Welcome to our delicious dessert corner! Today, we’re sharing a recipe for creamy homemade Tapioca Pudding. This classic dessert is rich, creamy, and has the perfect texture from the small pearl tapioca. It’s a comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
- ½ cup small pearl tapioca
- 4 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- ¾ cup white sugar
- 3 eggs
- ¾ cup additional white sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Soak the Tapioca
- Soak the Tapioca: Place the small pearl tapioca in a bowl and cover with water. Allow it to soak for at least 30 minutes, then drain.
Step 2: Cook the Tapioca
- Heat the Milk and Sugar: In a medium saucepan, combine the milk and ¾ cup of white sugar. Cook over medium heat until the mixture is hot but not boiling, stirring occasionally.
- Add the Tapioca: Stir in the drained tapioca pearls. Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the tapioca pearls are translucent and the mixture thickens. This should take about 15-20 minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture
- Separate the Eggs: Separate the egg yolks from the whites. In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and the additional ¾ cup of white sugar until well combined.
- Temper the Eggs: Gradually add about 1 cup of the hot tapioca mixture to the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from curdling.
Step 4: Combine and Cook
- Combine Mixtures: Pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining tapioca mixture. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the pudding thickens further, about 5-10 minutes. Do not let it boil.
- Add Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- Chill the Pudding: Transfer the pudding to a bowl or individual serving dishes. Cover with plastic wrap, placing the wrap directly on the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Serve: Serve the tapioca pudding chilled. You can enjoy it plain or with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Consistency: If you prefer a thicker pudding, you can cook the tapioca for a few extra minutes. For a thinner pudding, reduce the cooking time slightly.
- Flavor Variations: You can add a splash of almond extract or a sprinkle of nutmeg for a different flavor profile. Mixing in some fresh fruit or fruit compote can also add a refreshing twist.
- Stirring: Make sure to stir the pudding frequently while cooking to prevent the tapioca pearls from sticking to the bottom of the pan and to ensure an even texture.
Variations
Dairy-Free Version
To make a dairy-free tapioca pudding, substitute the milk with your favorite plant-based milk, such as almond milk, coconut milk, or soy milk. Ensure that the plant-based milk is unsweetened to control the sweetness of the pudding.
Low-Sugar Version
For a lower sugar version, reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe or use a sugar substitute that measures like sugar. You can also use honey or maple syrup to sweeten the pudding naturally.
Egg-Free Version
If you need an egg-free version, you can replace the eggs with a mixture of cornstarch and water. For each egg, use 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water. This will help thicken the pudding without the use of eggs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use instant tapioca?
While this recipe calls for small pearl tapioca, you can use instant tapioca if that’s what you have on hand. Adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, as instant tapioca cooks much faster.
How long does tapioca pudding last?
Tapioca pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to cover it tightly to prevent it from absorbing any fridge odors.
Can I freeze tapioca pudding?
Yes, you can freeze tapioca pudding. Place the cooled pudding in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
What if my pudding is too thick?
If your pudding is too thick, you can thin it out by stirring in a little bit of milk until you reach the desired consistency.
Can I add other flavors to the pudding?
Absolutely! You can customize your tapioca pudding by adding flavors such as chocolate, coffee, or even matcha. Simply mix in the desired flavorings along with the vanilla extract.
Homemade Tapioca Pudding is a classic dessert that’s rich, creamy, and full of nostalgic flavors. Whether you enjoy it plain or with your favorite toppings, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds. Try the variations for a unique twist, and don’t forget to share your pudding creations with us. Enjoy!
