: If you want to use the slow cooker, pour the cocoa back in. Heat on low for about 30 minutes. Stir it every 10 minutes to keep it smooth. Tips: When reheating, taste your cocoa. You may want to add a bit more maple syrup to boost the flavor. Always stir well to keep the texture nice and creamy. Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegan. Just swap the milk for a non-dairy option. Almond, oat, or coconut milk work great. For the whipped cream, look for a vegan brand or make your own from coconut cream. Use maple syrup as your sweetener. It adds a nice flavor and keeps it natural. You can store leftover hot cocoa in the fridge for up to four days. Use an airtight container to keep it fresh. Before serving, reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Stir well after reheating to mix the flavors. Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. It offers a wonderful taste and texture. Start by roasting a small pumpkin until it’s soft. Then, scoop out the flesh and mash it. This fresh pumpkin adds depth to your hot cocoa and makes it special. This hot cocoa recipe blends milk, pumpkin, and spices for a cozy drink. You learned how to prepare it step-by-step, with tips for the best taste. Remember, stirring and customizing can elevate your cocoa. Don’t forget to try variations for different flavors, like a dairy-free version or a richer chocolate option. Enjoy your drink warm and share it with friends. You now have all the tools to create a delicious hot cocoa experience!

Maple Pumpkin Hot Cocoa Slow Cooker

Warm up this fall with a comforting Maple Pumpkin Hot Cocoa that's perfect for cozy evenings! This delightful recipe blends creamy milk, pumpkin puree, and sweet maple syrup with rich cocoa for a unique twist on a classic favorite. Top it off with whipped cream and spices for an irresistible treat. Discover how to make this easy and delicious drink that everyone will love—click through for the full recipe and enjoy a cup of autumn bliss!
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Ingredients
  

4 cups milk (choose between dairy or non-dairy options like almond, oat, or coconut milk)

1 cup canned pumpkin puree

1/2 cup pure maple syrup (for a natural sweetness)

1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably high-quality)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for depth of flavor)

1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice)

A pinch of salt (to enhance the flavors)

Whipped cream (for a delightful finishing touch)

Ground cinnamon or nutmeg (for garnish)

Instructions
 

In a slow cooker, carefully pour in the milk, ensuring it covers the bottom. Then add the pumpkin puree, maple syrup, unsweetened cocoa powder, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt.

    Use a whisk to mix all the ingredients thoroughly until the mixture is velvety and uniform, with no lumps remaining.

      Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low heat. Allow to simmer for 2 hours, stirring every 30 minutes to avoid any mixture from sticking to the sides or bottom.

        After the 2-hour mark has passed, taste the hot cocoa. If you'd like it sweeter, gradually stir in additional maple syrup until your desired sweetness is reached.

          Once heated through and flavorful, ladle the hot cocoa into your favorite mugs, filling them to your preference.

            Generously top each serving with a swirl of whipped cream and finish with a light dusting of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to elevate the experience.

              Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes | Servings: 4

                - Presentation Tips: To make it more festive, serve the mugs on a wooden platter with a few cinnamon sticks or mini pumpkins as decoration alongside the hot cocoa!