Southern Chocolate Gravy
If you’ve never heard of Southern Chocolate Gravy, you’re in for a treat! This rich, velvety sauce is a decadent way to turn breakfast—or any meal—into a dessert-worthy experience. Served warm over buttery biscuits, pancakes, or waffles, chocolate gravy is a cherished Southern tradition that feels both nostalgic and indulgent.
What is Chocolate Gravy?
Chocolate gravy isn’t your typical savory sauce—it’s a luscious, cocoa-infused concoction that balances sweetness with just a touch of salt. Perfectly smooth and luxurious, it’s like a cross between hot fudge and custard. Southerners have been passing down this family recipe for generations, making it a must-try for anyone looking to add a little sweetness to their morning routine.
Ingredients for Southern Chocolate Gravy
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 3/4 cup boiling water
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Chocolate Gravy
- Start with the Butter:
Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. - Create a Roux:
Whisk in the flour until smooth, and continue to whisk until it browns slightly. This step adds a subtle depth to the gravy. - Sweeten and Flavor:
Stir in the sugar, salt, and cocoa powder. Mix quickly to prevent burning. - Add Liquid Ingredients:
Slowly pour in the boiling water while whisking continuously until smooth. Follow with the milk, continuing to whisk to avoid lumps. - Thicken the Gravy:
Heat the mixture, whisking frequently, until it just begins to thicken. Avoid letting it boil, as this can affect the texture. When the gravy feels slightly thickened or you see a few bubbles, remove it from the heat. - Finish with Vanilla:
Stir in the vanilla extract for a hint of warmth and depth. - Serve Warm:
Allow the gravy to cool slightly—it will thicken more as it cools. Serve poured over warm biscuits, pancakes, waffles, or even ice cream!
Tips for the Perfect Chocolate Gravy
- Whisk Continuously: To ensure a smooth and lump-free texture, keep the whisk moving as you combine ingredients.
- Don’t Overcook: Chocolate gravy thickens quickly. Once it reaches the desired consistency, remove it from the heat to avoid over-thickening.
- Double It: This recipe is so delicious that you’ll want extra—consider doubling the batch for larger gatherings.
Why You’ll Love Chocolate Gravy
Southern Chocolate Gravy is more than just a recipe—it’s an experience. It’s perfect for:
- Family Breakfasts: Elevate a weekend brunch with this sweet addition.
- Special Occasions: Add a Southern twist to your holiday mornings or celebrations.
- Comfort Food Moments: Need a pick-me-up? Chocolate gravy served over a warm biscuit is like a hug in a bowl.
Serving Suggestions
While biscuits are the classic pairing for chocolate gravy, you can also drizzle it over:
- Pancakes or waffles
- Toast or crepes
- Ice cream or pound cake for dessert
Wrap-Up
If you’re looking for a unique, crowd-pleasing treat, Southern Chocolate Gravy is the answer. Its rich flavor, smooth texture, and versatility make it an unforgettable addition to your recipe repertoire.
So grab your whisk, whip up a batch, and savor the sweet tradition of Southern comfort food—one delicious bite at a time. 🍫🥞
Southern Chocolate Gravy
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and continue whisking until it browns just a little.
- Add sugar and salt. Stir it quickly so it doesn’t burn or scorch.
- Add cocoa powder and stir.
- Add the boiling water and whisk continually until smooth.
- Add the milk and whisk again.
- Let the sauce get hot, but don’t let it boil (unlike pudding). Keep whisking until it just starts to thicken. When you feel it getting thicker, or see just a few bubbles, remove it from the heat.
- Add the vanilla and stir to combine.
- Let it cool just a bit (sauce will continue to thicken as it cools).
- Pour the chocolate gravy over the top of the biscuit, pancakes, waffles, or eat by the spoonful.