Chocolate Gravy Recipe

Indulgent Southern Chocolate Gravy Recipe for Sweet Mornings

Southern kitchens buzz with excitement when chocolate gravy appears on breakfast tables, promising a decadent twist to morning meals.

Generations have whispered about this magical concoction passed down through family traditions.

Warm, velvety chocolate drizzled over fresh biscuits creates an irresistible comfort that speaks directly to your soul.

Rich and indulgent, this recipe brings pure joy to any gathering.

Unexpected yet deeply satisfying, chocolate gravy transforms ordinary mornings into extraordinary memories.

Creamy chocolate goodness awaits you, inviting culinary adventure with every delicious spoonful.

Prepare to savor a classic Southern treat that will make your taste buds dance with delight.

Chocolate Gravy: Sweet Southern Comfort in a Bowl

  • Savor Southern Comfort: Dive into a nostalgic Southern classic that brings warmth and joy to your breakfast table with its rich, chocolatey goodness.
  • Master Simple Cooking: Create this delightful treat with just a few basic pantry ingredients and minimal cooking skills, making it perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Breakfast Twist: Transform ordinary biscuits into an extraordinary morning delight that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds, making it ideal for family gatherings and weekend brunches.
  • Quick Chocolate Indulgence: Prepare a decadent chocolate sauce in minutes, satisfying sweet cravings without complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.

Ingredients for Chocolate Gravy Southern Comfort

For the Base:
  • Sugar: A key sweetener that helps create the rich, dessert-like flavor of the chocolate gravy.
  • Flour: Provides thickness and helps bind the ingredients together for a smooth texture.
  • Cocoa Powder: Delivers the deep chocolate taste that makes this gravy special.
For the Liquid:
  • Water: Helps dissolve and blend the dry ingredients smoothly.
  • Milk: Adds creaminess and helps create a silky, luxurious consistency.
For the Flavor Enhancer:
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds a subtle depth and rounds out the chocolate flavor with its warm, aromatic notes.

How to Make Classic Chocolate Gravy

Step 1: Blend Dry Ingredients

In a spacious skillet, thoroughly combine the sugar, flour, and cocoa powder. Whisk these ingredients together until they are evenly mixed and no clumps remain.

Step 2: Create Smooth Liquid Base

Slowly pour water into the dry mixture, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Gently stir until the ingredients transform into a silky, uniform liquid.

Step 3: Cook and Thicken Gravy

Add milk to the skillet and set the heat to medium. Stir the mixture constantly with a whisk or wooden spoon.

Continue cooking and stirring until the gravy reaches a rich, creamy consistency that coats the back of a spoon.

Step 4: Enhance Flavor Profile

While the gravy is still simmering, introduce a splash of vanilla extract.

This will add a deep, aromatic note that elevates the overall taste of the chocolate gravy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the hot chocolate gravy directly over freshly baked, warm biscuits generously spread with butter.

The contrast between the warm, soft biscuits and the decadent chocolate sauce creates a memorable Southern comfort food experience.

Tips for Silky Chocolate Gravy Every Time

  • Whisk dry ingredients thoroughly before adding liquid to ensure a smooth, lump-free chocolate gravy.
  • Adjust cooking time and heat to achieve your preferred consistency, stirring continuously for even texture.
  • Experiment with a splash of coffee or dash of cinnamon to deepen the chocolate's rich taste profile.
  • Refrigerate leftover chocolate gravy in an airtight container for up to 3 days, gently reheating with a splash of milk.
  • Substitute dairy milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk for a plant-based version of this classic Southern treat.

Variations on Southern Chocolate Gravy

  • Mocha Magic: Infuse coffee grounds into the dry mixture for a rich, caffeinated chocolate gravy that pairs perfectly with morning pastries.
  • Spiced Chocolate Charm: Sprinkle ground cinnamon and a pinch of cayenne pepper into the mixture for a warm, complex flavor profile that adds depth to the traditional recipe.
  • Nutty Chocolate Comfort: Stir in finely chopped toasted almonds or pecans during the cooking process to introduce a delightful crunch and nutty undertone.
  • Mexican Chocolate Splash: Mix in a dash of ground ancho chili and a hint of ground cloves to create a bold, slightly spicy version reminiscent of traditional Mexican hot chocolate.

