Creamy Homemade Tapioca Pudding: A Quick and Easy Delight
This creamy homemade tapioca pudding recipe is so quick and easy. It tastes so much better than store-bought without any artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. This American classic dessert brings comfort and nostalgia to your table, with a rich, creamy texture and a delicate sweetness that’s perfect for any occasion.
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: homemade tapioca pudding, how to make tapioca pudding, tapioca pudding recipe, what is tapioca pudding
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 234 kcal
Author: Beth Pierce
Ingredients
- ½ cup small tapioca pearls
- 1 cup cool water
- 2 cups 2% milk or whole milk
- 1 cup half and half
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Soak the Tapioca
Soak the pearl tapioca in cool water for 30-40 minutes. Drain any unabsorbed water from the tapioca.
2. Cook the Tapioca Mixture
Combine the tapioca, milk, half and half, and salt in a saucepan. Bring to a low simmer over medium heat, stirring almost constantly. Reduce the heat to low and slowly add the sugar, stirring constantly. Cook until the pearls are plumped and the pudding has slightly thickened, stirring constantly, for approximately 5-7 minutes. Be sure to scrape the bottom of the pan to prevent sticking.
3. Temper the Eggs
Remove the tapioca from the heat. Using a large spoon, add 2-3 tablespoons of the hot tapioca mixture to the beaten eggs in a small bowl and whisk vigorously to combine. Do this several times to ensure that the beaten eggs warm gradually, preventing them from scrambling.
4. Combine the Mixtures
Return the pan to medium-low heat and slowly add the egg mixture. Cook (but do not boil) until thickened to pudding consistency, stirring constantly, for approximately 3-5 minutes. Continue to scrape the bottom of the pan to prevent burning.
5. Add Vanilla and Cool
Remove from the heat. Wait 1-2 minutes and stir in the vanilla extract. Continue to stir frequently while it cools to prevent a skin from forming. Serve warm or cover with plastic wrap to further prevent a skin from forming.
Tips for Perfect Tapioca Pudding
- Constant Stirring: Ensure you stir constantly to prevent the tapioca from sticking to the bottom of the pan and to avoid lumps.
- Temperature Control: Be careful not to boil the mixture after adding the eggs. This will prevent the eggs from curdling and ensure a smooth texture.
- Preventing Skin Formation: Stir frequently while cooling or cover the surface of the pudding directly with plastic wrap to avoid a skin forming on top.
Variations
- Chocolate Tapioca Pudding: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the milk mixture for a rich chocolate flavor.
- Coconut Tapioca Pudding: Replace half the milk with coconut milk and top with toasted coconut flakes for a tropical twist.
- Fruity Tapioca Pudding: Stir in fresh berries or fruit preserves once the pudding has cooled for a burst of flavor and color.
FAQs
What is Tapioca Pudding?
Tapioca pudding is a classic dessert made from tapioca pearls, milk, sugar, and eggs. It has a creamy texture with chewy pearls throughout, making it a delightful treat.
How Long Does Tapioca Pudding Last?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, tapioca pudding will last for up to 5 days. Stir well before serving.
Can I Use Non-Dairy Milk?
Yes, you can substitute non-dairy milk like almond, soy, or coconut milk. However, the texture and flavor might vary slightly from the traditional version.
Why Did My Tapioca Pudding Turn Out Runny?
If your pudding is runny, it may not have cooked long enough to allow the tapioca pearls to release enough starch. Ensure you cook it until the mixture thickens and the pearls are fully cooked.
Can I Make Tapioca Pudding Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Tapioca pudding can be made a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and give it a good stir before serving.
Enjoy the nostalgic comfort of creamy homemade tapioca pudding with this easy-to-follow recipe. It’s a perfect dessert for any occasion, bringing a touch of homemade goodness to your table.