If you’ve never experienced the simple joy of spooning warm, silky chocolate sauce over flaky, buttery biscuits, you’re in for a real treat! Chocolate Gravy and Biscuits is a beloved Southern breakfast classic that transforms pantry staples into a rich, nostalgic delight—perfect for cozy mornings or special gatherings. The creamy, cocoa-infused gravy seeps into tender biscuits with every bite, striking the perfect balance between sweetness and comfort. It’s more than breakfast—it’s a little slice of culinary Americana, and after one taste, you’ll see why generations have swooned over Chocolate Gravy and Biscuits.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Chocolate Gravy and Biscuits lies in its honest, straightforward ingredients. Each one is key: bringing a little structure, a burst of flavor, or a creamy touch that makes this dish truly unforgettable.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Deep, robust chocolate flavor anchors the gravy and gives it that irresistible color.
- All-purpose flour: Acts as a thickener for both biscuits and gravy, lending structure to the finished dish.
- Granulated sugar: Brings just the right level of sweetness to highlight the cocoa.
- Salt: Intensifies chocolate flavor and balances the sweetness.
- Whole milk: Forms the velvet-smooth base of the chocolate gravy—use whole milk for the richest result.
- Unsalted butter: Melted into both the biscuits and gravy for moistness and that signature, decadent finish.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and rounds out the chocolate, lifting every spoonful.
- Baking powder and baking soda: Ensure tall, fluffy biscuits each and every time.
- Cold buttermilk: Makes for impossibly tender biscuits thanks to its acidity and chill.
How to Make Chocolate Gravy and Biscuits
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 450°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep clean-up quick and ensure the biscuits don’t stick. This way, as soon as the dough is ready, the oven will be at just the right temperature for that ideal golden biscuit crust.
Step 2: Make Biscuit Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Toss in the cubed, cold unsalted butter—use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to rub the butter into the dry mix until you get coarse crumbs. Pour in the cold buttermilk and stir gently, just until everything comes together into a soft dough. Don’t overwork it; you want the biscuits to be soft and airy, not tough!
Step 3: Shape and Cut Biscuits
Lightly flour your countertop and turn the dough out. Pat it down to about 1-inch thickness, then fold it over itself 2 or 3 times for maximum flakiness. Pat it down once more, then use a round biscuit cutter (or glass) to cut out your biscuits. Place each one close together on the prepared baking sheet—this helps them rise even taller while baking.
Step 4: Bake the Biscuits
Slide your tray into the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the biscuits are beautifully golden on top and have puffed up triumphantly. While they work their magic in the oven, move on to crafting your chocolate gravy.
Step 5: Make the Chocolate Gravy
In a medium saucepan, combine the cocoa powder, flour, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Whisk together, then slowly stream in the whole milk, continuing to whisk so that the mixture is ultra-smooth (no lumps allowed!). Place the pan over medium heat, and cook, whisking constantly, until the gravy thickens and bubbles—usually about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until glossy and luscious.
Step 6: Serve Chocolate Gravy and Biscuits
Split the freshly baked biscuits in half. While they’re still hot and inviting, ladle over the shimmering chocolate gravy so it seeps into all those flaky layers. There’s nothing quite like this moment! Gather everyone around the table and serve immediately for maximum enjoyment.
How to Serve Chocolate Gravy and Biscuits
Garnishes
Elevate your Chocolate Gravy and Biscuits with a shower of fresh berries, dusting of powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream. A handful of toasted nuts or a drizzle of extra melted chocolate adds a hint of texture and elegance without overwhelming the classic flavors.
Side Dishes
Sometimes, balance is key! Pair your Chocolate Gravy and Biscuits with savory classics like crispy bacon, sausage links, or a platter of fresh fruit. This combo brings a perfect contrast and keeps the meal feeling festive yet grounded.
Creative Ways to Present
Chocolate Gravy and Biscuits aren’t just for family breakfast—they make an eye-catching brunch centerpiece too! Try making mini biscuits for a potluck or brunch buffet. Or, for a whimsical touch, serve in mason jars layered with chocolate gravy and biscuit chunks as a deconstructed Southern parfait.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra biscuits or a little bit of chocolate gravy (it’s rare, but possible!), store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Biscuits stay fresh for up to two days, while the gravy lasts about three.
Freezing
The biscuits freeze beautifully. Just let them cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to a month. For the gravy, let it cool and portion into a freezer-safe bag—it may thicken when thawed, but a gentle reheat will bring it right back to life.
Reheating
To revive biscuits, warm them in a low oven (about 300°F) until heated through. For chocolate gravy, gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of milk if it seems thick. Avoid microwaving the gravy, as it can separate or scorch.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Breakfast
Absolutely! Whole milk is classic, but half-and-half brings extra richness, and plant-based milks will work in a pinch. Oat or almond milk keeps the gravy creamy if you’re dairy-free—just expect subtle changes in flavor and texture.
Why are my biscuits dense instead of fluffy?
Fluffy biscuits start with cold ingredients and a gentle touch. Make sure your butter and buttermilk are chilled, and don’t overmix your dough. Overworking activates gluten and makes the biscuits tough rather than tender.
How do I prevent lumps in my chocolate gravy?
Whisk, whisk, whisk! Add the milk slowly while whisking constantly to keep the mixture smooth. Cooking the mixture over medium heat also helps prevent scorching and ensures the thickening is gradual and consistent.
Can I make Chocolate Gravy and Biscuits gluten-free?
Yes, you can! Swap the all-purpose flour in both the biscuits and gravy for a good-quality gluten-free blend. Just check that your blend contains a binder like xanthan gum, or your biscuits may not rise as beautifully.
What other flavor twists can I try?
If you want to get creative, add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne to the gravy for warmth or gentle heat. Orange zest, espresso powder, or even a splash of bourbon whisked into the gravy can make Chocolate Gravy and Biscuits feel truly special and tailored to your tastes.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about Chocolate Gravy and Biscuits that brings people together with big smiles. It’s a recipe that invites you to slow down, savor something sweet, and maybe even start a new breakfast tradition. I hope you’ll give it a try—your mornings are about to get a whole lot more delicious!
Print
Chocolate Gravy and Biscuits Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking/Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this delightful recipe for Chocolate Gravy and Biscuits. Perfect for a cozy Southern-style breakfast, these fluffy biscuits smothered in rich chocolate gravy will warm your soul.
Ingredients
For the chocolate gravy:
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the biscuits:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter (cubed)
- 3/4 cup cold buttermilk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 450°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the biscuits: In a large bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until it resembles coarse crumbs. Add buttermilk, form a dough, pat to 1-inch thickness, and cut out biscuits. Bake for 12–14 minutes.
- Make the chocolate gravy: In a saucepan, whisk cocoa powder, flour, sugar, and salt. Cook with milk until thickened. Remove from heat, add butter and vanilla.
- Assemble: Split warm biscuits and top with chocolate gravy. Serve hot.
Notes
- For a richer gravy, use half-and-half instead of milk.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon for a cozy twist.
- Leftover gravy can be reheated gently on the stovetop.
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