Tapioca pudding is a timeless dessert that evokes feelings of nostalgia and comfort. Made with creamy milk, rich eggs, and the unique texture of tapioca pearls, this dessert is a delight for both young and old. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply to enjoy a sweet treat at home, tapioca pudding is sure to satisfy your cravings. Follow this easy recipe to create a creamy and delicious tapioca pudding.
Ingredients
- ½ cup small tapioca pearls
- 1 cup cool water
- 2 cups 2% milk or whole milk
- 1 cup half n half
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tapioca Pearls
- Soak the Tapioca Pearls: In a medium bowl, combine the ½ cup of small tapioca pearls with 1 cup of cool water. Let the pearls soak for about 30 minutes until they begin to soften and absorb some of the water. After soaking, drain any excess water.
Step 2: Cook the Tapioca
- Heat the Milk Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of milk, 1 cup of half n half, and ⅛ teaspoon of salt. Heat over medium heat until the mixture is warm but not boiling, stirring occasionally.
- Add the Tapioca Pearls: Add the soaked tapioca pearls to the warm milk mixture. Continue to cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture begins to simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes, or until the tapioca pearls become translucent and tender.
Step 3: Mix in the Sugar and Eggs
- Combine Sugar and Eggs: In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup of sugar and the 2 beaten eggs until well combined.
- Temper the Egg Mixture: Gradually add a small amount of the hot tapioca mixture to the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from curdling. Continue to add the hot mixture until the egg mixture is warmed through.
- Add the Egg Mixture to the Tapioca: Slowly pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining tapioca mixture, stirring constantly. Increase the heat to medium and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the pudding thickens.
Step 4: Add Flavor and Chill
- Add Vanilla Extract: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until well incorporated.
- Cool the Pudding: Pour the tapioca pudding into a serving bowl or individual dessert cups. Let it cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until chilled and set.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve: Serve the tapioca pudding chilled, either plain or with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor. Enjoy!
Cooking Notes
- Tapioca Pearls: Small tapioca pearls work best for this recipe. Ensure they are well-soaked to achieve the desired texture.
- Milk and Half n Half: Using a combination of milk and half n half gives the pudding a rich and creamy texture. You can substitute with all whole milk for a lighter version.
- Eggs: Be careful when tempering the egg mixture to avoid scrambling the eggs. Adding the hot mixture gradually helps to gently heat the eggs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use tapioca starch instead of tapioca pearls? A: Tapioca starch will not provide the same texture as tapioca pearls. For the classic texture of tapioca pudding, stick with small tapioca pearls.
Q: How should I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover tapioca pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving if it thickens too much.
Q: Can I make this pudding dairy-free? A: Yes, you can substitute the milk and half n half with non-dairy alternatives like almond milk or coconut milk. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor might slightly differ.
Q: Can I add other flavors to this pudding? A: Absolutely! You can add a dash of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a splash of your favorite liqueur for a unique twist on the classic tapioca pudding.
Keto/Low Carb Version
To make a keto or low-carb version of this recipe, substitute the sugar with a low-carb sweetener like erythritol or stevia. Use unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk in place of regular milk and half n half. Ensure the other ingredients are also low in carbohydrates.
Tapioca pudding is a comforting dessert that brings back cherished memories with each bite. Its creamy texture and delightful flavor make it a favorite for many. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or a quiet evening at home, this tapioca pudding recipe is sure to please.
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