My little brother has always been a huge fan of hot chocolate, but has never been much of a cook. Every year, during the holidays, I make him a cup of hot chocolate after dinner as he searches Netflix for a Christmas movie for us to watch. This year, my brother is dairy-free, and can't enjoy our usual classic hot cocoa recipe.

So, I decided to create a new, equally creamy and irresistible version of our Christmas tradition. This coconut milk based vegan hot chocolate makes it possible for everyone to enjoy an indulgent and cozy sip by the fire during the holidays.

Vegan Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate

  • Prep Time:5 mins
  • Cook Time:10 mins
  • Total Time:15 mins
  • Servings:2
  • Easy

    Ingredients

  • 2 cups coconut milk
  • 1/4 cup cacao powder
  • 1/4 cup pumpkin puree or pumpkin butter
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • 2-3 tablespoons maple syrup
  • Step 1

    Pour the coconut milk into a small pot and get that going on the stove at medium-low while you choose a holiday playlist.

    peanut butter
    Kate Donald
  • Step 2

    Add the cacao powder, pumpkin puree, and spices to the coconut milk and whisk it up.

    espresso, coffee
    Kate Donald
  • Step 3

    Once the mixture is almost hot enough, add the maple syrup and stir. Taste for sweetness and add more if you please.

    milk chocolate, espresso, candy, sweet, cream, coffee, milk, chocolate
    Kate Donald
  • Step 4

    Serve and enjoy!

Mix up this vegan hot chocolate concoction to close out a very busy and equally chilly day while snuggling up to a crackling fire — and yes, it still counts even if it's just Netflix for one.