What to Pair with Chocolate Gravy

  • Pair Warm Buttery Biscuits: Chocolate gravy's rich, velvety texture perfectly complements freshly baked, warm buttermilk biscuits with a golden, flaky crust.
  • Sip Creamy Coffee Companion: A robust, smooth coffee with a splash of cream balances the sweetness of chocolate gravy, creating a delightful morning indulgence.
  • Enhance with Fresh Berries: Scatter fresh strawberries or raspberries around the biscuits to add a tart, bright contrast to the deep chocolate flavor.
  • Drizzle Whipped Cream Topping: A light, airy dollop of homemade whipped cream adds a luxurious touch and provides a cool, creamy counterpoint to the warm chocolate gravy.

Proper Storage for Chocolate Gravy

Store leftover chocolate gravy in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Cover the surface with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming.

Transfer cooled gravy to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion. Seal tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Warm gently over low heat, whisking frequently to restore smooth consistency. Add a splash of milk if the gravy seems too thick.

Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to ensure even warming and prevent scorching.

FAQs

  • What exactly is chocolate gravy?

A rich, sweet sauce traditionally served in Southern United States cuisine, made with cocoa, sugar, and milk, typically poured over warm biscuits as a breakfast or dessert treat.

  • Is chocolate gravy similar to hot chocolate?

No, chocolate gravy is much thicker and meant to be a sauce or topping, while hot chocolate is a drinkable beverage with a thinner consistency.

  • Can I make chocolate gravy without cocoa powder?

While cocoa powder is essential for authentic flavor, you could substitute with melted chocolate, though the texture and taste will be slightly different from traditional Southern-style chocolate gravy.

  • How long can chocolate gravy stay fresh?

Chocolate gravy is best served immediately but can be refrigerated for 2-3 days. Reheat gently, stirring frequently to prevent scorching or separation.

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Chocolate Gravy Recipe

Chocolate Gravy Recipe


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4.5 from 23 reviews

  • Total Time: 12 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Southern charm meets indulgent comfort in this chocolate gravy recipe, perfect for breakfast lovers seeking a rich, velvety morning treat. Drizzled over warm biscuits, this silky Southern classic promises a delightful culinary experience you’ll savor with every luxurious spoonful.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 1 1/2 cups milk
  • 1/2 cup water

Dry Ingredients:

  • 2 1/2 tablespoons flour
  • 2 1/2 tablespoons cocoa

Flavoring:

  • A few drops of vanilla (optional)

Instructions

  1. Whisk together dry ingredients – sugar, flour, and cocoa powder – in a spacious skillet, ensuring even distribution and preventing lumps.
  2. Slowly introduce water into the mixture, stirring methodically to create a smooth, lump-free base.
  3. Pour milk into the skillet, maintaining medium heat and continuously stirring to prevent scorching or settling.
  4. Maintain constant motion while cooking, allowing the mixture to gradually transform and thicken, approximately 5-7 minutes.
  5. As the gravy reaches a rich, velvety consistency, remove from heat and incorporate vanilla extract for enhanced depth of flavor.
  6. Transfer the silky chocolate gravy immediately to a serving vessel, ensuring warmth and optimal texture.
  7. Generously drizzle the decadent sauce over freshly buttered, warm biscuits, creating a luxurious Southern-style breakfast indulgence.

Notes

  • Adjust sugar levels to match your sweetness preference, keeping the balance between cocoa and sweetness.
  • Whisk ingredients thoroughly to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth, silky texture during cooking.
  • Consider using alternative milk options like almond or oat milk for dairy-free variations that maintain rich flavor.
  • Experiment with different biscuit types, from classic buttermilk to whole wheat, to find your perfect chocolate gravy pairing.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 7 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Desserts
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Southern American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 98 kcal
  • Sugar: 20 g
  • Sodium: 7 mg
  • Fat: 0.3 g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0.1 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 23 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 5 mg
Ethan Caldwell

Ethan Caldwell

Founder & Culinary Innovator

Expertise

Farm-to-table cooking, Seasonal recipe creation, Culinary storytelling, Food photography and styling​

Education

The Chef’s Academy (Indianapolis, IN)

  • Program: Associate Degree in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Focused on sustainable cooking practices, regional American cuisine, and recipe development.​

Ethan didn’t just fall in love with food, he grew into it, surrounded by fields, farmers’ markets, and family meals that told a story.
After sharpening his skills at The Chef’s Academy, he took his passion straight into the farm-to-table movement, working side-by-side with local growers and seasonal flavors.
He believes every recipe should feel like a walk through a summer market: colorful, fresh, and full of possibility.
Outside the kitchen, Ethan’s idea of a perfect day is hiking mountain trails, digging into heirloom vegetables, and hosting casual dinners where seconds are always encouraged.

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