Indulge in the creamy, nostalgic comfort of Pearl Tapioca Pudding, a classic dessert that combines velvety textures with rich flavors. This homemade recipe uses small pearl tapioca, which is soaked and gently simmered until perfectly tender, then blended with whole milk, heavy cream, and just a touch of sweetness from granulated sugar. The addition of tempered egg yolks lends a luscious custard-like consistency, while a splash of vanilla extract adds a fragrant finish. Ready in under an hour, this pudding is incredibly versatileβserve it warm for cozy evenings or chilled as a refreshing treat. Perfectly suited for fruit toppings or a dusting of cinnamon, this timeless delight is sure to please every palate.
Rinse the small pearl tapioca under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear, then let it drain completely.
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed tapioca and water. Let the tapioca pearls soak for 30 minutes to soften slightly.
After soaking, place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the water and tapioca to a gentle simmer. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the tapioca pearls become translucent and tender, but not mushy.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, and salt. Cook the mixture, stirring frequently, for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
In a separate small bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly temper the egg yolks by gradually adding a few tablespoons of the hot tapioca mixture into the yolks while whisking constantly.
Pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the tapioca, stirring constantly. Continue cooking over low heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the pudding thickens further and coats the back of a spoon.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Allow the pudding to cool slightly before transferring it to serving dishes. Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled as desired. Garnish with fresh fruit or a sprinkle of cinnamon if preferred.
Calories |
1503 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 64.7 g | 83% | |
| Saturated Fat | 36.3 g | 182% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 548 mg | 183% | |
| Sodium | 847 mg | 37% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 197.5 g | 72% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.1 g | 4% | |
| Total Sugars | 94.9 g | ||
| Protein | 21.6 g | 43% | |
| Vitamin D | 6.3 mcg | 31% | |
| Calcium | 699 mg | 54% | |
| Iron | 2.8 mg | 16% | |
| Potassium | 791 mg | 17% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.