How to Make the Perfect Classic Tapioca Pudding
American · Easy · 30 min · 6 servings
This fun bubbly tapioca pudding is a kid friendly recipe that children love because of its unique chewy pearl texture that makes it exciting to eat. Parents love this classic stovetop pudding because it is simple to make and can be served warm or cold.
Why this recipe works
This Classic Tapioca Pudding recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 30 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 260 calories with 6g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 5 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 0.5 cup small tapioca pearls
- 3 cups whole milk
- 0.33 cup granulated sugar
- 2 whole large eggs beaten
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Soak the Tapioca
Soak small tapioca pearls in 1 cup of cold water for 30 minutes if using regular pearls. If using minute tapioca you can skip this step. Drain well before using.
Step 2: Cook Tapioca in Milk
Combine drained tapioca pearls, whole milk, and sugar in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat stirring frequently until the mixture comes to a gentle boil and tapioca becomes translucent, about 15 minutes.
Step 3: Temper and Add Eggs
Slowly add a ladle of the hot tapioca mixture into the beaten eggs while whisking constantly to temper them. Pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan while stirring and cook for 2 more minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Add Vanilla and Serve
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. The pudding will thicken further as it cools. Serve warm for a comforting dessert or pour into cups and refrigerate for 2 hours for a chilled pudding.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- whole milk → almond milk for a lighter dairy free version
- granulated sugar → honey for a more natural sweetener option
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Skipping the soaking step causing the tapioca pearls to remain hard in the center
- Adding eggs too quickly without tempering causing them to scramble in the hot pudding
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 260 calories, 6g protein, 38g carbs, 9g fat, 0g fiber.
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