Step 1

Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.

Step 2

Whisk in the flour and continue whisking until it browns just a little.

Step 3

Add sugar and salt. Stir it quickly so it doesn't burn or scorch.

Step 4

Add cocoa powder and stir.

Step 5

Add the boiling water and whisk continually until smooth.

Step 6

Add the milk and whisk again.

Step 7

Let the sauce get hot, but don't let it boil (unlike pudding). Keep whisking until it just starts to thicken. When you feel it getting thicker, or see just a few bubbles, remove it from the heat.

Step 8

Add the vanilla and stir to combine.

Step 9

Let it cool just a bit (sauce will continue to thicken as it cools).

Step 10

Pour the chocolate gravy over the top of the biscuit, pancakes, waffles, or eat by the spoonful. Enjoy!