This creamy and delicious Tapioca Pudding brings back memories of grandma’s kitchen, where simple ingredients and love turned into comforting desserts. With its smooth texture and rich vanilla flavor, this recipe is both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Whether you enjoy it warm or chilled, this timeless dessert is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
1/2 cup small pearl tapioca
2 cups whole milk
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs, beaten
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Ground cinnamon or nutmeg (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Tapioca Pearls
Rinse the tapioca pearls under cold water to remove excess starch.
In a medium saucepan, soak the rinsed pearls in 1 cup of milk for about 30 minutes. This softens them and ensures even cooking.
2. Cook the Tapioca Mixture
After soaking, add the remaining 1 cup of milk, salt, and sugar to the saucepan. Stir to combine.
Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
Once it begins to gently simmer, reduce the heat to low and continue stirring for 10-15 minutes, or until the mixture thickens and the tapioca pearls turn translucent.
3. Temper the Eggs
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Take a few spoonfuls of the hot tapioca mixture and slowly whisk it into the beaten eggs to temper them. This prevents the eggs from scrambling.
Gradually add the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan, stirring constantly.
4. Final Cooking and Flavoring
Return the saucepan to medium-low heat and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously until the pudding thickens further.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract for a burst of flavor.
5. Cool and Serve
Pour the pudding into individual serving dishes or a large bowl. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes.
Cover the pudding with plastic wrap, ensuring the wrap touches the surface to prevent a skin from forming.
Refrigerate until cool and set, about 2 hours.
Serving Suggestions
Sprinkle with a dash of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for added warmth and flavor.
Top with fresh fruits like berries, sliced bananas, or a dollop of whipped cream for an elegant touch.
Enjoy it warm as a comforting treat on a chilly day or chilled as a refreshing dessert.
Tips for Success
Stir Constantly: Tapioca can stick to the bottom of the pan, so frequent stirring is key.
Temper the Eggs Carefully: Add the hot mixture slowly to the eggs to avoid curdling.
Customize Sweetness: Adjust the sugar to your preference for a less or more sweet pudding.
Why This Recipe is Special
This tapioca pudding recipe is a true classic, combining the simplicity of grandma’s cooking with timeless flavors. The creamy texture, enhanced by the sweetness of vanilla and a hint of spice, makes it a dessert worth savoring. It’s not just a dish—it’s a taste of nostalgia and comfort.
Enjoy this delightful pudding with your loved ones and create sweet memories of
your own!
