The History of Chocolate Gravy in the South (+ A Classic Recipe)

If you grew up in the South there’s a good chance you’ve had chocolate gravy drizzled over a warm, buttery biscuit at least once in your life. And if you haven’t? Well, you’re in for a treat. Unlike the traditional savory gravies found on Southern breakfast tables, chocolate gravy is smooth, sweet, and indulgent, turning a simple biscuit into something truly special.

But where did this unique dish come from? How did a region known for sausage gravy and red-eye gravy embrace a chocolate-based sauce for breakfast? Let’s dig into the rich history of chocolate gravy before diving into a classic recipe you can make at home.

The Origins of Chocolate Gravy

Chocolate gravy’s exact origins are a bit of a mystery, but food historians trace its roots back to the Appalachian and Ozark regions, where home cooks made the most of pantry staples like cocoa powder, flour, sugar, and milk. Unlike traditional gravies thickened with meat drippings, this sweet version likely emerged as a special treat when cocoa became more accessible.

Some theories suggest that chocolate gravy was inspired by Spanish and Mexican influences. Early Spanish settlers in the South were known for making chocolate-based sauces, such as mole, which could have influenced Southern cooks. Over time, the idea of a simple chocolate sauce thickened into a breakfast staple, perfectly paired with the region’s beloved biscuits.

While chocolate was once a rare and expensive ingredient, the early 20th century saw cocoa powder become more affordable, making chocolate gravy a popular addition to Southern kitchens. For many families, it was a Sunday morning tradition or a special treat when there was a little extra sugar and cocoa in the pantry.

Why Chocolate Gravy Became a Southern Classic

There’s something deeply comforting about chocolate gravy. It’s rich but not overly sweet, smooth yet thick enough to coat a biscuit perfectly. Unlike traditional breakfast gravies, which lean savory, chocolate gravy brings a dessert-like element to the morning table, making it feel like a special occasion—even on an ordinary day.

For many Southern families, chocolate gravy became a handed-down tradition, with grandmothers and great-grandmothers passing the recipe along to new generations. Today, it’s a nostalgic dish that reminds people of childhood breakfasts at grandma’s house or cozy weekend mornings spent around the kitchen table.

If you’ve never had chocolate gravy before, now’s your chance to try it for yourself. It’s easy to make with simple pantry ingredients, and once you taste it, you might just find yourself making it a new tradition in your home.

Bringing Back a Sweet Southern Tradition

Chocolate gravy might not be as widely known as sausage gravy, but for those who grew up with it, it’s a taste of home. Whether you’re looking to revisit a childhood favorite or try it for the first time, this simple and delicious recipe is the perfect way to bring a little Southern nostalgia to your breakfast table.

Have you ever had chocolate gravy before? Do you have a family recipe that’s been passed down? Share your memories (or your favorite way to eat it) in the comments—I’d love to hear your chocolate gravy stories!

Don’t want to make it at home? Here’s 3 great places to visit!

• Cathy’s Corner in Siloam Springs
• The Skycrest Restaurant at Mt. Magazine State Park (in their breakfast buffet, not on regular menu)
• The Ozark Cafe in Jasper
• Dan’s I-30 Diner in Benton
• Local Flavor in Eureka Springs
• Country Kitchen in Kensett, outside of Searcy

Sources:

• Where is Chocolate Gravy from?
• Did Chocolate Gravy Originate Arkansas?
• What is Chocolate Gravy?
• Chocolate Gravy History
• When was Chocolate Gravy invented?