Whisk cocoa, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and salt with 1/2 cup milk in a saucepan until smooth.
Pour in the remaining milk and warm over medium heat, whisking until steaming.
Whisk in pumpkin puree and simmer gently for 3–4 minutes to thicken and meld flavors.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
Divide into mugs and top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon, if desired.
Notes
Variation: Swap half the milk for strong brewed coffee for a pumpkin spice mocha. Dairy-free? Use oat or almond milk and coconut whipped cream. Leftovers keep 2 days in the fridge; reheat gently without boiling.This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Easy Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.