Classic Southern Chocolate Gravy

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s incredibly quick and easy to make, but delivers such deep, decadent flavor. It’s made with pantry staples and comes together in one saucepan, which means minimal cleanup and maximum enjoyment. Whether I serve it over fluffy biscuits for a classic Southern breakfast or pour it on waffles and fresh fruit, this chocolate gravy brings instant joy.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup sugar
1/4 cup Hershey’s Cocoa Powder
2 cups milk
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 tablespoon softened butter

Directions

1. I start by whisking together the sugar, cocoa powder, and flour in a mixing bowl until well combined.

2. I slowly add the milk while whisking, making sure the mixture stays smooth with no lumps.

3. I pour the mixture into a medium saucepan and place it over medium-high heat, stirring frequently as it begins to warm up.

4. Once it starts to boil, I reduce the heat to medium and keep stirring for about 5 minutes, until the gravy thickens to my desired consistency.

5. I remove it from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and softened butter. I mix until the butter melts completely and the gravy is glossy and smooth.

6. I serve it warm over hot biscuits, pancakes, or waffles for a sweet, Southern-style treat.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6 servings.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Calories per serving: 150 kcal

Variations

Sometimes I swap the milk for half-and-half or evaporated milk for a richer sauce. I’ve added a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder for depth, or stirred in a touch of peanut butter at the end for a nutty twist. For a thicker gravy, I let it simmer a few extra minutes, and if I want it thinner, I just add a splash more milk before serving.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover chocolate gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When I’m ready to reheat it, I warm it in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in a little extra milk to bring back the smooth consistency.

FAQs

What’s the best way to serve chocolate gravy?

I love it over fresh-baked biscuits, but it’s also fantastic on pancakes, waffles, French toast, or even vanilla ice cream.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes. I use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk and a dairy-free butter substitute—it still comes out smooth and flavorful.

Does this recipe need to be refrigerated?

Yes. I refrigerate any leftovers to keep them fresh, and I reheat as needed.

Can I use a different cocoa powder?

Definitely. I’ve used Dutch-process cocoa for a deeper flavor. Just make sure it’s unsweetened.

Is this meant to be a dessert or breakfast?

Traditionally, it’s a Southern breakfast treat, but I’ve served it as a dessert sauce too—it works both ways.

Conclusion

Classic Southern Chocolate Gravy is one of those timeless recipes I never get tired of making. It’s quick, comforting, and filled with rich chocolate flavor that elevates any morning. Whether I’m pouring it over warm biscuits or adding it to a weekend brunch table, this sweet gravy always feels like a little Southern hug in every spoonful.