Chocolate gravy is a true southern classic staple, an old-fashioned recipe that goes perfectly with hot biscuits, pancakes, and more.

A smooth, rich, creamy, and amazingly delicious gravy that shakes things up for breakfast or brunch.

A white gravy boat filled with chocolate gravy sitting on a white plate with a white background

I was introduced to this deliciousness by my husband who used to have it made from him by his grandmother when he was a kid.

It is a super simple recipe, with only six budget-friendly ingredients, that has been around for many years and handed down for generations. You can find the roots of this dish in the Great Depression time.

If you are a chocolate lover then definitely this is one for you. It is great on waffles and pancakes but just as amazingly delicious on warm biscuits, vanilla ice cream, or whatever else you like to drizzle chocolate on.

What is southern-style chocolate gravy made of?

1 Cup Sugar
3 ½ Tbsps. Cocoa Powder
3 Tbsps All-Purpose Flour
1 ½ Cups Whole Milk (you can use 2% if you want but it tastes the best with whole)
1 Tablespoon Butter
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

Collage of ingredients for chocolate gravy

How do you make chocolate gravy from scratch?

In a medium-sized bowl, mix together your dry ingredients (white sugar, cocoa, and flour) getting rid of any lumps.

Add in your milk and whisk to combine the ingredients.

In a medium saucepan melt your tbsp. of butter on medium heat.

Once melted add in your mixed ingredients and continue stirring until thickened.

It will take approximately 5 minutes to thicken. Remove from heat and add in your teaspoon of Vanilla.

Pour over into a gravy boat for easy serving.

A white plate topped with a stack of waffles that are drizzled with chocolate gravy. The gravy boat in the background.

Why is my chocolate gravy not thickening?

Just like any gravy it won't thicken or take a long time to thicken if you add too much milk or not enough flour. If you feel you have added too much milk then add some more flour. If you added too much flour, add a bit more milk. Add and take away until you get your gravy just right.

How long does chocolate gravy last in the fridge?

Leftover chocolate gravy can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can you freeze southern chocolate gravy?

Yes, allow it to cool completely after cooking, put the gravy into an airtight container, and place it in the freezer. It will keep up to 3-4 months.

Chocolate gravy poured on top of stacked waffles and a white gravy boat set to the side.

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