Imagine waking up to the smell of warm biscuits and rich chocolate gravy—pure bliss! This Southern classic has been a breakfast favorite for generations, and today, we’re giving it a modern twist. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the dish, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

The Story Behind This Comfort Food

Chocolate gravy and biscuits is a dish steeped in Southern tradition. Originating in the Appalachian region, it was once a special treat made with cocoa powder and sugar—luxuries at the time. Over the years, it became a beloved breakfast staple, often served on Sundays or special occasions.

But let’s face it: traditional recipes can sometimes feel a little heavy. That’s why we’ve lightened things up with a few modern tweaks. Think fluffy biscuits made with almond milk and a silky chocolate gravy sweetened just right. It’s the same comforting dish you love, but with a fresh, approachable twist.

Fun Fact: Some say chocolate gravy was inspired by Mexican chocolate sauces, while others believe it was a creative way to make breakfast more exciting during tough times. Either way, it’s a testament to the resourcefulness and creativity of Southern cooks.

For more kid-friendly ideas, check out our Chocolate Ganache Brownies, which are perfect for little ones.

What Makes This homemade biscuits

So, what sets this recipe apart? Here’s the scoop:

• Healthier Swaps: We’ve used almond milk and coconut oil to make this dish a little lighter without sacrificing flavor.
• Perfect Texture: Cornstarch in the gravy ensures it’s smooth and velvety every time.
• Versatility: Serve it for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert—it’s that versatile!

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is designed to be foolproof and fun.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this modern take on chocolate gravy and biscuits:

For the Biscuits:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon honey (for a touch of sweetness)
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold butter, cubed
• 3/4 cup cold almond milk (or regular milk)

For the Chocolate Gravy:

• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for a smoother texture)
• 2 cups oat milk (or whole milk)
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil (or butter)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of sea salt

Substitutions:

• For a vegan version, use plant-based milk and coconut oil.
• For gluten-free biscuits, swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

Step-by-Step Instructions

For the Biscuits:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures your biscuits bake evenly and rise beautifully.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. If you’re adding honey for sweetness, you can mix it in with the wet ingredients later.
3. Cut in the Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The key here is to keep the butter cold—this creates those flaky layers we all love.
4. Add the Milk: Slowly pour in the cold almond milk, stirring gently with a fork until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix; a shaggy dough is perfectly fine.
5. Shape the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently pat it into a 1-inch thick rectangle. Fold the dough into thirds (like a letter), then roll it out again to 1-inch thickness. This folding technique creates extra layers for flaky biscuits.
6. Cut the Biscuits: Use a round biscuit cutter (or a glass) to cut out biscuits. Press straight down—don’t twist! Twisting seals the edges and prevents them from rising.
7. Bake to Perfection: Place the biscuits on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving a little space between them. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

For the chocolate sauce:

1. Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cocoa powder, and cornstarch. This ensures there are no lumps and the gravy thickens evenly.
2. Add the Milk: Gradually pour in the oat milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Keep whisking until everything is smooth and well combined.
3. Cook Over Medium Heat: Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Be patient—it’ll start to thicken as it heats up.
4. Finish with Butter and Vanilla: Once the gravy is thick and bubbly, remove it from the heat. Stir in the coconut oil, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt. The butter adds richness, and the vanilla rounds out the flavors.

Pro Tip: If your gravy is too thick, whisk in a splash of milk. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer.

Creative Serving Ideas

This dish is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways to enjoy it:

• Classic Style: Serve with a glass of cold milk for a traditional Southern breakfast.
• Fancy Twist: Add a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries for a brunch-worthy presentation.
• Dessert Mode: Pair with vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.

Personal Anecdote: The first time I made this dish, my family was skeptical. But one bite in, and they were hooked! Now, it’s a weekend tradition in our house.

FAQs About Chocolate Gravy and Biscuits

What is the history of chocolate gravy?

Chocolate gravy has its roots in Southern cuisine, particularly in the Appalachian region. It was originally a special treat made with cocoa powder and sugar, which were considered luxuries at the time. Over the years, it became a beloved breakfast tradition, often served on Sundays or special occasions.

What is biscuits and gravy in America?

Biscuits and gravy is a classic American dish, especially popular in the South. It typically consists of fluffy biscuits smothered in a creamy, savory gravy made from sausage drippings, flour, and milk. Chocolate gravy is a sweet twist on this traditional dish.

What goes with biscuits and gravy?

Biscuits and gravy can be paired with a variety of sides. For savory versions, try scrambled eggs, bacon, or hash browns. For sweet versions like chocolate gravy, fresh berries, whipped cream, or a glass of cold milk are perfect complements.

What is the story behind biscuits and gravy?

Biscuits and gravy originated in the Southern United States as a hearty, affordable meal for farmers and laborers. It was a practical way to use simple ingredients like flour, milk, and meat drippings to create a filling and flavorful dish.

What country is known for gravy?

Gravy is a staple in many cuisines, but it’s particularly associated with the United States, especially in Southern cooking. However, similar sauces and gravies are found worldwide, like the French “sauce” or the British “brown gravy.”

Where did chocolate biscuits come from?

Chocolate biscuits, or cookies, have their origins in Europe, particularly in countries like England and Germany. However, the combination of chocolate gravy and biscuits is a uniquely Southern American creation, blending European baking traditions with local ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This modern take on chocolate gravy and biscuits is easy, delicious, and customizable. It’s perfect for special occasions, lazy weekends, or anytime you’re craving a little Southern comfort. Plus, it’s a fun way to introduce this classic dish to friends and family who’ve never tried it before.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and get ready to fall in love with this modern twist on a Southern classic. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!

Discover more desserts in our Dessert collection, where you will find choices and recipes.